The 1973 BMW 2002 sits at the heart of BMW’s compact sport-sedan story, combining light weight, crisp proportions, and the kind of direct road feel that made the 2002 a benchmark for enthusiast driving. Tire choice matters on a car like this because the chassis responds noticeably to construction, profile, and sidewall character. The 1973 BMW 2002 uses either a 165R13 radial or a 600-13 bias-ply tire on a 13-inch rim, with fitment varying by sub-model. That opens the door to traditional whitewall bias-ply options, classic blackwall radials, and radial equivalents for the bias-ply size. The right choice depends on whether the goal is original-style presentation, road manners, or staying true to a specific sub-model setup.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1973 BMW 2002
The 1973 BMW 2002 uses two primary tire sizes, and the first step is identifying the exact sub-model. Both sizes fit 13-inch rims, but the fitment differs by construction and application: 165R13 is a radial fitment, while 600-13 is a bias-ply fitment used only on certain versions. Once the correct setup is confirmed, the real decision becomes choosing the tire style, series, and whether to stay with the original construction type or evaluate a radial alternative where applicable.
165R13 is a Euro-metric radial size in which 165 refers to the nominal section width in millimeters, R identifies radial construction, and 13 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 1973 BMW 2002, this size carries the more modern radial format used on 13-inch rims and is the fitment shared across the range, including the Tii. Available choices focus on blackwall presentation, with Michelin XAS-FF, Michelin XAS, and Dunlop SP Sport Aquajet series represented. This size is the one to evaluate when maintaining a classic European radial look and feel on the correct wheel diameter.
600-13 is a numeric bias-ply size in which 600 denotes an approximate 6.00-inch nominal section width and 13 identifies the wheel diameter. On the 1973 BMW 2002, this size provides a traditional bias-ply fitment on a 13-inch rim rather than the radial construction used on other versions. The available choices center on BFGoodrich’s Silvertown Classic Bias Ply series with narrow whitewall and wide whitewall sidewall treatments. This size is worth considering when a period-style presentation matters, but the exact sub-model and wheel setup should be confirmed before selecting it.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 1973 BMW 2002 because not every version uses the same construction. The Tii stays with the radial setup, while the Base & A range can be fitted with either radial or bias-ply sizing, so matching the tire to the specific sub-model is the key first step.
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1973 BMW 2002 Base & A
The 1973 BMW 2002 Base & A can use either the 165R13 radial size or the 600-13 bias-ply size on a 13-inch rim. That gives this sub-model the broadest tire-selection range, from classic blackwall radials to restoration-oriented whitewall bias-ply options and radial equivalents for the bias-ply fitment.
The 1973 BMW 2002 Tii uses the 165R13 radial size rather than the 600-13 bias-ply alternative. Tire selection for this sub-model is therefore more straightforward, with the main decision centered on choosing among the available blackwall radial series and confirming wheel condition and fitment before installation.
Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1973 BMW 2002
For the 600-13 primary tire size, three radial-equivalent options are available. 165R13 is the 80-series metric radial equivalent, P165/75R13 is the P-metric 75-series radial equivalent, and P175/70R13 is the P-metric 70-series radial equivalent. These choices move from a classic Euro-metric radial format to progressively more modern P-metric sizing conventions. A recommended rim-width range of 4 to 5 inches applies, and any conversion should be checked against wheel width, overall dimensions, and vehicle clearance before use.
Modern Radial Equivalents
165R13
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (600-13)
P165/75R13
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (600-13)
P175/70R13
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (600-13)
Important Considerations When Replacing Bias Ply With Radial
Compare overall diameter and section width carefully to ensure proper fit.
Verify recommended rim range (4-5 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 BMW 2002 Tires for Sale
Available 1973 BMW 2002 tire choices include Michelin and Dunlop blackwall radials in 165R13 and BFGoodrich Silvertown Classic Bias Ply options in 600-13. The main comparisons are construction type, tire series, whitewall versus blackwall presentation, and rim-width compatibility by size.
