1977 Plymouth Volare Tires

The 1977 Plymouth Volare sits squarely in the late-1970s American midsize market, a period when buyers were seeing the industry shift from traditional bias-ply tires toward radials across many everyday cars. That transition shows up clearly on the 1977 Plymouth Volare, which uses several 14-inch alphanumeric sizes depending on sub-model and engine combination, with both bias-ply and radial primary fitments in the mix. Some applications stay with D78-14, E78-14, or F78-14 bias-ply sizing, while others use DR78-14, ER78-14, or FR78-14 radials. The real key is matching the tire to the exact Volare configuration, then deciding how much period-style appearance, construction type, and road-use practicality matter.

Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1977 Plymouth Volare

The 1977 Plymouth Volare uses six primary tire sizes, and the right one depends on the exact sub-model and engine combination. All of them fit a 14-inch rim, but construction varies between bias-ply and radial, so the first step is confirming the specific Volare version and whether it calls for D78-14, DR78-14, E78-14, ER78-14, FR78-14, or F78-14 before comparing tire style or product choices.

1
D78-14Vintage alphanumeric bias-ply
Fit(s): Base & Custom w/225 & 318 Eng.
Construction: Bias PlyRim: 14 in

D78-14 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size in which the letter identifies the tire's size class, the 78 designates its profile family, and 14 indicates the wheel diameter in inches. As a bias-ply fitment for certain 1977 Plymouth Volare applications, it suits buyers who want to stay close to the vehicle's late-1970s transition-era tire character. Bias-ply construction also keeps the selection conversation focused on the proper application rather than modern metric substitution. This size should be chosen only after confirming the exact Volare configuration and wheel setup on the car.

Explore D78-14 Tires
2
DR78-14Alphanumeric radial
Fit(s): Base & Custom w/225 & 318 Eng. and Premier w/225 Eng.
Construction: RadialRim: 14 in

DR78-14 uses the same vintage letter-and-series style sizing, but the R marks it as a radial construction tire built for a 14-inch rim. On the 1977 Plymouth Volare, it belongs to specific sub-model and engine combinations that were fitted with radial sizing rather than a bias-ply counterpart. That makes construction an important part of the fitment decision, not just the width class on the sidewall. This size is worth evaluating carefully when the car is being kept in a more original-style radial format or when replacing an existing DR78-14 setup.

Explore DR78-14 Tires
3
E78-14Vintage alphanumeric bias-ply
Fit(s): Base & Custom w/360 Eng.
Construction: Bias PlyRim: 14 in

E78-14 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size, with the letter denoting the tire's general size class, the 78 indicating the profile family, and the final 14 showing rim diameter. For the 1977 Plymouth Volare, it appears on certain applications that use bias-ply construction rather than an ER78-14 radial. Available products include Coker Classic and STA offerings, with wide whitewall and blackwall sidewall styles across series such as Coker Classic Bias Ply, Traxion, and Transport Highway. Buyers considering E78-14 usually need to balance period-style appearance, intended use, and the exact vehicle configuration before settling on a tire.

Explore E78-14 Tires
4
ER78-14Alphanumeric radial
Fit(s): Base & Custom w/360 Eng., Premier w/225 Eng., and Premier w/318 & 360 Eng.
Construction: RadialRim: 14 in

ER78-14 is an alphanumeric radial size that keeps the vintage letter-and-series format while adding radial construction, with the 14 still representing wheel diameter. On the 1977 Plymouth Volare, this size appears across several sub-model combinations, making it one of the more important radial fitments to verify when replacing tires on a driver-oriented car. Its role is different from an E78-14 bias-ply application even though the two sizes are closely related in period sizing language. Choosing ER78-14 starts with confirming that the car actually uses this radial fitment and has the correct 14-inch wheel setup.

