The 1973 American Motors Javelin sits at an interesting point in the American pony car era, carrying AMC’s distinct styling into a market that was rapidly changing in both performance and tire technology. For owners today, tire selection is especially important because this exact Javelin can use several different sizes depending on engine or performance package, including both bias-ply and radial fitments. That means the decision is not just about ordering a 14-inch or 15-inch tire, but also about matching the right construction, sidewall presentation, and series to the specific car. A restoration-minded AMX and a road-driven six-cylinder Javelin may call for very different choices.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1973 American Motors Javelin
The 1973 American Motors Javelin uses five primary tire sizes, and the right one depends first on the exact sub-model and wheel diameter. Most fitments stay on a 14-inch rim, but the AMX with Go Pkg. moves to a 15-inch setup, and one AMX fitment also appears in radial form, so confirming both sub-model and wheel size matters before comparing tire styles.
D78-14 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size in which the letter and number identify the tire’s period width and profile family, while the 14 designates a 14-inch rim. On the 1973 American Motors Javelin, this size belongs to bias-ply fitment and suits cars that remain closest to a traditional seventies tire construction. Product selection is more limited here than with some other Javelin sizes, so the main value of D78-14 is staying aligned with the correct fitment path for the specific sub-model and wheel setup. It should be verified against the car’s actual wheels if any changes have been made over time.
E78-14 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size, with the letter class and 78-series designation reflecting an older sizing system and the final 14 indicating a 14-inch rim. For the 1973 American Motors Javelin, this is one of the core bias-ply fitments and it appears in very different product styles, including blackwall, wide whitewall, and utility-oriented designs. Available choices include Coker Classic and STA, with series such as Coker Classic Bias Ply, Traxion, and Transport Highway. That makes E78-14 especially relevant for owners balancing a stock-style look, heavier-duty use, or a more restoration-oriented sidewall presentation.
E70-14 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size that uses the period letter-and-series format rather than a modern metric measurement, and it mounts on a 14-inch rim. On the 1973 American Motors Javelin, this size is tied to AMX fitment and carries a distinctly muscle-era tire character. Product choices are broad here, with Firestone and Goodyear offerings in series such as Wide Oval and Custom Wide Tread, plus sidewall treatments including pin-white-stripe, redline, and raised white letter. E70-14 is the size to evaluate when appearance matters just as much as fitment, especially on a performance-oriented build.
FR70-14 is an alphanumeric radial size, where the inserted R marks radial construction within a period-style size designation, and the 14 identifies a 14-inch rim. For the 1973 American Motors Javelin, this size gives the AMX a radial-format option while still keeping a vintage muscle-car look. The available FR70-14 product is a Goodyear Polyglas Radial with raised white letters, so the choice here is less about comparing many series and more about deciding whether this radial-style presentation matches the car’s intended use. Wheel width and overall clearance should still be confirmed before changing setup.
E60-15 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size, with the E size class and 60-series profile paired with a 15-inch rim diameter. On the 1973 American Motors Javelin, this size is specific to the AMX with Go Pkg., so it should not be treated as a general Javelin fitment. The available product is a Goodyear Polyglas GT in raised white letter form, giving this size a strong period performance appearance. Its role is closely tied to the correct wheel diameter and stance of that package, making wheel confirmation the first step before any appearance or construction decision.
Sub-model fitment on the 1973 American Motors Javelin is not one-size-fits-all. Tire choice changes by engine grouping and AMX package, and one version also shifts from a 14-inch wheel to a 15-inch fitment, so confirming the exact sub-model is the key first step.
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1973 American Motors Javelin 6 Cyl.
The 1973 American Motors Javelin 6 Cyl. uses 14-inch bias-ply fitment, with D78-14 and E78-14 associated with this sub-model. That makes the selection process less about modernizing the package and more about choosing the right period-style size path and sidewall treatment for the wheels actually on the car.
The 1973 American Motors Javelin 8 Cyl. shares the same 14-inch bias-ply size range as the six-cylinder version, using D78-14 and E78-14. Tire selection here centers on confirming which of those sizes matches the car’s setup, then choosing among available blackwall or whitewall product styles where appropriate.
The 1973 American Motors Javelin AMX uses performance-oriented 14-inch fitments, with E70-14 in bias-ply form and FR70-14 in radial form. That gives AMX owners a more deliberate choice between traditional muscle-era construction and a period-style radial presentation, with sidewall style playing a major role in the final look.
The 1973 American Motors Javelin AMX (Go Pkg.) moves to E60-15, making it the only covered sub-model here with a 15-inch primary fitment. That makes wheel diameter especially important, since this package should be matched to the correct 15-inch setup before comparing available tire series or sidewall styling.
Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1973 American Motors Javelin
For the 1973 American Motors Javelin, two primary bias-ply sizes have radial-equivalent options: E78-14 and E70-14, each with three usable alternatives. Both sizes can be compared to 185R14 as an 80-series metric radial, P195/75R14 as a 75-series P-metric radial, and P205/70R14 as a 70-series P-metric radial. These choices span a more traditional tall metric format to lower-profile P-metric alternatives. A recommended rim-width range of 4-6 inches applies to those equivalent paths, and wheel size, overall dimensions, and clearance should be checked before changing setups.
Modern Radial Equivalents
185R14
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (E78-14)
P195/75R14
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (E78-14)
P205/70R14
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (E78-14)
185R14
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (E70-14)
P195/75R14
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (E70-14)
P205/70R14
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (E70-14)
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 Javelin Tires for Sale
Available 1973 American Motors Javelin tires vary by size, brand, tire series, and sidewall presentation. Depending on fitment, choices include Coker Classic, STA, Firestone, and Goodyear, with wide whitewall, blackwall, pin-white-stripe, redline, and raised white letter styles across bias-ply and period-style radial offerings.
These 1973 American Motors Javelin tire FAQs focus on the exact fitment questions owners usually face, including sub-model size differences, 14-inch versus 15-inch wheels, bias-ply and radial choices, sidewall appearance, and road-use checks before driving.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1973 American Motors Javelin?
The 1973 American Motors Javelin does not use one universal tire size across every version. Primary fitments include D78-14, E78-14, E70-14, FR70-14, and E60-15, depending on the exact sub-model. Most of those sizes are 14-inch fitments, while E60-15 is used on a 15-inch wheel.
The first step is identifying whether the car is a 6 Cyl., 8 Cyl., AMX, or AMX with Go Pkg. After that, confirm the wheel diameter actually on the vehicle, since many older Javelins have seen wheel changes over the years. Once sub-model and wheel size are confirmed, the decision becomes much more straightforward.
What size rim does a 1973 American Motors Javelin use?
A 1973 American Motors Javelin can use either a 14-inch or 15-inch rim, depending on the specific fitment. D78-14, E78-14, E70-14, and FR70-14 are all 14-inch tire sizes, while E60-15 uses a 15-inch rim. That makes rim diameter one of the most important details to verify before selecting tires.
Checking only the sidewall size is not always enough on a collector car, especially if wheels have been changed since new. Measuring the wheel and confirming its width is a smart follow-up step, particularly when comparing performance-style tires or considering a radial alternative. A correct tire choice starts with the actual wheel on the car, not assumption.
Do all 1973 American Motors Javelin sub-models use the same tire size?
No, 1973 American Motors Javelin sub-models do not all use the same tire size. The 6 Cyl. and 8 Cyl. versions use D78-14 and E78-14, the AMX uses E70-14 and FR70-14, and the AMX with Go Pkg. uses E60-15. Fitment changes not only by sub-model but also by construction and rim diameter.
That difference matters because a tire that suits one Javelin configuration may be completely wrong for another. The AMX with Go Pkg. is the clearest example, since it moves to a 15-inch setup while the others remain on 14-inch fitments. Matching the tire to the exact version of the car helps preserve proper stance, appearance, and wheel compatibility.
Bias-Ply & Radial Options
Is E70-14 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1973 American Motors Javelin?
E70-14 is a bias-ply tire size on the 1973 American Motors Javelin. It is used on the AMX, where it represents a traditional vintage alphanumeric bias-ply fitment. The similar-looking FR70-14 is the radial-format option tied to AMX fitment, but E70-14 itself remains a bias-ply size.
That distinction matters because bias-ply and radial tires differ in construction as well as appearance. An owner choosing E70-14 is usually staying with a period-style muscle-car presentation, while someone comparing it to FR70-14 or a metric equivalent should also confirm wheel width and vehicle clearance. Construction choice should match both the car’s setup and its intended use.
What radial tire sizes are equivalent to E70-14?
Radial equivalents for E70-14 include 185R14, P195/75R14, and P205/70R14. Those represent three different modern sizing approaches: an 80-series metric radial, a 75-series P-metric radial, and a 70-series P-metric radial. Each gives a useful comparison path for owners evaluating a radial alternative to the original bias-ply size.
The recommended rim-width range for those equivalent paths is 4-6 inches, which helps narrow the wheel side of the decision. Even so, a radial equivalent should still be checked against the car’s actual wheel width, overall dimensions, and available clearance before conversion. Equivalent sizing is a starting point for evaluation, not an automatic interchange claim.
What should I check before converting my 1973 American Motors Javelin from bias-ply to radial tires?
Start by confirming the Javelin’s exact sub-model, existing tire size, and wheel diameter, because this car uses multiple fitments across 14-inch and 15-inch setups. Then compare the intended radial size to the wheel width being used. On AMX applications, it also helps to decide whether the goal is a more traditional appearance or a different construction approach.
Clearance should be checked at the fenders, steering, and suspension, especially if the car has aftermarket wheels or a changed ride height. It is also smart to inspect the overall condition of the wheels before mounting a different construction type. A careful conversion keeps the focus on compatibility rather than assuming all radial alternatives behave the same way.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 1973 American Motors Javelin tire?
