1973 Nissan PL510 Tires

The 1973 Nissan PL510 uses two primary tire sizes: 165R13 in radial construction and 560-13 in bias-ply construction. Both are 13-inch tire sizes, but they are not the same type of fitment. The 165R13 follows a Euro-metric radial format, while the 560-13 uses an older numeric bias-ply sizing system.

The practical choice depends on how the car is set up now and what kind of result is wanted. A PL510 kept in a restoration-oriented, period-style presentation may lean toward 560-13, while a car already running radial-compatible wheels may point toward 165R13. Confirm the wheel width, current tire construction, and clearance before changing from one size system to the other.

The tire sizes used on the 1973 Nissan PL510 are built around a 13-inch rim diameter. That is true for both the 165R13 radial size and the 560-13 bias-ply size. Even though the constructions and sizing formats differ, the wheel diameter remains the same across those two fitment paths.

Rim diameter is only one part of the fitment picture, so it should not be treated as the whole answer. Wheel width still matters, especially because the available 165R13 and 560-13 products are designed around different rim-width ranges. Measuring the actual wheels on the car is a smart step if the PL510 has been changed from its earlier setup or fitted with aftermarket wheels.

Yes. The 1973 Nissan PL510 Sedan uses the same two primary size paths for this model year: 165R13 as a radial fitment and 560-13 as a bias-ply fitment. That means the fitment question is less about trim differences and more about which construction and wheel setup the car is using now.

That consistency makes selection easier, but it does not remove the need to inspect the car. A sedan wearing narrow original-style wheels may suit one type of tire differently than a sedan that has already been converted to a radial-friendly setup. Looking at current wheel width, the tire already on the car, and the intended appearance will help narrow the choice quickly.

On the 1973 Nissan PL510, 560-13 is a bias-ply tire size. It uses an older numeric sizing format rather than modern metric radial sizing. Available tires in this size follow that traditional construction style, including classic bias-ply series with narrow whitewall and wide whitewall sidewall treatments.

That matters because a bias-ply setup affects both appearance and wheel compatibility. Owners choosing 560-13 are usually preserving a traditional look rather than moving to a modernized radial presentation. Before switching away from it, compare the current wheel width, the condition of the suspension and steering components, and the amount of clearance available around the tire.

Radial equivalents for 560-13 include 155R13, P155/75R13, and P155/70R13. The 155R13 is the 80-series metric radial equivalent, P155/75R13 is the P-metric 75-series option, and P155/70R13 is the P-metric 70-series alternative. No bias-look radial equivalent is attached to 560-13 here.

Those equivalents provide several ways to compare a radial alternative to the original bias-ply size, but they should not be treated as automatic replacements. A recommended rim-width range of 4 to 5 inches applies to those radial equivalents. Checking wheel width, overall tire dimensions, and fender or steering clearance remains important before making the change.

Start by confirming the wheel diameter and wheel width on the car, then compare the intended radial size against the PL510's current tire and available space. For a car starting from 560-13 bias-ply tires, radial-equivalent options include 155R13, P155/75R13, and P155/70R13. The recommended rim-width range for those equivalents is 4 to 5 inches.

A conversion also deserves a close look at suspension condition, steering response, and clearance with the wheels turned and the car at normal ride height. Any aftermarket wheel, lowered stance, or brake change can alter what works cleanly. Owners keeping a strong period-style appearance often weigh that visual goal carefully before moving away from bias-ply construction.

The first consideration is choosing the correct size and construction path for the car: 165R13 radial or 560-13 bias-ply. After that, compare wheel width, sidewall style, tire series, and the overall visual direction you want. On this PL510, the two sizes do different jobs rather than simply offering interchangeable versions of the same tire.

A radial 165R13 setup points toward blackwall touring or sport-oriented classic tires, while 560-13 opens the door to traditional whitewall bias-ply choices. It also helps to compare product details such as rim-width specifications, tire weight, and load figures where available. Matching those details to the wheels and the car's intended use leads to a more informed choice.

