1973 Ford Bronco Tires

The 1973 Ford Bronco sits in the early SUV era, when compact four-wheel-drives were expected to handle ranch roads, trail use, and daily duty with equal ease. Its short-wheelbase design and no-nonsense character make tire choice especially important, because the right size affects both stance and practicality. This Bronco uses 15-inch bias-ply fitments, with size choice varying by GVWR and including E78-15, G78-15, L78-15, and 700-15. Available options range from traditional blackwalls and whitewalls to more truck-oriented tread series, and several sizes also have modern radial equivalents. The key is matching the Bronco’s exact sub-model and wheel setup before choosing between restoration-minded bias-ply tires and alternative radial sizing.

Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1973 Ford Bronco

The 1973 Ford Bronco uses four primary tire sizes, and the right one depends on the Bronco’s GVWR-based sub-model. All of these fitments are bias-ply tires for 15-inch wheels, so the first step is confirming which Bronco configuration you have rather than assuming every 1973 model used the same size. Once that is settled, the decision shifts to sidewall style, tire series, and whether a radial equivalent is worth evaluating for the sizes that offer one.

1
E78-15Vintage alphanumeric bias-ply
Fit(s): (GVWR 4300 & 4450)
Construction: Bias PlyRim: 15 in

E78-15 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size in which the letter marks the tire’s size class, the 78 identifies its profile family, and the 15 indicates a 15-inch rim. On a 1973 Ford Bronco, this is one of the lighter-duty primary fitments tied to specific GVWR coverage rather than every Bronco configuration. Radial equivalents are available in several modern sizing formats, which makes this size relevant for owners comparing traditional construction with a more current alternative. It is a useful fitment to verify carefully when maintaining the Bronco’s original-type wheel diameter and overall period presentation.

Explore E78-15 Tires
2
G78-15Vintage alphanumeric bias-ply
Fit(s): (GVWR 4300 & 4450) and (GVWR 4500 & 4900)
Construction: Bias PlyRim: 15 in

G78-15 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size, with the letter indicating the tire’s size class, the 78 designating the profile family, and the 15 referring to the wheel diameter. This size appears across both GVWR groupings for the 1973 Ford Bronco, making it one of the more broadly shared Bronco fitments. Product choices include Coker Classic and STA options, with blackwall and wide whitewall styles as well as more truck-oriented Super Traxion construction. It is a practical size to review when balancing traditional Bronco appearance, intended use, and possible radial-equivalent alternatives.

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3
L78-15Vintage alphanumeric bias-ply
Fit(s): (GVWR 4300 & 4450) and (GVWR 4500 & 4900)
Construction: Bias PlyRim: 15 in

L78-15 is another vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size, using a larger letter class than the smaller alphanumeric Bronco fitments while retaining the same 15-inch rim diameter. On the 1973 Ford Bronco, it serves particular GVWR-based applications and also opens up the widest product variety among the primary sizes shown here. Available choices include blackwall, wide whitewall, narrow whitewall, and dual-white-stripe treatments from Coker Classic, BFGoodrich, and STA across several tire series. This size deserves close attention when the goal is to match both the Bronco’s working character and a specific restoration-oriented look.

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4
700-15Numeric bias-ply
Fit(s): (GVWR 4500 & 4900)
Construction: Bias PlyRim: 15 in

700-15 is a numeric bias-ply size, where the leading number represents nominal section width in inches with the decimal omitted, making it approximately a 7.00-inch class tire on a 15-inch rim. For the 1973 Ford Bronco, this fitment appears on the higher-GVWR grouping rather than across the full model line. Product selection leans heavily toward truck and military-style blackwall tires, though Firestone and BFGoodrich whitewall options are also available in this size. It is an important size to verify against the Bronco’s actual wheel width and intended use before choosing a more road-oriented or utility-focused tire.

Explore 700-15 Tires

1973 Ford Bronco Sub-Model Tires

Sub-model fitment on the 1973 Ford Bronco is tied to GVWR group, so tire choice is not identical across every covered configuration. Checking the exact Bronco sub-model matters first, because some sizes are shared while others are unique to one GVWR range.

1

1973 Ford Bronco (GVWR 4300 & 4450)

The 1973 Ford Bronco (GVWR 4300 & 4450) uses alphanumeric bias-ply fitments rather than the 700-15 numeric size used on the heavier GVWR grouping. That gives the owner a choice among period-style bias-ply sizing with room to compare appearance, construction preferences, and any radial-equivalent options tied to those specific sizes.