These FAQs focus on the tire sizes used on the 1973 BMW 2002, the difference between radial and bias-ply fitments, available radial equivalents for 600-13, and the practical checks that matter before driving or restoring one.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1973 BMW 2002?
The 1973 BMW 2002 uses two tire sizes: 165R13 in radial construction and 600-13 in bias-ply construction. The Base & A sub-model can use either 165R13 or 600-13, while the 1973 BMW 2002 Tii uses 165R13 radial tires.
That makes sub-model identification important before choosing a tire. Both sizes use a 13-inch rim, but they differ in sizing system, construction, and available product styles. Checking the exact sub-model, current wheel setup, and whether the car still has stock-type wheels will help narrow the correct tire choice.
What size rim does a 1973 BMW 2002 use?
The 1973 BMW 2002 uses a 13-inch rim with both of its primary tire sizes. The radial 165R13 fitment and the bias-ply 600-13 fitment are both built around the same 13-inch wheel diameter, even though the sizing formats are very different.
Wheel diameter is only the first part of fitment, so rim width still matters when selecting a tire. Some 165R13 radial options fit rims from 4.50 to 6.00 inches wide, while the 600-13 bias-ply options shown are intended for narrower 4.00 to 4.50 inch rims. Measuring the actual wheel is a smart next step.
Do all 1973 BMW 2002 sub-models use the same tire size?
No. The 1973 BMW 2002 Tii uses 165R13 radial tires, while the 1973 BMW 2002 Base & A can use either 165R13 radial tires or 600-13 bias-ply tires. The key difference is not wheel diameter, but which size and construction belong with the specific sub-model.
That distinction affects both appearance and tire selection. A buyer looking at a Tii can focus on 165R13 radial choices, while a Base & A owner may also consider period-style 600-13 bias-ply tires or a radial equivalent to that bias-ply size. Verifying the car’s current wheels and any past changes remains important.
Bias-Ply & Radial Options
Is 600-13 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1973 BMW 2002?
On the 1973 BMW 2002, 600-13 is a bias-ply tire size. It appears on the Base & A sub-model and represents the older numeric sizing format, while 165R13 is the radial fitment used across the range and the sole fitment for the Tii.
That difference matters because construction affects both presentation and tire choice. A 600-13 bias-ply setup suits a more traditional look, especially with the available whitewall styles, while a radial setup follows a more modern construction approach. Before changing from one type to the other, the wheel width and overall vehicle setup should be checked carefully.
What radial tire sizes are equivalent to 600-13?
Radial equivalents for 600-13 include 165R13 as the 80-series metric radial option, P165/75R13 as the P-metric 75-series radial option, and P175/70R13 as the P-metric 70-series radial option. No bias-look radial equivalent is associated with 600-13 here.
Those choices give different sizing formats while staying within the same general replacement conversation. A recommended rim-width range of 4 to 5 inches applies to the equivalent group, so wheel width should be confirmed before conversion. Overall dimensions and clearance should also be reviewed rather than assuming any equivalent will suit every individual car.
What should I check before converting my 1973 BMW 2002 from bias-ply to radial tires?
Start by confirming which sub-model the car is and which primary size belongs on it. If the car currently uses 600-13 bias-ply tires, the available radial equivalents are 165R13, P165/75R13, and P175/70R13, with a recommended rim-width range of 4 to 5 inches for that equivalent group.
The next step is to check the actual wheel width, the condition of the wheels, and the clearance around the suspension and body. Cars that have had wheel changes, suspension work, or alignment changes may respond differently to a construction change. Matching the tire to the car’s intended use and appearance goals is just as important as matching the size.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 165R13 tire for a 1973 BMW 2002?
The first consideration is whether 165R13 is the correct fitment for the specific car. It is the radial tire size used on the 1973 BMW 2002 Tii and also one of the fitments used on the Base & A, so confirming the sub-model and current wheel setup comes before comparing products.
Once the fitment is confirmed, the main comparison points are tire series, brand, blackwall appearance, and rim-width compatibility. Michelin XAS-FF, Michelin XAS, and Dunlop SP Sport Aquajet all appear in this size. Looking at intended road use, wheel width, and the type of classic driving feel desired will help narrow the right option.
