1967 Austin A 40 Tires

A 1967 Austin A 40 uses two primary tire sizes: 145R13 in radial construction and 520-13 in bias-ply construction. Both sizes are associated with the Austin A 40 Base and both use a 13-inch rim diameter, so the main difference is the tire’s sizing system and construction rather than the wheel diameter.

That means the first choice is not simply size, but whether the car should stay with a traditional bias-ply look or move to a radial format. It is wise to confirm the actual wheel width on the car, especially if the wheels are not original or the car has been modified over time.

The 1967 Austin A 40 uses a 13-inch rim with both of its primary tire sizes. The radial 145R13 and the bias-ply 520-13 are both built around that same rim diameter, so the key wheel measurement does not change when comparing those two fitment directions.

Rim diameter is only part of the picture, though, because wheel width also affects compatibility. Before changing from one tire type to another, check the actual wheel width stamped on the rim or measure it, then compare that measurement with the tire’s intended rim-width range where available.

On a 1967 Austin A 40, 520-13 is a numeric bias-ply size. The 5.20 figure refers to the tire’s nominal section width in inches, and the 13 indicates the wheel diameter. It uses an older sizing system that is common on vintage vehicles and differs from modern metric radial sizing.

Understanding that format helps when comparing it to radial alternatives, because a metric radial may look similar in overall purpose while being labeled very differently. Anyone replacing 520-13 should confirm wheel width, clearance, and the desired appearance before choosing between another bias-ply tire and a radial equivalent.

For the 1967 Austin A 40, 520-13 is a bias-ply tire size. It uses the older numeric sizing format and is offered in bias-ply construction with period-style sidewall choices that include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall depending on the product selected.

That matters because bias-ply and radial tires are not just different labels; they represent different construction types and often different visual character. Anyone keeping the car close to a traditional presentation may stay with 520-13, while a buyer considering a radial alternative should compare the wheel setup carefully before converting.

Radial equivalents for 520-13 include 155R13, P155/75R13, and P155/70R13. Those cover three different radial sizing approaches: an 80-series metric radial, a 75-series P-metric radial, and a 70-series P-metric radial, giving the 1967 Austin A 40 owner more than one way to interpret the original bias-ply size.

The practical difference is that these alternatives are not the same format, even though they serve as equivalents to the same primary size. A 4-5 inch rim-width range is associated with the equivalents, so it is smart to confirm wheel width, tire dimensions, and clearance before treating any one of them as the right choice.

Start by confirming the car’s actual wheel diameter and width, then compare those measurements to the radial size under consideration. For a 1967 Austin A 40 moving away from 520-13, the available radial equivalents include 155R13, P155/75R13, and P155/70R13, and the wheel should fall within the appropriate compatibility range.

The next step is checking physical fit on the car itself. Steering clearance, fender clearance, suspension condition, and any older wheel or suspension modifications can all affect results, even when the nominal tire size looks appropriate. That verification is especially important on a lightly modified or long-stored collector car.

The main decision is whether the 1967 Austin A 40 should run a 145R13 radial or a 520-13 bias-ply. From there, compare construction, sidewall appearance, wheel-width compatibility where stated, and practical details such as load specification and intended use rather than focusing only on the size label.

A car being restored for vintage presentation may point toward the bias-ply route, while a car intended for more frequent road use may push attention toward the radial format. It also helps to inspect the existing wheels first, since an older small car may have replacement rims that no longer match its original setup.

Sidewall choices for 1967 Austin A 40 tires include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall, depending on the tire size and product line. The 145R13 radial offerings are blackwall, while the 520-13 bias-ply choices open up the broader appearance range, including both narrow and wide whitewall treatments.

That makes sidewall style an important part of the decision, especially on a small British sedan where the tire is visually prominent. A blackwall tire tends to keep the look simple and restrained, while whitewall options give the car a more overtly period-style presentation without changing the basic 13-inch rim diameter.

Tires for the 1967 Austin A 40 are available from Michelin, Firestone, and Premium Sport. Michelin appears in the 145R13 radial size, Firestone offers both radial and bias-ply options, and Premium Sport is represented in the 520-13 bias-ply range with whitewall-focused offerings.

Brand is only one part of the comparison, so it helps to look at the tire series and sidewall treatment at the same time. A buyer comparing these choices should also note whether the tire is radial or bias-ply, since construction affects both the car’s presentation and the fitment checks worth making before installation.

For a period-style 1967 Austin A 40, the 520-13 bias-ply size is the most natural starting point because it uses the traditional numeric bias-ply format and is available in vintage-looking sidewall treatments. Blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall choices give the car several distinct presentation options within that classic construction type.

The exact appearance goal should guide the final choice. Some restorations call for a restrained blackwall look, while others benefit from a more decorative whitewall presentation. If exact originality matters beyond general period style, compare the tire choice against marque references, photographs, or restoration documentation for the specific car.

Tire construction changes the visual character of a restored 1967 Austin A 40 as much as it changes the fitment conversation. A 520-13 bias-ply keeps the car in a more traditional vintage format, while a 145R13 radial introduces a later-style metric marking and a more modern-looking tire presentation.

That difference is especially noticeable on compact cars with modest wheel openings and slim tire proportions. Owners building a restoration-oriented car often choose construction partly for the way the sidewall and overall profile support the vehicle’s era, then narrow the choice further by selecting blackwall or whitewall styling.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1967 Austin A 40 even when the tire size itself is correct. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, altered ride height, suspension work, or body repairs around the fender openings can all influence how either a 145R13 radial or a 520-13 bias-ply sits on the car.

That is why the actual car should be checked, not just the nominal size. Measure the wheels, inspect clearance at full steering lock, and look for any signs that the tire may come close to suspension or body components. Older collector cars often carry changes made many years after they first left the road.

Before driving a 1967 Austin A 40 on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, confirm the beads seat properly, and verify that the tire size matches the intended setup. It is also smart to check valve stems, make sure inflation is set appropriately for the chosen tire, and confirm that each wheel turns freely without rubbing.

A short slow-speed test can reveal issues before a longer drive. Listen for contact noises, watch for steering pull, and recheck air pressure after the first miles. On an older car, it also helps to inspect wheel bearings, suspension joints, and brakes so the new tires are not masking unrelated mechanical problems.

Tires on a collector 1967 Austin A 40 should be checked regularly for air loss, sidewall cracking, bulges, cuts, and uneven wear, even if the car is driven only occasionally. Low-use vintage cars often age their tires through time and storage conditions as much as through mileage, so visual inspection matters as much as tread depth.

Proper storage helps preserve both radial and bias-ply tires. Keep the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources such as electric motors or compressors, and move it occasionally to avoid long-term flat spotting. A pressure check before every drive is a sensible habit on any lightly used collector vehicle.