The available sidewall styles for the 1973 Nissan PL510 include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall. Blackwall choices appear in the 165R13 radial size, while the 560-13 bias-ply size carries the whitewall options. That creates a clear appearance split between a cleaner radial look and a more traditional bias-ply presentation.

Sidewall style should be chosen alongside tire construction, not after it. A whitewall on a 560-13 tire can support a restoration-oriented look, while a blackwall 165R13 may better suit a simpler road-use setup or a sportier period impression. The wheel width on the car should still be confirmed first, since appearance only matters after fitment is correct.

Tires for the 1973 Nissan PL510 are available from Michelin, Dunlop, BFGoodrich, and Firestone. Michelin and Dunlop cover the 165R13 radial size, while BFGoodrich and Firestone offer 560-13 bias-ply options. That brand spread reflects the car's two different fitment directions rather than several brands competing within one identical tire type.

Brand choice makes more sense after size and construction have already been settled. A buyer comparing 165R13 tires may focus on Michelin XAS-family or Dunlop SP Sport Aquajet options, while someone selecting 560-13 will compare whitewall treatments and classic bias-ply series. The strongest comparison points are usually wheel compatibility, appearance, and intended use rather than brand name alone.

A period-style 1973 Nissan PL510 often points toward the 560-13 bias-ply size, especially when the goal is a more traditional visual presentation. That size is available in classic bias-ply series from BFGoodrich and Firestone and includes both narrow whitewall and wide whitewall treatments. It gives the car an earlier tire character than a blackwall radial setup.

The right choice still depends on how closely the car is being restored and what wheels are actually on it today. Some owners prioritize historical appearance, while others want a vintage look without giving up a radial-type setup. When exact originality matters, checking marque-specific references and comparing the tire to the car's wheel width is the safer approach.

Tire construction changes the visual stance of a restored 1973 Nissan PL510 more than many buyers expect. A 560-13 bias-ply tire carries an older sizing style and is available with whitewall treatments that create a more traditional presentation. A 165R13 radial uses a more modern metric format and appears here in blackwall form, which gives the car a different period impression.

That difference matters most on a compact sedan where wheel and tire proportions are easy to notice. Owners building a restoration-oriented car usually start by deciding whether they want traditional bias-ply character or a later radial look. Sidewall style, wheel width, and ride height all influence the final result, so the tire should be chosen as part of the full appearance plan.

Yes. Modifications can change tire fitment on a 1973 Nissan PL510 even when the tire size itself is correct on paper. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension changes, ride-height adjustments, and brake conversions can all affect how a 165R13 or 560-13 tire sits in the car. Clearance at the fender and steering components can change quickly on a compact chassis.

That is why the actual setup should be checked before choosing between the two primary sizes or before trying a radial equivalent to 560-13. Looking at wheel width, wheel position, and turning clearance is more useful than assuming the car still matches a stock configuration. A short inspection now can prevent rubbing, mismatch, or unwanted appearance changes later.

Before driving a 1973 Nissan PL510 on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and width, then confirm that the tires seat properly and clear the car through a full steering sweep. It also helps to check valve stems, lug hardware, tread seating, and inflation pressure. On an older compact, the surrounding suspension and steering condition matters almost as much as the tires themselves.

A careful once-over should include side-to-side clearance, signs of interference, and any uneven stance that could point to worn springs or bushings. Collector cars that sit for long periods also deserve a check for brake drag or alignment issues before the first real drive. Taking a slow initial road test can reveal rubbing, pull, vibration, or other setup problems early.

Collector-car tire maintenance for a 1973 Nissan PL510 starts with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and attention to age and storage conditions. Whether the car uses 165R13 radials or 560-13 bias-ply tires, low annual mileage does not stop rubber from aging. Sidewall cracking, cuts, bulges, flat spotting, and slow air loss all deserve attention before the car goes back on the road.

Storage habits make a real difference on a lightly used PL510. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps protect the tires between drives. It also helps to move the car periodically or maintain it properly during storage so one part of the tire is not loaded in the same position for too long.