The 1973 American Motors Hornet sits in an interesting part of the domestic compact market, bridging practical everyday transportation and the more personality-driven AMC approach to styling and trim. For owners restoring or maintaining one today, tire choice plays a big role in preserving that early-1970s character. The 1973 American Motors Hornet uses 14-inch bias-ply fitments, with 695-14, C78-14, and D78-14 appearing across the model line depending on sub-model. That opens up meaningful choices in period-style presentation, including blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual redline, and raised white letter treatments in some sizes. The right decision starts with confirming the exact Hornet configuration, then matching the tire’s look and construction to the car’s intended use.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1973 American Motors Hornet
Three primary tire sizes apply to the 1973 American Motors Hornet, and the right one depends on the specific sub-model. All of them are bias-ply tires for 14-inch rims, but the Hornet X has a different fitment path than the 6 Cyl., 8 Cyl., and Wagon models. Before comparing brands or sidewall styles, identify the exact Hornet version and confirm that the wheels on the car are still the correct 14-inch setup.
A 695-14 uses a vintage numeric bias-ply sizing system, where 6.95 refers to the nominal section width in inches and 14 identifies the rim diameter. On the 1973 American Motors Hornet, this is one of the primary 14-inch bias-ply fitments used on several sub-models and suits buyers who want a traditional early-1970s tire profile. Available choices include BFGoodrich, US Royal, and Goodyear, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual redline, raised white letter, and Blue Streak-style presentations. It is the size to evaluate when preserving a stock-looking compact AMC stance matters as much as simple wheel diameter matching.
C78-14 uses a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply format, where the letter marks the tire’s size class, the 78 identifies its profile family, and 14 is the rim diameter. For the 1973 American Motors Hornet, this size appears across multiple sub-models and keeps the car within a period-style bias-ply fitment approach on a 14-inch wheel. It is also one of the sizes with modern radial equivalents available for buyers comparing original-style construction against an alternate sizing format. This size deserves a close look when the car falls into one of the C78-14-equipped sub-model groups and the goal is to stay near the original fitment character.
D78-14 is another vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size, using the same 78-series style designation and a 14-inch rim diameter, but with a larger letter-class fitment than C78-14. On the 1973 American Motors Hornet, it is tied specifically to the Hornet X and should not be assumed to apply across the rest of the line. This makes the Hornet X owner’s first job confirming that the car still carries the correct wheel and trim-specific setup rather than simply matching rim diameter. It is the size to focus on when a Hornet X needs the right primary fitment instead of a more general Hornet replacement.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 1973 American Motors Hornet because not every version uses the same primary tire size. The 6 Cyl., 8 Cyl., and Wagon share one fitment pattern, while the Hornet X adds a different size combination that should be confirmed before choosing tires.
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1973 American Motors Hornet 6 Cyl.
The 1973 American Motors Hornet 6 Cyl. uses 695-14 and C78-14 bias-ply tire fitments on 14-inch rims. That gives the owner a choice between two period-style sizing formats, so selection should center on the car’s existing wheel setup, preferred appearance, and whether a radial equivalent is being considered for one of those primary sizes.
The 1973 American Motors Hornet 8 Cyl. follows the same 695-14 and C78-14 bias-ply fitment pattern used on other non-X versions. Tire selection starts with confirming which of those two primary sizes belongs on the car, then comparing sidewall treatments and construction goals rather than assuming every Hornet uses one universal replacement size.
The 1973 American Motors Hornet Wagon also uses 695-14 and C78-14 bias-ply tires on 14-inch rims. Since both sizes appear within this sub-model, the practical next step is checking the actual wheel and current fitment on the vehicle before choosing a period-style bias-ply tire or evaluating one of the available radial equivalent sizes.
The 1973 American Motors Hornet X uses C78-14 and D78-14 bias-ply tire sizes, setting it apart from the other Hornet sub-models. That makes exact sub-model identification especially important, because a Hornet X owner may be deciding between two larger alphanumeric fitments rather than the 695-14 size seen elsewhere in the lineup.
Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1973 American Motors Hornet
For the original 695-14 and C78-14 sizes, three radial-equivalent options are available for each primary fitment. Both sizes cross to 175R14 as an 80-series metric radial, P185/75R14 as a P-metric 75-series radial, and P195/70R14 as a lower-profile P-metric 70-series radial. These options give the Hornet owner a choice between older metric radial convention and later P-metric sizing profiles. A 4-6 inch recommended rim-width range applies, and any conversion should still be checked against wheel width, overall dimensions, and vehicle clearance.
