1970 Sunbeam Alpine Tires

The 1970 Sunbeam Alpine uses two primary tire sizes: 165R13 in radial construction and 600-13 in bias-ply construction. Both sizes are built for 13-inch rims, but they do not serve the same role across the model range. The Alpine Coupe can use either size, while the Alpine GT uses 165R13.

That means the first step is confirming whether the car is a Coupe or GT and whether it is being kept in a bias-ply or radial setup. Since both sizes share the same rim diameter, the decision is less about wheel size and more about matching the tire to the car's existing wheel width, intended appearance, and driving use.

The 1970 Sunbeam Alpine uses a 13-inch rim diameter with both of its primary tire sizes. The radial 165R13 and the bias-ply 600-13 are both designed around that same 13-inch wheel diameter, so there is no split in rim diameter between the listed Alpine fitments.

Wheel diameter is only one part of the fitment picture, though. It is still important to confirm actual wheel width before choosing between the available tires, especially when moving between bias-ply and radial constructions. On older sports cars, previous wheel changes are common, so checking the wheel on the car is smarter than assuming it remains original.

No, the covered 1970 Sunbeam Alpine sub-models do not all use the same tire-size range. The Alpine Coupe is associated with both 165R13 radial and 600-13 bias-ply fitments, while the Alpine GT uses only the 165R13 radial size. That creates a real difference in selection between the two sub-models.

For a GT, the choice stays within the 165R13 radial category and its available product options. For a Coupe, the decision can include whether to retain a bias-ply look with 600-13 or use the 165R13 radial path instead. Checking the exact sub-model first prevents choosing a tire that matches the wheel diameter but not the intended fitment approach.

On the 1970 Sunbeam Alpine, 600-13 is a bias-ply tire size. It uses the older numeric sizing format and is separate from the 165R13 radial fitment also associated with this model range. In practical terms, 600-13 represents the traditional construction option rather than a radial version of the same size.

That matters because a bias-ply setup affects both appearance and tire selection. The available 600-13 choices center on BFGoodrich Silvertown Classic Bias Ply products with whitewall variations, not blackwall radial sport-touring styles. Before changing construction, confirm wheel width, clearance, and the overall direction of the car, whether that is restoration-oriented presentation or regular road use.

Radial equivalents for 600-13 include 165R13 as the 80-series metric radial, P165/75R13 as the P-metric 75-series radial, and P175/70R13 as the P-metric 70-series radial. Those are the named alternatives associated with the original bias-ply size, and they cover both Euro-metric and P-metric radial formats.

Each of those sizes should be treated as an alternative to evaluate rather than an automatic swap. A recommended rim width range of 4 to 5 inches applies in this equivalent group, and the final choice should be checked against the car's actual wheel width, overall dimensions, and clearance through steering travel and suspension movement.

Start by confirming the tire size being replaced, the wheel's 13-inch diameter, and the actual wheel width on the car. For a 600-13 conversion path, the radial-equivalent choices are 165R13, P165/75R13, and P175/70R13, with a recommended rim width range of 4 to 5 inches for that equivalent grouping.

Construction changes should also be checked against the car's current setup. Measure available clearance at the fenders and during steering movement, and look closely at suspension condition before making the change. On a collector car, prior modifications can alter fitment, so the safer approach is verifying the wheel and vehicle as they sit now rather than relying on assumptions.

The main decision is whether the car should use the 165R13 radial fitment or the 600-13 bias-ply fitment that applies to certain Alpine configurations. After that, compare construction type, sidewall presentation, available tire series, and wheel-width suitability. Both sizes use 13-inch rims, but they serve different ownership goals.

A radial choice usually points toward blackwall touring or sports-car styling, while the bias-ply option brings a more traditional whitewall presentation. The right pick depends on the exact sub-model, how the car is used, and whether appearance or construction retention matters most. Wheel width should always be confirmed before narrowing the final product choice.

Sidewall style depends on the tire size selected for the 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. In 165R13 radial form, the available choices are blackwall tires. In 600-13 bias-ply form, the available sidewall treatments are narrow whitewall and wide whitewall, giving that size a more overtly vintage appearance.

That difference makes sidewall choice part of the broader fitment decision rather than a cosmetic detail added later. An owner keeping a clean imported sports-car look may lean toward the blackwall radial options, while someone after a more traditional period-style presentation may prefer one of the whitewall bias-ply tires. The sub-model and construction path should be settled first.

Michelin, Dunlop, and BFGoodrich all offer applicable tires for the 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. Michelin and Dunlop appear in the 165R13 radial category, while BFGoodrich covers the 600-13 bias-ply fitment. The available radial series include Michelin XAS, Michelin XAS-FF, and Dunlop SP Sport Aquajet.

Brand choice should be matched to the tire size and construction the car actually uses. A GT owner will be comparing radial-brand and series options, while a Coupe owner may also weigh whether to stay with a BFGoodrich bias-ply whitewall presentation. The most useful comparison points are size, construction, sidewall style, and wheel compatibility rather than brand name alone.

A period-style 1970 Sunbeam Alpine tire choice starts with the construction and size path that matches the car's intended presentation. The 600-13 bias-ply option gives the Alpine a more traditional look, while 165R13 retains a classic imported radial format. Both can suit an older sports car, but they communicate different visual eras.

For a restoration-oriented car, the best choice depends on whether the goal is preserving a bias-ply appearance or presenting the car with a later radial style that still feels appropriate to the period. When exact originality matters, it is wise to check marque-specific references and the vehicle's own history before settling on sidewall treatment or construction.

Tire construction changes more than ride and handling feel on a restored 1970 Sunbeam Alpine; it also changes the car's visual character. The 165R13 radial choices are blackwall tires with a cleaner late-classic sports-car look, while the 600-13 bias-ply choices are offered with narrow or wide whitewall styling for a more traditional presentation.

That means construction should be considered alongside body finish, wheel style, and the overall restoration direction. A car intended for road use may still favor radial construction, while one built around vintage presentation may benefit from the bias-ply route. Appearance goals should be balanced with wheel compatibility and how closely the finished car should reflect its period impression.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1970 Sunbeam Alpine even when the nominal tire size is correct. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension changes, ride-height adjustments, or bodywork differences can all change how a 165R13 or 600-13 tire sits in the car's wheel opening and steering arc.

That is why the car should be checked in its current condition rather than treated as a stock example by default. Measure the actual wheel, inspect clearance at full steering lock, and look for signs of rubbing near the fender edges or suspension components. Small sports cars leave less room for assumptions, especially after decades of owner changes.

Before driving a 1970 Sunbeam Alpine on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and width, make sure the tires are seated properly, and confirm there is no interference during steering movement. Tire pressure should be set appropriately for the selected tires, and the car should be checked for obvious suspension or alignment issues.

A short, careful road test is a sensible next step on any older sports car. Pay attention to pull, vibration, contact noise, or unusual air loss after installation. Collector vehicles that sit for long periods also deserve a close look at wheel hardware, valve stems, and brake condition so the first drive does not reveal problems unrelated to the tires themselves.

Collector-car tire maintenance starts with routine inspection, even when the 1970 Sunbeam Alpine is driven only occasionally. Both 165R13 radial and 600-13 bias-ply tires should be checked for cracking, cuts, bulges, uneven wear, and gradual air loss. Low annual mileage does not eliminate tire aging, especially when the car spends long periods parked.

Storage conditions matter just as much as mileage on a seldom-driven Alpine. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, standing moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve tire condition over time. Regular pressure checks and occasional movement of the car can also help, and any tire showing age-related deterioration should be evaluated before further road use.