The 1974 American Motors Hornet sits in the practical, compact end of the mid-1970s American car market, but it still carries the kind of straightforward character that makes preserved and restored AMC models especially interesting today. Whether the car is a six-cylinder, V8, or wagon, tire choice matters because this Hornet uses 14-inch bias-ply fitments in either 695-14 or C78-14. That creates an important decision between staying with a traditional bias-ply presentation or evaluating one of the available radial equivalents. Sidewall treatment also changes the look noticeably, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual-redline, and raised white letter styles all shaping the car's final appearance.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1974 American Motors Hornet
The 1974 American Motors Hornet uses two primary tire sizes: 695-14 and C78-14. Both are bias-ply sizes mounted on 14-inch rims, and the same fitment choices appear across the covered Hornet sub-models. That means the main decision is less about sub-model separation and more about understanding the two vintage sizing systems, then choosing the tire style, brand, and construction approach that best matches the car's appearance and intended road use.
A 695-14 is a numeric bias-ply size, with the 6.95 designation referring to the tire's nominal section width in inches and the 14 identifying the wheel diameter. On a 1974 American Motors Hornet, it keeps the traditional bias-ply construction and look associated with period-style replacement tires. This size is available from BFGoodrich, US Royal, and Goodyear in series such as Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, US Royal Classic Bias Ply, Blue Streak, and Power Cushion, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual-redline, and raised white letter treatments. It is a strong choice when appearance and vintage tire character are central to the project.
C78-14 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size, where the letter marks the size class, the 78 identifies the profile family, and the 14 indicates the wheel diameter. For the 1974 American Motors Hornet, this is another traditional 14-inch bias-ply fitment rather than a modern radial primary size. It matters mainly to owners who want to stay within a period-style sizing convention while preserving the original visual character of the car. Before choosing between C78-14 and 695-14, confirm the actual wheel setup on the car and make sure the selected size matches the Hornet's current fitment.
Tire fitment is straightforward across the covered 1974 American Motors Hornet sub-models, because each one uses the same two primary 14-inch bias-ply size options. Checking the exact sub-model still helps confirm that the car has not been altered with different wheels or a non-stock tire setup over time.
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1974 American Motors Hornet 6 Cyl.
The 1974 American Motors Hornet 6 Cyl. uses the same pair of primary 14-inch bias-ply fitments found elsewhere in the Hornet range. That keeps the selection focused on vintage sizing preference, sidewall style, and whether to remain with bias-ply construction or compare a radial equivalent carefully.
The 1974 American Motors Hornet 8 Cyl. shares the same 14-inch bias-ply tire sizing choices as the other covered Hornet sub-models. Tire selection comes down to the look and driving character you want, along with verifying that the wheels on the car still match the intended fitment.
The 1974 American Motors Hornet Wagon follows the same primary 14-inch bias-ply size pattern as the sedan-based Hornet sub-models. That makes the decision less about body configuration and more about selecting the right vintage tire presentation and confirming wheel compatibility before any construction change.
Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1974 American Motors Hornet
Both 695-14 and C78-14 have three radial-equivalent options. Each can be compared to 175R14 as an 80-series metric radial, P185/75R14 as a 75-series P-metric radial, and P195/70R14 as a lower-profile 70-series P-metric radial. These choices move from older metric convention to modern P-metric sizing while keeping the original 14-inch wheel diameter in the discussion. A 4-6 inch rim-width range is associated with these equivalents, and overall dimensions, wheel width, and clearance should still be checked before changing from the original bias-ply fitment.
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 1974 American Motors Hornet Tires for Sale
Available 695-14 products give the 1974 American Motors Hornet a wide spread of bias-ply choices from BFGoodrich, US Royal, and Goodyear. Buyers can compare tire series such as Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, US Royal Classic Bias Ply, Blue Streak, and Power Cushion, along with blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual-redline, and raised white letter sidewall styles.
Common 1974 American Motors Hornet tire questions usually center on the two primary 14-inch bias-ply sizes, radial-equivalent alternatives, and how to choose the right sidewall style and tire series for the way the car is being restored or driven.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1974 American Motors Hornet?