Modern Radial Equivalents
175R14
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (695-14)
P185/75R14
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (695-14)
P195/70R14
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (695-14)
175R14
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (C78-14)
P185/75R14
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (C78-14)
P195/70R14
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (C78-14)
Important Considerations When Replacing Bias Ply With Radial
Compare overall diameter and section width carefully to ensure proper fit.
Verify recommended rim range (4-6 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 1973 American Motors Hornet Tires for Sale
Available 695-14 choices span BFGoodrich, US Royal, and Goodyear bias-ply tires across Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, US Royal Classic Bias Ply, Blue Streak, and Power Cushion lines. Sidewall presentation varies from blackwall and narrow whitewall to dual redline and raised white letter styles.
These FAQs focus on the tire sizes used on the 1973 American Motors Hornet, how sub-model fitment differs, what the vintage size codes mean, and how to compare period-style bias-ply options with modern radial equivalents.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1973 American Motors Hornet?
The 1973 American Motors Hornet uses three primary bias-ply tire sizes on 14-inch rims: 695-14, C78-14, and D78-14. The correct size depends on the exact sub-model. Hornet 6 Cyl., 8 Cyl., and Wagon applications use 695-14 and C78-14, while the Hornet X uses C78-14 and D78-14.
That means the first step is not choosing a brand or sidewall style, but confirming which Hornet configuration is being fitted and checking the wheel setup already on the car. Many collector cars have had wheels or tires changed over time, so matching the exact sub-model and actual 14-inch wheel arrangement helps prevent selecting the wrong primary size.
What size rim does a 1973 American Motors Hornet use?
The primary tire fitments for the 1973 American Motors Hornet all use a 14-inch rim diameter. That includes 695-14, C78-14, and D78-14, so the Hornet’s tire selection stays within one wheel diameter even though more than one tire size appears across the model range.
Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture, though it is an important starting point. Wheel width also matters, especially if the car has been modified or if a radial equivalent is being considered in place of a bias-ply size. Checking the stamped wheel size or measuring the actual wheel before ordering helps keep the tire decision grounded in the car’s current setup.
Do all 1973 American Motors Hornet sub-models use the same tire size?
No, the 1973 American Motors Hornet does not use one universal tire size across every sub-model. The 6 Cyl., 8 Cyl., and Wagon use 695-14 and C78-14, while the Hornet X uses C78-14 and D78-14. C78-14 overlaps across the lineup, but the other sizes are not shared the same way.
That difference matters because a Hornet X should not be treated the same as every other Hornet when selecting tires. A buyer comparing vintage sizes, period-style sidewalls, or radial alternatives should start with the exact sub-model name and then confirm what is actually mounted on the car. That avoids turning a simple 14-inch tire purchase into a fitment mistake.
Bias-Ply & Radial Options
Is 695-14 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1973 American Motors Hornet?
On the 1973 American Motors Hornet, 695-14 is a primary bias-ply tire size. It uses a vintage numeric sizing system and belongs to the original-style 14-inch fitment group used on several Hornet sub-models rather than a modern radial sizing convention.
That matters because a buyer deciding on 695-14 is usually choosing between staying with the traditional bias-ply construction or evaluating one of the radial equivalent sizes available for that fitment. Construction choice affects appearance and setup requirements, so the wheel width, overall tire dimensions, and vehicle clearance should all be confirmed before moving away from the primary bias-ply size.
What radial tire sizes are equivalent to 695-14?
Radial equivalents for 695-14 include 175R14, P185/75R14, and P195/70R14. The 175R14 is the 80-series metric radial equivalent, P185/75R14 is the P-metric 75-series radial equivalent, and P195/70R14 is the P-metric 70-series radial equivalent. A 4-6 inch recommended rim-width range is associated with those equivalent options.
Those sizes give a Hornet owner several ways to compare modern radial formats against the original bias-ply fitment. Even with the same 14-inch rim diameter, the conversion should be checked carefully for wheel-width compatibility and for how the tire sits within the car’s fender and suspension space. Equivalent does not mean automatic interchangeability on every individual car.
What should I check before converting my 1973 American Motors Hornet from bias-ply to radial tires?
Start by confirming the Hornet’s original primary size, the actual wheel diameter, and the wheel width on the car now. For 695-14 and C78-14 applications, radial equivalents include 175R14, P185/75R14, and P195/70R14, but each uses a different sizing convention and profile relationship than the original bias-ply fitment.
A careful conversion also means comparing tire dimensions, steering clearance, fender clearance, and the condition of suspension and steering components before making the switch. Cars that have been stored, modified, lowered, or fitted with non-stock wheels deserve extra scrutiny. The goal is to make sure the radial alternative suits the Hornet’s actual wheel and body setup, not just the nominal size code.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 695-14 tire for a 1973 American Motors Hornet?