Associated Tire Sizes
2

1973 Ford Bronco (GVWR 4500 & 4900)

The 1973 Ford Bronco (GVWR 4500 & 4900) shares G78-15 and L78-15 with the lighter GVWR group, but it also includes 700-15 as a primary fitment. That makes wheel confirmation and intended use especially important, since this Bronco grouping can point you toward either traditional passenger-style bias-ply choices or more truck-oriented tire series.

Associated Tire Sizes

Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1973 Ford Bronco

E78-15 has three radial-equivalent options: 185R15 as an 80-series metric radial, P195/75R15 as a 75-series P-metric radial, and P205/70R15 as a 70-series P-metric radial. G78-15 adds four choices: 205R15, P215/75R15, P225/70R15, and the 710R15 bias-look radial. L78-15 also has four: 235R15, P235/75R15, P255/70R15, and the 820R15 bias-look radial. These options move from traditional metric radial sizing to lower-profile P-metric alternatives, with bias-look radials aimed at a more vintage presentation; recommended rim-width ranges run 5-6 inches for E78-15 and 6-8 inches for G78-15 and L78-15, so wheel width and clearance should be checked before changing sizes.

Modern Radial Equivalents
  • 185R15

    Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (E78-15)

  • P195/75R15

    Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (E78-15)

  • P205/70R15

    Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (E78-15)

  • 205R15

    Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (G78-15)

  • P215/75R15

    Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (G78-15)

  • P225/70R15

    Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (G78-15)

  • 710R15

    Bias-look Radial Equivalent (G78-15)

  • 235R15

    Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (L78-15)

  • P235/75R15

    Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (L78-15)

  • P255/70R15

    Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (L78-15)

  • 820R15

    Bias-look Radial Equivalent (L78-15)

Important Considerations When Replacing Bias Ply With Radial
  • Compare overall diameter and section width carefully to ensure proper fit.
  • Verify recommended rim range (6-8 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:

  • Wheel modifications (wider rims, offset changes, aftermarket wheels)
  • 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 Ford Bronco Tires for Sale

Available 1973 Ford Bronco tire choices span Firestone, BFGoodrich, Coker Classic, and STA, with differences in sidewall style, tire series, and intended character. Depending on size, the mix ranges from whitewall and blackwall bias-ply tires to more truck-oriented military and highway patterns.

Showing 6 of 19
Bias Ply

Coker Classic 3.25 Inch Whitewall | G78-15

Coker Classic - Coker Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 7.00 in
WEIGHT26 lb
MAX LOAD1620@32 psi
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Bias Ply

Coker Classic 2.75 Inch Whitewall | G78-15

Coker Classic - Coker Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 7.00 in
WEIGHT26 lb
MAX LOAD1620@32 psi
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Military & Truck

STA Super Traxion | G78-15

STA - Super Traxion

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT32 lb
MAX LOAD—
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Bias Ply

Coker Classic | L78-15

Coker Classic - Coker Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.50 - 8.00 in
WEIGHT30 lb
MAX LOAD1970@32 psi
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Bias Ply

Coker Classic 3.00 Inch Whitewall | L78-15

Coker Classic - Coker Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.50 - 8.00 in
WEIGHT31 lb
MAX LOAD1970@32 psi
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Bias Ply

BFGoodrich 1.00 Inch Whitewall | L78-15

BFGoodrich - Silvertown Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.50 - 8.00 in
WEIGHT31 lb
MAX LOAD1970@32 psi
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Bias Ply

Coker Classic 4.00 Inch Whitewall | L78-15

Coker Classic - Coker Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.50 - 8.00 in
WEIGHT31 lb
MAX LOAD1970@32 psi
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Bias Ply

BFGoodrich Dual Stripe Cadillac Whitewall | L78-15

BFGoodrich - Silvertown Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLDual-White-Stripe
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.50 - 8.00 in
WEIGHT31 lb
MAX LOAD1970@32 psi
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Military & Truck

STA Super Traxion | L78-15

STA - Super Traxion

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT37 lb
MAX LOAD2400@65 psi
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Military & Truck

STA Transport Highway | L78-15

STA - Transport Highway

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT37 lb
MAX LOAD—
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Bias Ply

Firestone 4.125 Inch Whitewall | 700-15

Firestone - Firestone Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 5.50 in
WEIGHT29 lb
MAX LOAD1700@32 psi
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Bias Ply

Firestone | 700-15

Firestone - Firestone Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 5.50 in
WEIGHT26 lb
MAX LOAD1700@32 psi
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Bias Ply

BFGoodrich 4.125 Inch Whitewall | 700-15

BFGoodrich - Silvertown Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 5.50 in
WEIGHT28 lb
MAX LOAD1700@32 psi
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Military & Truck

STA Traxion | 700-15

STA - Traxion

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT30 lb
MAX LOAD—
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Military & Truck