A 1974 American Motors Hornet uses two primary tire sizes: 695-14 and C78-14. Both are bias-ply fitments for 14-inch wheels, and those same size choices appear across the covered Hornet 6 Cyl., 8 Cyl., and Wagon sub-models.
That means the first step is checking which size is actually on the car now, especially if it has been in service for many years or has changed hands several times. Once that is confirmed, the real choice becomes selecting the right vintage sizing format, sidewall style, and whether to stay with the original bias-ply construction or compare a radial equivalent carefully.
What size rim does a 1974 American Motors Hornet use?
The primary tire fitments for the 1974 American Motors Hornet use a 14-inch rim diameter. Both 695-14 and C78-14 are built around that same wheel diameter, so the Hornet's factory-style tire discussion stays centered on 14-inch wheels.
Rim diameter is only part of the picture, though, because wheel width also affects which tire options make sense. A Hornet that has been changed to aftermarket wheels, later AMC wheels, or a wider custom setup should have its actual wheel dimensions checked before choosing between bias-ply replacements or one of the available radial-equivalent sizes.
Do all 1974 American Motors Hornet sub-models use the same tire size?
The covered 1974 American Motors Hornet sub-models share the same two primary tire size options: 695-14 and C78-14. That includes the 6 Cyl., 8 Cyl., and Wagon versions, all using 14-inch bias-ply fitments rather than separate sub-model-specific primary sizes.
Shared fitment makes the search easier, but it does not remove the need to inspect the individual car. A Hornet that has been modified over the years may no longer be running its original wheel width or tire construction, so matching the new tire to the wheel on the car remains just as important as matching it to the model name.
Bias-Ply & Radial Options
Is 695-14 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1974 American Motors Hornet?
On a 1974 American Motors Hornet, 695-14 is a primary bias-ply tire size. It uses the older numeric sizing system and belongs to the traditional bias-ply fitment family for this car rather than representing a modern radial size.
That matters because keeping a 695-14 bias-ply tire preserves the vintage construction and the traditional sidewall choices available in that size. Owners considering a radial alternative should treat that as a separate conversion decision, then compare wheel width, overall tire dimensions, and clearance rather than assuming every 14-inch radial equivalent will behave the same on the car.
What radial tire sizes are equivalent to 695-14?
Radial equivalents for 695-14 include 175R14 as an 80-series metric radial, P185/75R14 as a 75-series P-metric radial, and P195/70R14 as a 70-series P-metric radial. Those are the usable radial alternatives associated with the original 695-14 bias-ply size.
Each of those equivalents keeps the discussion on a 14-inch wheel, but they use different sizing conventions and profile families. A 4-6 inch rim-width range is associated with these radial equivalents, and the final choice should still be checked against the Hornet's wheel width, stance, steering travel, and body clearance before any move away from the original bias-ply setup.
What should I check before converting my 1974 American Motors Hornet from bias-ply to radial tires?
Start by confirming the Hornet's current tire size, wheel diameter, and actual wheel width, then compare the intended radial equivalent to that setup. For 695-14 or C78-14, the available radial-equivalent sizes are 175R14, P185/75R14, and P195/70R14, with a 4-6 inch rim-width range tied to those alternatives.
The next step is evaluating the car itself, not just the size label. Steering clearance, suspension condition, ride height, and any past wheel changes can all affect whether a radial alternative remains appropriate, and a low-use collector Hornet should also have its wheels inspected carefully before the construction change is made.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 695-14 tire for a 1974 American Motors Hornet?
The main factors are staying with the correct 14-inch fitment, choosing a bias-ply tire that suits the car's intended appearance, and selecting a series and sidewall style that match the project. In 695-14, available choices include blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual-redline, raised white letter, and raised white letter with blue stripe styles.
Brand and series differences also shape the decision, with BFGoodrich, US Royal, and Goodyear offerings covering Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, US Royal Classic Bias Ply, Blue Streak, and Power Cushion lines. It helps to decide early whether the Hornet is being restored for a traditional street presentation, a sportier period look, or a more individualized appearance.
