1969 Simca 1118 Tires

A 1969 Simca 1118 uses either a 145R13 radial tire or a 520-13 bias-ply tire. Both sizes are associated with the model and both use a 13-inch rim, so the choice is not only about diameter but also about construction and the type of presentation you want on the car.

The practical next step is to confirm what is already on the car, especially if it has older wheels or has been changed over time. Matching the existing wheel width, checking clearance, and deciding whether to keep a radial or bias-ply setup will usually narrow the choice more effectively than size alone.

The 1969 Simca 1118 uses a 13-inch rim with both of its primary tire sizes, 145R13 and 520-13. That shared rim diameter makes wheel diameter confirmation simple, but it does not mean every 13-inch tire is suitable, because the two sizes represent different sizing systems and different constructions.

Rim diameter is only the first checkpoint. Wheel width still matters, especially when comparing a narrow bias-ply tire to a radial equivalent or to a 145R13 radial. Looking at the actual wheel on the car before selecting a tire helps avoid problems with tire shape, bead seating, and overall fitment.

The 1969 Simca 1118 Sedans share the same fitment range as the model core, with 145R13 radial and 520-13 bias-ply sizes both applying. That means sedan owners are choosing between two established tire formats rather than sorting through several rim diameters or multiple unrelated size families.

Even with shared fitment, the right selection still depends on the car’s current wheels and goals. A sedan kept close to a period-style appearance may lean toward 520-13, while a car already set up around radial behavior and Euro-style sizing may be better matched to 145R13.

On the 1969 Simca 1118, 520-13 is a bias-ply tire size. It uses the older numeric sizing format common to many vintage vehicles, and it is separate from the 145R13 radial fitment that also appears on this model.

That distinction matters because the tire’s construction affects both the look of the car and the setup checks you should make before changing anything. Moving away from a 520-13 bias-ply size toward a radial alternative calls for attention to wheel width, tire dimensions, and available clearance around the suspension and body.

Radial equivalents for 520-13 include 155R13, P155/75R13, and P155/70R13. These represent three different radial-format approaches: an 80-series metric radial, a P-metric 75-series radial, and a lower-profile P-metric 70-series radial.

Each one can be considered as an alternative to the original bias-ply size, but they should not be treated as automatic swaps. A recommended rim-width range of 4 to 5 inches applies to the equivalent group, and it is smart to compare the actual wheel, tire dimensions, and clearance at full steering travel before converting.

A 1969 Simca 1118 can be equipped in either direction within its established fitment range: 520-13 for a bias-ply setup or 145R13 for a radial setup, with radial equivalents also available for 520-13. The better choice depends on whether the priority is period-style appearance, existing wheel setup, or a radial-format replacement path.

Owners trying to preserve a traditional look often stay with the bias-ply size, especially when whitewall presentation matters. Drivers considering radial alternatives should check wheel width and vehicle clearance carefully, since matching rim diameter alone does not settle the question of overall fit or compatibility.

Choosing a 520-13 tire for a 1969 Simca 1118 starts with confirming that the car is staying with its bias-ply fitment. From there, the meaningful differences are sidewall appearance, tire series, brand, and wheel compatibility, since 520-13 is available in both blackwall and whitewall styles.

A Firestone Classic Bias Ply tire gives one type of traditional presentation, while Premium Sport Lowrider options add narrow whitewall variations that may suit a different visual direction. It also helps to compare the actual rim width on the car, because some 520-13 products include narrower wheel-width guidance than others.

1969 Simca 1118 tires are available in several sidewall styles, depending on size and construction. The 145R13 radial products are blackwall, while 520-13 bias-ply options include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall choices.

That makes sidewall style an important part of the decision, especially on a small late-1960s European car where tire appearance is highly visible. Blackwall tends to preserve a simpler radial or utility look, while narrow and wide whitewalls shift the car toward a more stylized or restoration-oriented presentation.

Michelin, Firestone, and Premium Sport all offer tires for the 1969 Simca 1118 within its applicable sizes. Michelin appears in the 145R13 radial fitment, Firestone covers both 145R13 radial and 520-13 bias-ply offerings, and Premium Sport provides several 520-13 bias-ply options.

Brand is only one part of the decision. It is also worth comparing the construction type you want, the sidewall treatment that suits the car, and any wheel-width or load details attached to the individual tire. Those factors usually matter more than the name on the sidewall when narrowing choices.

For a period-style 1969 Simca 1118, the 520-13 bias-ply size is the most traditional starting point. It keeps the car in an older sizing and construction format, and it opens up visual choices that include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall versions.

The best appearance choice depends on how the car is being finished and what visual character you want it to carry. If exact originality matters, compare your selection against marque-specific references or historical documentation, since a tire that looks right for the era is not automatically correct for every restored example.

Tire construction changes the visual character of a restored 1969 Simca 1118 more than many owners expect. A 520-13 bias-ply tire gives the car a more traditional vintage presentation, while a 145R13 radial introduces a more modern radial-format look that still fits the car’s compact European proportions.

Sidewall style deepens that effect. A blackwall radial keeps the appearance restrained, while whitewall bias-ply tires create a more decorative or restoration-oriented statement. Looking at the car’s wheels, stance, and intended finish as a whole usually leads to a better appearance decision than focusing on size alone.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1969 Simca 1118 even when the tire size itself is correct. Changes such as aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension work, ride-height adjustments, or body repairs can all influence how a 145R13 or 520-13 tire sits and clears the car.

That is especially important when moving between bias-ply and radial setups, because the overall tire shape and wheel requirements may not match the car’s current configuration. Checking steering clearance, wheel dimensions, and space at the fender and suspension before mounting tires helps prevent expensive mistakes.

Before driving a 1969 Simca 1118 on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage or corrosion, confirm the tire is seated properly, and verify inflation pressure. It is also smart to look over the suspension and steering for looseness or wear, since fresh tires can make existing problems more noticeable.

A short, careful test drive is the best next step. Pay attention to steering feel, rubbing at full lock, unusual vibration, and whether the car tracks consistently. On an older compact car, tire fitment and chassis condition work together, so a clean installation should always be followed by a practical road check.

520-13 tires on a collector 1969 Simca 1118 should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and careful storage habits. Since collector cars often sit for long periods, sidewall cracking, flat spotting, air loss, cuts, and age-related hardening deserve as much attention as remaining tread depth.

Driving the car occasionally helps, but storage conditions matter just as much. Keeping the Simca away from prolonged sunlight, moisture, and ozone sources can help preserve the tires’ condition over time. Before any longer outing, inspect the tread and sidewalls closely and confirm the car still has adequate clearance and stable handling.