Firestone Military | NDCC | 700-15

Firestone - Firestone Classic Military

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 5.50 in
WEIGHT25 lb
MAX LOAD1720@50 psi
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Military & Truck

STA Super Transport | 700-15 (Special Order)

STA - Super Transport

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 5.50 in
WEIGHT32 lb
MAX LOAD1720@50 psi
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Military & Truck

STA Transport Highway | 6 Ply Rated Tube Type | 700-15

STA - Transport Highway

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT29 lb
MAX LOAD—
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Military & Truck

STA Traxion | 700-15

STA - Traxion

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 5.50 in
WEIGHT30 lb
MAX LOAD1830@45 psi
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Military & Truck

STA Transport Highway | 8 Ply Rated Tubeless | 700-15

STA - Transport Highway

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER15 in
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT32 lb
MAX LOAD—
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Frequently Asked Questions

Tire questions for a 1973 Ford Bronco usually come down to sub-model fitment, 15-inch wheel compatibility, bias-ply sizing, radial-equivalent alternatives, and the difference between restoration-style tires and more work-oriented truck patterns.

Tire Size & Fitment

What tire size fits a 1973 Ford Bronco?

A 1973 Ford Bronco uses one of four primary bias-ply tire sizes: E78-15, G78-15, L78-15, or 700-15. The correct size depends on the Bronco’s GVWR-based sub-model, so there is not one universal tire size for every 1973 Bronco covered here.

The practical step is to confirm which GVWR grouping and wheel setup the Bronco has before choosing a tire. Since all of these sizes use a 15-inch rim, the difference is not wheel diameter alone, but which specific size family belongs on that configuration and whether the Bronco still has its original-style wheels.

What size rim does a 1973 Ford Bronco use?

The primary tire fitments for the 1973 Ford Bronco use a 15-inch rim diameter. That applies across E78-15, G78-15, L78-15, and 700-15, so the Bronco’s covered factory-style fitments stay within the same wheel diameter even though the tire sizes vary.

Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture, especially on an older Bronco that may have had wheel changes over the years. The actual wheel width should also be checked before selecting a tire, particularly if the Bronco has aftermarket wheels or if a radial equivalent is being considered in place of a primary bias-ply size.

Do all 1973 Ford Bronco sub-models use the same tire size?

No. The 1973 Ford Bronco has GVWR-based sub-model variation, so not every covered Bronco uses the same tire size. The 4300 and 4450 GVWR grouping uses E78-15, G78-15, and L78-15, while the 4500 and 4900 GVWR grouping uses 700-15, G78-15, and L78-15.

That overlap can make Bronco fitment seem simpler than it is, but 700-15 and E78-15 are not shared across both groupings. A buyer should identify the exact sub-model first, then confirm the wheel setup on the vehicle itself before choosing among passenger-style bias-ply tires, whitewall options, or more truck-oriented tread designs.

Bias-Ply & Radial Options

Is G78-15 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1973 Ford Bronco?

G78-15 is a primary bias-ply tire size for the 1973 Ford Bronco. It is one of the shared 15-inch Bronco fitments and appears in traditional bias-ply products as well as radial-equivalent sizing options intended for buyers who want to compare construction types.

That distinction matters because a bias-ply G78-15 keeps the original sizing format and traditional look, while a radial alternative changes the construction even if it stays in the same general fitment range. Anyone considering a conversion should verify wheel width, tire dimensions, and vehicle clearance instead of treating a radial equivalent as an automatic substitute.

What radial tire sizes are equivalent to G78-15 on a 1973 Ford Bronco?

Radial equivalents for G78-15 include 205R15 as an 80-series metric radial, P215/75R15 as a 75-series P-metric radial, P225/70R15 as a 70-series P-metric radial, and 710R15 as a bias-look radial. These alternatives keep the Bronco in a 15-inch radial-based fitment family while offering different sizing conventions.

Each of those options should be evaluated against the wheel and vehicle setup rather than chosen by label alone. G78-15 radial equivalents carry a recommended rim-width range of 6 to 8 inches, and the Bronco should also be checked for steering and fender clearance, especially if the suspension, wheels, or ride height have been changed.

What should I check before converting my 1973 Ford Bronco from bias-ply to radial tires?

Start by confirming the Bronco’s exact primary tire size, then match it to an actual radial equivalent that belongs to that size family. The wheel diameter must stay at 15 inches, and the wheel width should be checked against the recommended range for the equivalent radial under consideration.

A conversion also deserves a close look at overall tire dimensions, steering travel, suspension condition, and body clearance. An older Bronco may have aftermarket wheels, lift changes, or worn components that affect how a radial sits and moves in the wheel opening, so construction changes should be treated as a fitment review rather than a simple tire swap.