What sidewall styles are available for 1974 American Motors Hornet tires?
For 695-14 applications on a 1974 American Motors Hornet, available sidewall styles include blackwall, narrow whitewall, dual-redline, raised white letter, and raised white letter with blue stripe. Those options can change the car's visual character significantly even when the basic tire size stays the same.
A blackwall keeps the presentation simple and restrained, while narrow whitewalls or dual redlines lean more toward a period-oriented look. Raised white letter styles create a more performance-flavored appearance, so the best choice depends less on the Hornet nameplate alone and more on how the individual car is being finished and used.
What brands offer tires for the 1974 American Motors Hornet?
Available 695-14 tires for the 1974 American Motors Hornet come from BFGoodrich, US Royal, and Goodyear. Those brands cover several distinct tire series, giving Hornet owners a useful range of bias-ply choices without moving away from the primary vintage size.
The selection process is less about finding a universally better brand and more about comparing the specific tire's sidewall style, series character, and wheel-width compatibility. Looking closely at whether the car needs a subdued blackwall, a whitewall treatment, dual redlines, or a raised white letter look will narrow the field much faster than brand name alone.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1974 American Motors Hornet?
A period-style 1974 American Motors Hornet usually starts with one of its original-type 14-inch bias-ply sizes, either 695-14 or C78-14. Staying with bias-ply construction preserves the vintage tire profile and opens the door to classic sidewall presentations such as blackwall, narrow whitewall, or dual-redline.
The right choice depends on how closely the car is being restored and what visual impression is intended. Owners chasing exact historical accuracy should compare the tire choice against marque references, period photos, or build-specific documentation, while drivers aiming for a restoration-oriented look can focus more on the overall style and stance.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1974 American Motors Hornet?
Tire construction changes more than ride feel on a restored 1974 American Motors Hornet; it also affects the visual impression of the car. A bias-ply tire keeps the traditional presentation associated with older sizing systems like 695-14 and C78-14, while a modern radial alternative introduces a more contemporary tire format.
That visual difference matters on a compact AMC where wheel and tire proportion is easy to notice. Owners restoring for show, marque events, or a distinctly vintage street appearance often keep the bias-ply look in mind first, then choose sidewall treatment carefully so the tire complements the body style and trim without overpowering the car.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1974 American Motors Hornet?
Yes, modifications can change tire fitment on a 1974 American Motors Hornet even when the original tire discussion starts with 695-14 or C78-14. Different wheel widths, aftermarket 14-inch wheels, suspension changes, or body alterations can all affect how a replacement bias-ply or radial-equivalent tire sits on the car.
That is why the actual wheel and chassis setup should be checked before making a final tire choice. A Hornet with altered ride height or non-original wheels may need closer attention to inner clearance, outer fender room, and steering movement than a car that still carries its original-style dimensions.
What should I inspect before driving a 1974 American Motors Hornet on new tires?
Before driving a 1974 American Motors Hornet on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage or corrosion, confirm that the tire size matches the wheel diameter, and make sure the tires are inflated appropriately for the application. It also helps to check lug hardware, valve stems, and basic suspension condition at the same time.
A short, careful road test is a smart next step, especially on a collector car that may have spent long periods parked. During that first drive, pay attention to steering response, any rubbing at full lock, vibration, and whether the car tracks evenly, since those signs can reveal wheel or fitment issues unrelated to the tire itself.
How should 695-14 tires on a collector 1974 American Motors Hornet be maintained?
Collector-car 695-14 tires on a 1974 American Motors Hornet should be inspected regularly for cracking, cuts, bulges, uneven wear, and pressure loss, even if the car is driven only occasionally. Low annual mileage does not stop tires from aging, so condition matters just as much as remaining tread depth.
Storage habits also play a major role in tire life on an older Hornet. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve the rubber, and routine pressure checks before each outing are worthwhile because a collector vehicle can sit long enough for a slow air loss to go unnoticed.
