The 1968 Volvo 122 belongs to the final years of Volvo’s durable Amazon-based sedan and wagon line, a car known for practical engineering, clean Scandinavian styling, and long-distance road manners that still appeal to collectors. That matters at the tire level, because this model spans both radial and bias-ply fitments depending on sub-model and setup. The S Series uses 165R15 radial or 6.85-15 bias-ply sizing, while the S Wagon uses 640-15 or 7.35-15 bias-ply sizes on 15-inch rims. Available choices also include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall presentations, plus modern radial equivalents for 640-15. The right selection depends on preserving the car’s period feel, confirming the exact sub-model, and checking wheel compatibility before changing size or construction.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1968 Volvo 122
The 1968 Volvo 122 uses four primary tire sizes, and the correct choice depends on the exact sub-model and whether the car is set up for radial or bias-ply tires. All of these fitments use a 15-inch rim, so the first step is confirming whether the car is an S Series or S Wagon and then matching the tire size and construction to that configuration.
165R15 is a Euro-metric radial size in which 165 identifies the nominal section width in millimeters, R denotes radial construction, and 15 is the rim diameter in inches. On the 1968 Volvo 122, this size gives the S Series a true radial fitment on a 15-inch wheel. Available choices include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall styles from brands such as Coker Classic, American Classic, Firestone, BFGoodrich, Michelin, and Vredestein across several radial series. It is the size to evaluate when maintaining a radial-equipped S Series or comparing appearance-oriented radial options within the correct fitment.
6.85-15 is a numeric bias-ply size, with the leading number representing the tire’s nominal section width in inches and the final number indicating a 15-inch rim. For the 1968 Volvo 122, it serves as a vintage bias-ply fitment for the S Series rather than a modern metric radial format. Its practical appeal is preserving a traditional construction and period-style stance when the goal is to keep the car visually and dynamically closer to an earlier tire presentation. It should be considered by owners confirming an S Series setup that remains bias-ply rather than radial.
640-15 is another numeric bias-ply size, where 6.40 represents the nominal section width in inches and 15 identifies the wheel diameter. On the 1968 Volvo 122, this size applies to the S Wagon and carries a distinctly vintage tire format that suits restoration-minded buyers. Available products include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall versions from BFGoodrich, Firestone, Avon, and Excelsior across several classic bias-ply series. This size is especially important for wagon owners because it offers both traditional bias-ply choices and clearly defined modern radial-equivalent options that can be compared carefully.
7.35-15 is a numeric bias-ply size in which the first figure represents nominal section width and the final number indicates a 15-inch rim diameter. For the 1968 Volvo 122, this size is associated with the S Wagon and reflects a traditional bias-ply fitment rather than a radial conversion size. Its role is less about broad product variety and more about matching the wagon’s documented bias-ply sizing before any change in construction is considered. Wagon owners should confirm actual wheel dimensions and overall setup before moving away from this original-style size range.
Sub-model identification matters on the 1968 Volvo 122 because tire fitment is not the same across the covered versions. The S Series and S Wagon use different size groupings, so choosing tires starts with matching the car to the correct sub-model rather than assuming one 15-inch size covers every 122.
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1968 Volvo 122 S Series
The 1968 Volvo 122 S Series uses either a 165R15 radial or a 6.85-15 bias-ply tire. That gives the owner a clear construction choice, so the next step is deciding whether the car should retain its current setup or be matched to a more restoration-oriented or road-use-oriented tire style within that fitment.
The 1968 Volvo 122 S Wagon uses bias-ply sizing, with 640-15 and 7.35-15 associated with this sub-model. That makes wheel confirmation and size selection especially important, particularly for owners considering a traditional bias-ply appearance versus a radial-equivalent path tied specifically to 640-15.
Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1968 Volvo 122
The original 640-15 tire size has three radial-equivalent options available. Those are 175R15 as an 80-series metric radial, P175/75R15 as a 75-series P-metric radial, and P185/70R15 as a 70-series P-metric radial. Together they provide a range of modern sizing conventions and profiles relative to the vintage bias-ply format. A recommended rim-width range of 5 to 6 inches is associated with these equivalents, so wheel width, overall tire dimensions, and vehicle clearance should all be checked before converting.
Modern Radial Equivalents
175R15
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (640-15)
P175/75R15
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (640-15)
P185/70R15
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (640-15)
Important Considerations When Replacing Bias Ply With Radial
Compare overall diameter and section width carefully to ensure proper fit.
Verify recommended rim range (5-6 in) and load needs match your vehicle specifications.
Check fender clearance, steering clearance, and stance before installation.
Consider suspension condition and intended road use when choosing equivalents.