Choosing the Right Tire

What should I consider when choosing a G78-15 tire for a 1973 Ford Bronco?

A G78-15 tire for a 1973 Ford Bronco should first be chosen by confirming that G78-15 is the right primary size for the Bronco’s sub-model. From there, the decision comes down to intended use, sidewall appearance, and whether a traditional bias-ply tire or a radial equivalent better matches the vehicle’s role.

Available G78-15 choices include whitewall and blackwall presentations as well as a more truck-oriented STA Super Traxion option. That means a Bronco being restored for period style may call for a different tire character than one used for utility driving, even when the primary size itself stays the same.

What sidewall styles are available for 1973 Ford Bronco tires?

1973 Ford Bronco tire options include blackwall, wide whitewall, narrow whitewall, and dual-white-stripe sidewall treatments, depending on size. The widest variety appears in L78-15, while G78-15 and 700-15 also offer a mix of blackwall and whitewall choices.

Sidewall style affects the Bronco’s presentation more than many buyers expect, especially on a short-wheelbase utility vehicle where the tires are visually prominent. A blackwall usually leans more toward truck or off-road character, while whitewall or stripe treatments can create a more restoration-oriented look within the correct size family.

What brands offer tires for the 1973 Ford Bronco?

Tires for the 1973 Ford Bronco are available from Coker Classic, STA, Firestone, and BFGoodrich, depending on the size. Brand availability changes across G78-15, L78-15, and 700-15, so the correct tire size comes first and the brand choice follows from that fitment.

The brand decision is best made alongside tire series, sidewall treatment, and the Bronco’s intended use. Some options are clearly oriented toward traditional passenger-style bias-ply appearance, while others are more truck-focused in character, which makes it useful to compare the full tire specification instead of choosing by brand name alone.

Restoration & Appearance

Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1973 Ford Bronco?

A period-style 1973 Ford Bronco starts with the correct primary bias-ply size for its GVWR-based sub-model, then narrows the choice by sidewall and tire character. Depending on size, that can mean a blackwall utility look, a traditional whitewall presentation, or a more truck-oriented tread within the proper 15-inch fitment family.

The best visual match depends on how the Bronco is being interpreted rather than on one universal appearance rule. Owners aiming for higher-detail originality should compare the tire choice with vehicle-specific historical references, while buyers pursuing a restoration-oriented street presentation can focus on the right size and a sidewall style that suits the truck’s era.

How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1973 Ford Bronco?

Tire construction changes the look of a restored 1973 Ford Bronco because a bias-ply tire preserves the original sizing language and a traditional vintage profile, while a radial alternative introduces a more modern construction even when it stays close in overall fitment intent. That difference is visible before the Bronco even moves.

Appearance is only part of the decision, but it matters on an early Bronco where stance and sidewall shape define much of the vehicle’s character. A bias-look radial can help bridge that gap on sizes where one exists, though wheel width and clearance should still be confirmed before changing away from the primary bias-ply fitment.

Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use

Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1973 Ford Bronco?

Yes. Modifications can change tire fitment on a 1973 Ford Bronco even when the tire size itself is correct for the original application. Aftermarket wheels, different wheel widths, suspension lifts, ride-height changes, and body alterations can all influence how a 15-inch Bronco tire sits and clears.

That is especially important when comparing shared sizes such as G78-15 or L78-15 across different Broncos, because the tire may be correct in size but still unsuitable for a changed wheel or altered stance. Clearance at full steering lock and through suspension travel deserves attention before committing to a replacement tire.

What should I inspect before driving a 1973 Ford Bronco on new tires?

Before driving a 1973 Ford Bronco on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and condition, confirm that lug hardware seats properly, and make sure inflation is appropriate for the tire being used. A quick visual check for clearance around steering, suspension, and fender areas is also worthwhile.

An older Bronco should also be checked for worn steering or suspension components that could affect how the new tires behave on the road. After a short initial drive, recheck air pressure and look for any signs of rubbing, uneven seating, or interference, especially if the vehicle has not remained completely stock over the years.

How should 700-15 tires on a collector 1973 Ford Bronco be maintained?

700-15 tires on a collector 1973 Ford Bronco should be kept properly inflated, inspected regularly for cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven wear, and air loss, and protected from long periods of harsh sun or ozone exposure during storage. Low-mileage collector use does not prevent age-related tire deterioration.

Maintenance also includes checking the Bronco’s wheel condition and looking at how the tires wear over time, since old alignment or suspension issues often show up slowly on a vehicle that is driven only occasionally. A collector truck that sits for long stretches benefits from periodic inspection rather than waiting for the next outing.