Begin with the exact fitment: sub-model, tire size, and wheel diameter. A 1973 American Motors Javelin can call for D78-14, E78-14, E70-14, FR70-14, or E60-15, so choosing the correct size comes before comparing appearance or brand. Construction also matters because this Javelin range includes both bias-ply and radial-style options.
After the fitment is confirmed, compare the tires by sidewall style, tire series, and wheel compatibility. An owner restoring an AMX may focus on raised white letters or redlines, while a more standard Javelin may suit a blackwall or wide whitewall look better. Matching the tire to both the car’s setup and the intended presentation usually leads to the right decision.
What sidewall styles are available for 1973 American Motors Javelin tires?
Sidewall choices for 1973 American Motors Javelin tires include wide whitewall, blackwall, pin-white-stripe, redline, and RWL, which is raised white letter. The available style depends on the tire size. E78-14 leans toward wide whitewall and blackwall options, while E70-14 and FR70-14 bring in more muscle-era stripe and lettered sidewall treatments.
That variety lets the tire shape the whole presentation of the car without changing the basic fitment. A whitewall can suit a more formal or conservative look, while redline and raised white letter tires fit a stronger seventies performance theme. The important part is choosing the sidewall style within the correct size rather than selecting by appearance alone.
What brands offer tires for the 1973 American Motors Javelin?
Available brands for 1973 American Motors Javelin tire fitments include Coker Classic, STA, Firestone, and Goodyear. Brand choice depends on the size being used. E78-14 includes Coker Classic and STA options, E70-14 includes Firestone and Goodyear choices, and both FR70-14 and E60-15 are available from Goodyear in period-style performance-oriented series.
The practical value of those brand differences is that they often come with different tire series and sidewall treatments. That gives owners room to choose between a more understated look, a whitewall presentation, or a muscle-car style with raised white letters or redlines. Brand should be part of the selection process, but only after the correct size and wheel fitment are confirmed.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1973 American Motors Javelin?
A period-style 1973 American Motors Javelin should start with the correct primary tire size for the exact sub-model, then narrow the choice by construction and sidewall appearance. E78-14, E70-14, FR70-14, and E60-15 each create a different visual effect, and the six-cylinder, eight-cylinder, AMX, and Go Pkg. cars do not all follow the same fitment path.
For a restoration-oriented result, many owners focus on retaining the proper vintage size format before choosing between blackwall, whitewall, redline, or raised white letter styling. Exact originality can depend on details beyond size alone, so marque references or build-specific documentation may be useful when authenticity matters. Appearance works best when it follows the correct fitment rather than overriding it.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1973 American Motors Javelin?
Tire construction changes the look of a restored 1973 American Motors Javelin as much as the sidewall treatment does. A bias-ply tire keeps the visual language most buyers expect from an early seventies muscle-era car, while a radial-format option such as FR70-14 can still look period-inspired but presents the car differently in profile and overall impression.
That means construction should be part of the restoration conversation, not just a driving decision. An AMX built around performance-era styling may lean toward Wide Oval, Custom Wide Tread, or Polyglas-style presentation, while another owner may prioritize road use and still want a vintage appearance. The best result usually comes from balancing visual goals with the exact tire size the car uses.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1973 American Motors Javelin?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1973 American Motors Javelin. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension changes, and ride-height adjustments can all change how a D78-14, E78-14, E70-14, FR70-14, or E60-15 tire sits in the wheel opening. Even when the nominal size is correct, the actual setup may no longer match stock-style assumptions.
That is why wheel diameter alone is not the whole story. A Javelin with non-original wheels should also be checked for width, offset, and available clearance at full steering lock and suspension travel. Looking at the vehicle as it sits today is especially important before choosing a radial alternative or a performance-style sidewall package.
What should I inspect before driving a 1973 American Motors Javelin on new tires?
Before driving a 1973 American Motors Javelin on new tires, inspect the wheels for condition, verify tire pressure, and make sure the selected size matches the car’s sub-model and rim diameter. It also helps to confirm that all lug hardware is correct and properly seated. A short visual check now can prevent fitment surprises once the car is moving.
Next, look for adequate clearance around the fenders, steering components, and suspension through a full turn of the front wheels. Collector cars that have sat for long periods also deserve a quick brake and suspension check before road use. New tires perform best when the rest of the rolling assembly is in sound condition and the setup has been verified carefully.
How should 1973 American Motors Javelin tires be maintained on a collector car?
Tires on a collector 1973 American Motors Javelin should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and careful storage habits. Even a car that sees only occasional use can develop sidewall cracking, flat spotting, air loss, or age-related deterioration over time. Bias-ply and period-style radial tires both benefit from routine attention rather than long neglect.
A stored Javelin should be kept away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources whenever possible. It is also wise to inspect tread, sidewalls, and valve stems before every meaningful drive, not just at seasonal intervals. Collector vehicles often age their tires long before they wear them out, so condition matters as much as tread depth.