Important Fitment Notes
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Best 1968 Volvo 122 Tires for Sale
Available 1968 Volvo 122 tire choices span radial and bias-ply construction, with brands including Coker Classic, American Classic, Firestone, BFGoodrich, Michelin, Vredestein, Avon, and Excelsior. Depending on size, buyers can compare blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall styles across several classic tire series.
These FAQs focus on the tire decisions that matter most for a 1968 Volvo 122, including sub-model-specific sizing, 15-inch rim fitment, bias-ply versus radial choices, radial equivalents for 640-15, appearance options, and road-use checks for a collector-era Volvo.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1968 Volvo 122?
A 1968 Volvo 122 can use 165R15, 6.85-15, 640-15, or 7.35-15 depending on the sub-model and tire construction. The S Series uses 165R15 radial or 6.85-15 bias-ply sizing, while the S Wagon uses 640-15 or 7.35-15 bias-ply sizing. All of these fitments are built around a 15-inch rim.
The practical step is identifying the car as an S Series or S Wagon before selecting a tire. Once the sub-model is confirmed, match the tire to the existing wheel setup and decide whether the goal is a traditional bias-ply presentation, a radial-equipped road car, or a carefully checked radial-equivalent alternative where one is available.
What size rim does a 1968 Volvo 122 use?
The tire fitments associated with the 1968 Volvo 122 use a 15-inch rim. That rim diameter is shared across 165R15, 6.85-15, 640-15, and 7.35-15, so the wheel diameter remains consistent even though the tire formats and constructions differ by sub-model and application.
Rim diameter alone does not settle the whole fitment question. Wheel width still matters, especially when comparing radial and bias-ply choices or considering a radial equivalent for 640-15. It is smart to measure the actual wheel on the car, especially if the Volvo has been restored, modified, or fitted with replacement wheels over the years.
Why does the 1968 Volvo 122 have more than one tire size?
The 1968 Volvo 122 has more than one tire size because fitment varies by sub-model and construction type. The S Series is associated with a radial 165R15 or a bias-ply 6.85-15, while the S Wagon uses bias-ply sizes 640-15 and 7.35-15. Each size reflects a different tire format rather than a simple styling variation.
That means tire selection starts with the exact version of the car and the wheel setup it carries today. On an older Volvo, prior owners may have changed wheels or switched between bias-ply and radial tires, so checking the current wheel width, overall clearance, and the intended use of the car helps prevent choosing a size on assumption alone.
Bias-Ply & Radial Options
What radial tire sizes are equivalent to 640-15?
Radial equivalents for 640-15 include 175R15, P175/75R15, and P185/70R15. In that group, 175R15 is an 80-series metric radial, P175/75R15 is a 75-series P-metric radial, and P185/70R15 is a 70-series P-metric radial. A recommended rim-width range of 5 to 6 inches is associated with those equivalent sizes.
Those options give a wagon owner several ways to compare a modern radial format against the original bias-ply size. Even with the shared 15-inch rim diameter, the tire should still be checked against the car’s actual wheel width, fender and steering clearance, and overall setup before making a conversion from 640-15.
Should I use bias-ply or radial tires on a 1968 Volvo 122?
That depends on the exact 1968 Volvo 122 sub-model and the kind of driving or presentation the car is meant to have. The S Series can be set up with either a 165R15 radial or a 6.85-15 bias-ply, while the S Wagon uses bias-ply sizes and also has radial-equivalent choices tied to 640-15.
Bias-ply tires preserve a more traditional period-style look and feel, while radial choices can suit owners who want a more modern tire format where the fitment allows it. The key is not treating construction as a styling choice alone; wheel width, clearance, and the car’s current suspension and wheel setup should all be confirmed before changing from one construction type to another.
Is 165R15 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1968 Volvo 122?
165R15 is a radial tire size for the 1968 Volvo 122. It uses Euro-metric radial sizing, with 165 indicating nominal section width in millimeters, R identifying radial construction, and 15 marking the rim diameter in inches. On this Volvo, that size is associated with the 122 S Series.
That matters because 165R15 should not be confused with the car’s numeric bias-ply sizes. If the Volvo currently wears 165R15 tires, compare replacement options by sidewall style, brand, and rim-width specification within that radial size rather than assuming a bias-ply number on the same rim diameter will deliver the same fitment or driving presentation.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 1968 Volvo 122?
Start with the exact sub-model and correct primary size. A 1968 Volvo 122 S Series uses 165R15 radial or 6.85-15 bias-ply sizing, while the S Wagon uses 640-15 or 7.35-15 bias-ply sizing. After that, the important choices are construction type, wheel compatibility, sidewall appearance, and whether the goal is road use, restoration character, or a careful move toward a radial equivalent.