A 695-14 choice starts with confirming that this is the correct primary size for the specific 1973 American Motors Hornet sub-model and wheel setup. From there, the main factors are bias-ply construction, 14-inch rim compatibility, sidewall appearance, tire series, and product specifications such as rim-width fitment and load rating at the stated pressure.
The available 695-14 products vary in presentation from blackwall to narrow whitewall, dual redline, and raised white letter styles, so the right tire depends on whether the car is being restored for a traditional look or fitted for a more distinct period flavor. It also helps to compare the wheel width on the car against the tire’s intended rim-width range before making a final selection.
What sidewall styles are available for 1973 American Motors Hornet tires?
For available 695-14 Hornet tires, sidewall choices include blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual redline, RWL, and a raised-white-letter Blue Streak-style presentation. Those options all stay within a period-oriented 14-inch bias-ply format, but they give the car noticeably different visual character depending on how original, sporty, or dressy the finished look should be.
Sidewall style should be chosen after the correct primary tire size has been confirmed, not before. A Hornet intended for a restrained stock appearance may suit a blackwall or narrow whitewall, while a more performance-flavored visual theme may point toward dual redline or raised white letter styling. Appearance matters, but fitment and wheel compatibility still come first.
What brands offer tires for the 1973 American Motors Hornet?
Available 695-14 tire options for the 1973 American Motors Hornet come from BFGoodrich, US Royal, and Goodyear. The product mix includes series such as Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, US Royal Classic Bias Ply, Blue Streak, and Power Cushion, giving buyers several brand and presentation paths within the same vintage size category.
Brand choice is most useful when it helps narrow down the look and character you want from the tire rather than suggesting one universal answer for every Hornet. Once the correct size is confirmed, compare sidewall treatment, construction, rim-width fitment, load specification, and overall appearance. That keeps the decision centered on the car’s needs instead of just the name on the sidewall.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1973 American Motors Hornet?
A period-style 1973 American Motors Hornet tire choice usually begins with the correct primary bias-ply size for the exact sub-model: 695-14, C78-14, or D78-14. From there, the decision becomes one of visual character and intended use, especially if the car is being restored with attention to early-1970s stance and sidewall appearance.
For many owners, the best period-style direction is the tire that preserves the right size family first and then uses a sidewall treatment that matches the car’s presentation. Blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual redline, and raised white letter styles can all change the personality of the finished car. Exact originality claims should be checked against marque-specific restoration references when that level of detail matters.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1973 American Motors Hornet?
Tire construction has a strong visual effect on a restored 1973 American Motors Hornet because the primary fitments are bias-ply sizes that carry a distinctly vintage sidewall and profile character. Staying with a bias-ply tire generally preserves the traditional early-1970s presentation more closely than switching immediately to a modern radial sizing format.
Appearance is only one part of the decision, but it matters on a collector AMC where the tire fills a visible role in stance and overall authenticity of look. A radial equivalent may still be worth considering for some owners, yet it should be viewed as an alternative approach rather than the same visual result. Construction choice should support the restoration goal, not work against it.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1973 American Motors Hornet?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1973 American Motors Hornet even when the nominal tire size appears correct. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, altered offset, suspension work, lowering, or body modifications can all change how a 695-14, C78-14, D78-14, or a radial equivalent sits and clears on the car.
That is why an owner should check more than the sidewall size before replacing tires on a modified Hornet. The wheel diameter may still be 14 inches, but steering clearance, fender space, and the tire’s section shape can differ depending on the wheel and ride height. A quick inspection of the actual vehicle setup helps prevent rubbing or mismatch problems.
What should I inspect before driving a 1973 American Motors Hornet on new tires?
Before road use, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and sound condition, verify that lug hardware is appropriate, and confirm that the tires are inflated properly for the application. It also makes sense to look over the Hornet’s suspension and steering components, since worn parts can affect how a newly installed tire tracks and clears.
A collector car deserves a broader walk-around as well. Check for adequate fender and steering clearance, listen for air loss after installation, and make sure old age-related issues such as cracked valve stems or neglected wheel condition are not overlooked. A short local test drive followed by another inspection is a sensible way to confirm everything has settled correctly.
How should 695-14 tires on a collector 1973 American Motors Hornet be maintained?
695-14 tires on a collector 1973 American Motors Hornet should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and careful storage habits. Look for cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven wear, and signs of slow air loss, especially on a car that spends long periods parked rather than being driven routinely.
Collector vehicles often age their tires through time and storage conditions as much as through mileage. Keeping the Hornet away from prolonged sun, excess heat, moisture, and ozone-producing equipment helps protect the tire sidewalls and casing. It also helps to inspect the tires before every meaningful drive rather than assuming low miles automatically mean road-ready condition.
