1968 MG Midget Tires

The 1968 MG Midget uses a 145R13 radial tire. That size appears on the Base model as well, so the primary fitment is consistent across the covered version of the car rather than split among different tire sizes.

That means the real selection process starts after the size is confirmed. A buyer can focus on choosing among the available 145R13 radials by comparing tire series, brand, and wheel compatibility details instead of trying to sort out multiple original fitments. If the car has been modified over the years, checking the actual wheel and tire setup on the vehicle is still worthwhile before replacing anything.

The 1968 MG Midget uses a 13-inch rim with its 145R13 tire size. The tire size itself confirms that wheel diameter, since the final number in 145R13 refers to the rim diameter in inches.

Wheel diameter is only part of the fitment picture, especially on a small British sports car. Before choosing a replacement tire, it is smart to verify that the wheels on the car are still the expected 13-inch size and to check wheel width as well. One available 145R13 radial includes a stated rim-width range of 4.00 to 5.00 inches, which is a useful benchmark when confirming compatibility.

145R13 is a Euro-metric radial size. The 145 refers to the tire’s nominal section width in millimeters, the R identifies radial construction, and the 13 indicates the wheel diameter in inches.

Because this older metric format does not print an aspect ratio in the size code, modern buyers sometimes expect another number that is not there. On a 1968 MG Midget, the key point is that 145R13 is the correct sizing convention for the car’s primary fitment. Once that is confirmed, the next step is comparing the available tires within that same size instead of substituting a different format without checking dimensions and wheel suitability.

Start with the correct size, which is 145R13, and then compare the available radials by construction details, brand, tire series, and wheel compatibility. For this MG, staying within the proper narrow tire format helps preserve the car’s intended proportions and steering feel.

The best choice depends on how the car is used and presented. A restoration-oriented owner may care most about a traditional blackwall radial with a period-style look, while a regular driver may pay closer attention to rim-width specification, weight, or load information where stated. Checking the actual wheel dimensions on the car is especially worthwhile before committing to one 145R13 option over another.

The available 145R13 tires for the 1968 MG Midget use a blackwall sidewall style. That keeps the visual presentation simple and appropriate for a small sports car where tire appearance should not overpower the car’s compact proportions.

Since the sidewall treatment does not vary here, selection comes down to the differences between the available radial tires themselves. Tire series, brand, and fitment-related specifications become the important comparison points. For an owner aiming at a traditional look, blackwall also makes it easier to keep the emphasis on the Midget’s lightweight, understated British sports car character rather than on decorative sidewall treatment.

Michelin and Firestone both offer 145R13 radial tires for the 1968 MG Midget. The available tire series include the Michelin XAS-FF and the Firestone F560 Radial, giving buyers more than one approach within the same correct size.

Brand choice should be treated as part of a broader fitment decision rather than a ranking exercise. It helps to compare the tire series, stated rim-width range where available, load information where shown, and the overall presentation you want on the car. Because the MG Midget is sensitive to tire size and wheel match, confirming the actual wheel setup matters more than choosing a brand name on its own.

A period-style approach for a 1968 MG Midget starts with the correct 145R13 radial size on a 13-inch rim. Keeping the proper narrow Euro-metric radial format helps the car retain the look and proportion that suit a late-1960s British sports car.

From there, the decision is more about presentation and use than about changing fitment. A blackwall radial keeps the appearance restrained and traditional, while the choice between available tire series can reflect whether the car is aimed more toward restoration-minded display or regular road use. If exact originality matters at a high level, marque references and vehicle-specific historical documentation are still worth consulting.

Yes, correct tire fitment matters on a 1968 MG Midget because the car’s small size makes tire proportion especially noticeable. Using the proper 145R13 radial size helps maintain the balanced look of the car and avoids a replacement tire that appears visually oversized or out of character.

Appearance is only part of the issue. Tire size also affects wheel compatibility and the relationship between the tire and the car’s fenders and suspension. On a restoration-oriented Midget, sticking with the right size and a traditional blackwall presentation usually produces a more convincing result than chasing a modern look. Any car with changed wheels or altered ride height deserves an extra fitment check before final selection.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1968 MG Midget even when the correct stock size is 145R13. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, altered suspension height, or body and fender work can all change how much room the tire has.

That matters because a small sports car has limited clearance compared with larger classics. If the Midget has non-stock wheels, verify the actual rim diameter and width before choosing a tire, and check steering and fender clearance once installed. Even when staying with 145R13, the vehicle’s current setup should guide the final fitment decision rather than assuming every modified car still matches original conditions.

Before putting a 1968 MG Midget back on the road with new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, confirm the wheel hardware is in good condition, and make sure the tires are inflated properly. It is also wise to look over suspension and steering components that can affect how a lightweight car tracks and responds.

A short test drive should be paired with a careful clearance check at full steering lock and through normal suspension movement. After the first miles, recheck tire pressure and look for any signs of rubbing, uneven contact, or air loss. Because collector cars often sit for long periods, it also helps to inspect older spare tires and make sure the rest of the car is road-ready before a longer outing.

145R13 tires on a collector 1968 MG Midget should be maintained with regular pressure checks, routine visual inspection, and careful storage habits. Pay attention to tread condition, sidewall cracking, bulges, cuts, and any sign that one tire is losing air faster than the others.

Collector cars often age their tires through time and storage as much as through mileage. Keeping the MG out of prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone-producing equipment can help preserve the tires between drives. It also helps to inspect the tires before every outing rather than assuming low mileage means low risk. On a light, responsive car like the Midget, tire condition has an immediate effect on confidence and drivability.