Product details can help narrow the field. Some sizes offer multiple brands, different tire series, and blackwall, narrow whitewall, or wide whitewall treatments, while others are more focused on preserving a traditional bias-ply format. Matching the tire to the car’s visual style and actual wheel dimensions usually matters more than simply choosing the broadest range of options.
What sidewall styles are available for 1968 Volvo 122 tires?
Sidewall choices for the 1968 Volvo 122 include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall, depending on tire size and product line. The 165R15 radial size offers all three presentations, and the 640-15 bias-ply size also includes blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall options across several brands and series.
That range gives an owner room to tune the car’s appearance without changing the basic fitment. A blackwall can keep the look understated, while narrow or wide whitewalls create a more restoration-oriented presentation. The right choice depends on the style of the individual car and the tire size being used, not just on what looks appealing in isolation.
What brands offer tires for the 1968 Volvo 122?
Brands available across the 1968 Volvo 122 fitments include Coker Classic, American Classic, Firestone, BFGoodrich, Michelin, Vredestein, Avon, and Excelsior. Brand availability depends on the tire size, with the 165R15 radial fitment carrying the broadest mix of choices and the 640-15 bias-ply fitment covering several traditional bias-ply brands and series.
Brand alone should not decide the tire. It makes more sense to compare within the correct size and construction first, then look at sidewall style, tire series, rim-width specification, and load figures where they are relevant to the car’s intended use. That approach keeps the decision centered on the Volvo’s fitment rather than on name recognition alone.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1968 Volvo 122?
A period-style 1968 Volvo 122 usually starts with choosing the correct size and construction for the exact sub-model. For an S Series, that may mean evaluating 6.85-15 bias-ply for a traditional presentation or staying with 165R15 if the car is being kept in a radial-equipped configuration. For an S Wagon, the period-style path centers on 640-15 or 7.35-15 bias-ply sizing.
Appearance should be considered alongside how the car is used. Bias-ply construction and classic sidewall treatments often preserve the most vintage visual character, while radial choices can shift the look even when the rim diameter stays the same. If exact originality matters, compare the car against marque references, restoration photos, or historical documentation for that specific configuration.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1968 Volvo 122?
Tire construction changes more than road feel on a restored 1968 Volvo 122; it also influences the car’s visual character. Numeric bias-ply sizes such as 6.85-15, 640-15, and 7.35-15 present the car in a more traditional vintage format, while 165R15 gives the S Series a radial look tied to a later tire-sizing convention.
Sidewall treatment then refines that presentation further. Blackwalls keep the car restrained, while narrow or wide whitewalls create a stronger period-style statement where those options exist. For a restoration-oriented build, construction and sidewall style should work together, since a correct-size tire can still change the finished look significantly if the visual theme does not match the car.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1968 Volvo 122?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1968 Volvo 122 even when the tire size appears correct on paper. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, suspension alterations, lowering, or bodywork changes can all influence how a 15-inch tire sits in the wheel opening and how much steering or fender clearance remains.
That is especially important on a collector car that may have changed hands several times. Before selecting new tires, inspect the actual wheels on the car and compare them to the intended tire’s rim-width requirements. Clearance at full steering lock and through suspension movement should also be checked, particularly when changing between bias-ply sizing and radial sizing.
What should I inspect before driving a 1968 Volvo 122 on new tires?
Before driving a 1968 Volvo 122 on new tires, inspect the wheels, valve stems, and basic chassis condition along with the tires themselves. Confirm proper inflation, make sure the bead is seated correctly, and look for any interference at the fenders, suspension, or steering components. On an older car, wheel condition matters just as much as the tire choice.
A short initial road test is a sensible next step. Listen for rubbing, note any unusual pull or vibration, and recheck pressure after the first drive. It is also worth confirming lug hardware, alignment condition, and brake or suspension wear, since fresh tires can reveal issues that were masked by older, hardened, or mismatched rubber.
How should tires on a collector 1968 Volvo 122 be maintained?
Tires on a collector 1968 Volvo 122 should be inspected regularly for pressure loss, tread wear, cracking, bulges, cuts, and signs of age-related hardening. Because many collector cars spend long periods parked, condition can deteriorate even when mileage stays low. That makes visual inspection and pressure checks especially important between drives rather than only at service intervals.
Storage conditions also matter. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone-producing equipment can help preserve the tires. Rolling the car periodically or avoiding long-term static load on one spot can also be beneficial. Any tire showing structural damage, severe weathering, or persistent air loss deserves closer evaluation before road use.
