1968 BMW 2000 Tires

The 1968 BMW 2000 uses two primary tire sizes: 695-14 in bias-ply construction and 175R14 in radial construction. Both sizes are associated with the car and both use a 14-inch rim, so the main difference is not wheel diameter but the tire format and construction style.

That means the first decision is whether the car should keep a period-style bias-ply look or move to a radial-size presentation. Once that choice is made, the next step is confirming wheel width, overall tire dimensions, and clearance, especially if the car has replacement wheels or suspension changes that differ from a stock-style setup.

The tire sizes used on the 1968 BMW 2000 are built for a 14-inch rim. That applies to both the 695-14 bias-ply size and the 175R14 radial size, so wheel diameter stays consistent even though the sizing systems are different.

Rim diameter alone does not settle the full fitment question, because wheel width still matters when choosing among available tires or considering a radial equivalent. It is smart to confirm the actual wheel on the car, especially if it has been changed over the years, before selecting between bias-ply, Euro-metric radial, or P-metric radial alternatives.

The covered 1968 BMW 2000 Tilux, C, CA and CS sub-models share the same tire-size choices: 175R14 in radial construction and 695-14 in bias-ply construction. In practical terms, the fitment path remains consistent across that sub-model group rather than changing from one version to another.

That simplifies the search, because the real choice becomes construction, appearance, and intended use instead of chasing a different size for each sub-model. Even so, it is still worth checking the actual wheels on the car, since older BMWs are often restored or modified and wheel width can affect which tire option makes the most sense.

695-14 is a bias-ply tire size on the 1968 BMW 2000. It uses the older numeric sizing system and is the more traditional fitment style for buyers who want a vintage construction and a sidewall presentation closer to many period-oriented restoration themes.

Choosing 695-14 usually places the emphasis on traditional appearance, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual redline, and raised white letter options available depending on the tire series. A buyer considering a move away from bias-ply should compare not just rim diameter but also wheel width, overall dimensions, and the look they want the finished car to carry.

Radial equivalents for 695-14 include 175R14 as an 80-series metric radial, P185/75R14 as a P-metric 75-series radial, and P195/70R14 as a P-metric 70-series radial. These are comparison sizes for buyers evaluating a radial alternative to the original-style bias-ply fitment.

Each equivalent uses the same general 14-inch wheel diameter family, but the sizing conventions and profile families differ. A recommended rim-width range of 4 to 6 inches is associated with the equivalent comparison, and the final choice should still be checked against the car’s actual wheel width, fender clearance, and suspension condition before making the switch.

That depends on what matters most to the car’s owner. The 1968 BMW 2000 supports both 695-14 bias-ply and 175R14 radial fitment, so the decision usually comes down to whether the priority is a more period-style tire presentation or a radial-format setup on the same 14-inch rim.

Bias-ply tires often make more sense for restoration-oriented appearance, while radial choices appeal to owners who want a more modern tire construction within the car’s size range. The sensible approach is to check wheel width, compare the available sidewall styles and tire series, and make sure the chosen size suits the car’s actual setup rather than assuming every alternative behaves the same.

Start with the fact that 695-14 is the bias-ply choice for a 1968 BMW 2000, so selecting within that size is mainly about appearance, tire series, and wheel compatibility rather than choosing between different diameters. Available options include blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual redline, and raised white letter styles from BFGoodrich, US Royal, and Goodyear.

After the appearance decision, compare the tire’s intended presentation against the car’s overall build and inspect the wheel width before final selection. Some 695-14 products are tied to 5.00 to 6.00-inch rims, while others are built around 5 or 5.5-inch applications, so wheel dimensions matter even when the size code stays the same.

The 1968 BMW 2000 has a broad sidewall range depending on size and construction. Radial 175R14 options are offered as blackwalls, while the 695-14 bias-ply size adds blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual redline, raised white letter, and raised-white-letter-blue-streak presentations.

That variety allows the tire to shape the car’s visual character as much as its fitment. A cleaner touring look may point toward blackwall, while whitewall or redline choices lean more restoration-oriented, and the Goodyear Blue Streak styles create a more competition-influenced appearance. The best choice depends on the intended period feel rather than the assumption that one style suits every 2000.

Tires for the 1968 BMW 2000 are available from Michelin, Vredestein, BFGoodrich, US Royal, and Goodyear. Michelin and Vredestein cover the 175R14 radial side, while BFGoodrich, US Royal, and Goodyear provide multiple 695-14 bias-ply choices across several sidewall treatments and tire series.

Brand selection should follow the tire plan rather than lead it. A buyer first needs to decide between radial and bias-ply construction, then compare the sidewall style, tire series, and wheel-width compatibility that match the car’s intended look and use. That keeps the search focused on the right fitment path instead of treating every brand option as interchangeable.

For a period-style 1968 BMW 2000, the 695-14 bias-ply size is the natural starting point. It keeps the car in a vintage sizing and construction format, and it opens the door to traditional visual treatments such as blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual redline, and certain raised white letter presentations.

The right choice within that size depends on how the rest of the car is being finished. A restrained sedan restoration may call for a simpler sidewall, while a more expressive period look may point toward redline or whitewall treatment. When exact originality matters, it is wise to compare the tire choice against marque-specific historical references for the particular car.

Tire construction changes the visual character of a restored 1968 BMW 2000 more than many buyers expect. A 695-14 bias-ply tire gives the car a more traditional vintage presentation, while a 175R14 radial creates a more modern-looking tire profile even though it still fits the same 14-inch wheel diameter.

That difference matters because the tire is a large part of the car’s stance and side view. Buyers restoring for period flavor often begin with the bias-ply path, while those planning regular road use may still prefer a radial and accept the visual shift. Matching the tire’s look to the car’s trim, wheels, and intended era is usually the best approach.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1968 BMW 2000 even when the tire size itself is correct. Changes such as aftermarket wheels, different wheel widths, altered offset, suspension work, or body modifications can all influence how a 695-14 or 175R14 tire sits in the wheel opening.

That is why a modified car should be checked at the wheel rather than judged by size code alone. Steering clearance, fender clearance, and the relationship between the tire and the suspension all deserve attention, especially when moving from bias-ply to radial or considering one of the P-metric equivalent sizes for the original 695-14 fitment.

Before driving a 1968 BMW 2000 on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and width, make sure the tires seat properly, and confirm there is no interference at the fenders, steering, or suspension. It is also worth checking basic vehicle condition, including alignment-related wear issues and any signs of loose or aging wheel hardware.

Older collector cars benefit from a careful once-over even when the tires are new. Verify inflation pressure, recheck for any air loss after initial use, and look at tread and sidewalls after the first few drives for rubbing or unusual wear. Those steps matter whether the car is running a period-style 695-14 bias-ply tire or a 175R14 radial.

Collector-car tires on a 1968 BMW 2000 should be maintained with regular pressure checks, periodic visual inspection, and attention to age-related condition even if the car is driven sparingly. Both 695-14 bias-ply and 175R14 radial tires should be watched for cracking, bulges, cuts, irregular wear, and gradual air loss.

Storage conditions matter almost as much as mileage on a low-use BMW. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps protect the tires, and occasional movement can reduce flat spotting concerns during long storage periods. A fresh inspection before tours or seasonal driving is a sensible habit for any collector-oriented setup.