What brands offer tires for the 1973 BMW 2002?
Tires for the 1973 BMW 2002 are available from Michelin, Dunlop, and BFGoodrich. Michelin and Dunlop cover the 165R13 radial fitment with blackwall tires, while BFGoodrich covers the 600-13 bias-ply fitment through the Silvertown Classic Bias Ply line.
Brand choice should be filtered through the correct size and construction first. After that, look at the tire series, sidewall style, and wheel-width compatibility for the specific size being considered. A radial-equipped Tii owner is choosing within a different product group than a Base & A owner considering 600-13 whitewall bias-ply tires.
What sidewall styles are available for 1973 BMW 2002 tires?
The available sidewall styles for the 1973 BMW 2002 include blackwall on the 165R13 radial fitment and both narrow whitewall and wide whitewall on the 600-13 bias-ply fitment. That creates a clear visual difference between the radial and bias-ply product groups.
Sidewall style affects the car’s presentation as much as the tire size itself. Blackwall radials suit a more European sporting appearance, while the whitewall bias-ply options lean toward a more traditional vintage look. The right choice depends on the exact sub-model, the wheel setup, and whether the goal is driving character, restoration flavor, or both.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1973 BMW 2002?
A period-style choice for a 1973 BMW 2002 starts with the correct size for the specific sub-model. The Tii uses 165R13 radial tires, while the Base & A can use either 165R13 radial tires or 600-13 bias-ply tires, so the intended setup needs to match the car first.
After that, appearance becomes a matter of construction and sidewall treatment. A blackwall 165R13 keeps the look closer to a classic European radial presentation, while a 600-13 bias-ply with whitewall treatment creates a distinctly different vintage impression. When exact originality matters, marque-specific historical references are worth checking before finalizing the tire choice.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1973 BMW 2002?
Tire construction changes the visual character of a restored 1973 BMW 2002 in a noticeable way. A 165R13 radial gives the car a classic Euro-sedan look with blackwall styling, while a 600-13 bias-ply introduces a more traditional profile and is available with narrow or wide whitewall treatment.
That means construction choice is about more than ride and handling alone. On a Base & A, either direction can shape the finished presentation differently, while the Tii remains centered on the radial fitment. Matching the tire to the restoration goal, wheel width, and the car’s actual sub-model will produce a more coherent result.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1973 BMW 2002?
Yes. Modifications can change how a tire fits on a 1973 BMW 2002 even when the size itself is appropriate for the model. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension changes, ride-height changes, and bodywork differences can all affect how a 165R13 or 600-13 tire sits and clears.
That is especially important when moving from a bias-ply setup to a radial equivalent or when the car has been changed over time. Checking actual wheel diameter and width, plus clearance at the fenders and steering components, is the practical way to avoid surprises. A stock-size tire does not override a modified chassis or wheel package.
What should I inspect before driving a 1973 BMW 2002 on new tires?
Before driving a 1973 BMW 2002 on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage or corrosion, confirm the rim diameter and width, and make sure the tires are mounted in the correct size and construction for the car. Tire pressure, valve stems, and visible clearance at the suspension and body should also be checked.
A short initial drive is a good time to listen for rubbing, feel for vibration, and recheck pressure afterward. On a collector car that may have sat for long periods, it also helps to inspect wheel bearings, brakes, and alignment condition. A fresh set of tires performs best when the rest of the running gear is ready for road use.
How should 165R13 or 600-13 tires on a collector 1973 BMW 2002 be maintained?
Collector-car tire care starts with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and keeping an eye on aging as much as tread wear. On a 1973 BMW 2002, both 165R13 radials and 600-13 bias-ply tires should be inspected for cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven wear, and slow air loss before and after periods of storage.
Storage conditions matter because classic cars often spend long stretches parked. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve the tires, and moving the vehicle occasionally can reduce long-term flat spotting. Any tire that shows age-related deterioration deserves closer inspection before regular road use.