Explore ER78-14 Tires
5
FR78-14Alphanumeric radial
Fit(s): Premier w/318 & 360 Eng. and Wagon
Construction: RadialRim: 14 in

FR78-14 is a vintage alphanumeric radial size, where the F identifies the size class, the R signals radial construction, the 78 marks the profile family, and 14 is the rim diameter. For the 1977 Plymouth Volare, it is used on specific higher-capacity passenger-car applications rather than across the entire model range. That makes it important to separate this radial fitment from nearby F78-14 bias-ply use on other Volare configurations. Buyers should confirm the vehicle's exact sub-model and current wheel arrangement before treating FR78-14 as the correct replacement size.

Explore FR78-14 Tires
6
F78-14Vintage alphanumeric bias-ply
Fit(s): Wagon
Construction: Bias PlyRim: 14 in

F78-14 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size with an F width class, a 78-series profile family, and a 14-inch rim diameter. On the 1977 Plymouth Volare, it appears on wagon applications that use a larger bias-ply fitment than the smaller D- and E-series sizes. A Coker Classic Bias Ply option is available in this size with a wide whitewall presentation, giving restoration-oriented buyers a distinctly traditional look, and modern radial equivalents also exist for buyers considering an alternate construction path. This size deserves careful review when appearance goals and road-use expectations both matter.

Explore F78-14 Tires

1977 Plymouth Volare Sub-Model Tires

Tire fitment on the 1977 Plymouth Volare is not one-size-fits-all, because both tire size and construction vary by sub-model and engine combination. Checking the exact Volare version matters first, especially since some applications pair a bias-ply size with a radial counterpart while others use only radial choices.

1

1977 Plymouth Volare Base & Custom w/225 & 318 Eng.

This Volare configuration uses either D78-14 bias-ply or DR78-14 radial sizing on a 14-inch wheel. That makes construction part of the fitment decision, so replacing existing tires starts with confirming whether the car is staying with its current setup or being evaluated for a like-for-like change.

Associated Tire Sizes
2

1977 Plymouth Volare Base & Custom w/360 Eng.

This application moves up to the E-size family, with E78-14 bias-ply and ER78-14 radial fitments. Tire selection here means verifying which construction is on the car now, then comparing period-style bias-ply options or considering the radial sizing path that belongs to this sub-model.

Associated Tire Sizes
3

1977 Plymouth Volare Premier w/225 Eng.

The Premier with the 225 engine uses radial tire fitments rather than a bias-ply and radial pairing in the same size family. Choosing tires for this version means confirming whether the car uses DR78-14 or ER78-14, then selecting around the proper radial size and 14-inch wheel compatibility.

Associated Tire Sizes
4

1977 Plymouth Volare Premier w/318 & 360 Eng.

This Premier configuration uses radial tire sizing, with ER78-14 and FR78-14 as the relevant fitments. The main priority is identifying the exact application and wheel setup so the replacement tire stays within the proper radial size range for the car.

Associated Tire Sizes
5

1977 Plymouth Volare Wagon

The Volare Wagon uses the larger F-size family, with F78-14 bias-ply and FR78-14 radial fitments. That gives wagon owners a clear construction choice to think through, especially if the goal is balancing a traditional look with the practical considerations of a radial-equipped road car.

Associated Tire Sizes

Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1977 Plymouth Volare

E78-14 and F78-14 both have radial-equivalent options for the 1977 Plymouth Volare. E78-14 can be compared with 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. F78-14 maps to 195R14, P205/75R14, P215/70R14, and 750R14 as a bias-look radial equivalent. These choices vary by sizing convention and profile style, and the noted 4-6 inch rim-width range should be checked along with wheel compatibility and vehicle clearance before changing size or construction.

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)

  • 195R14

    Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (F78-14)

  • P205/75R14

    Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (F78-14)

  • P215/70R14

    Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (F78-14)

  • 750R14

    Bias-look Radial Equivalent (F78-14)

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:

  • 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 1977 Plymouth Volare Tires for Sale

Available 1977 Plymouth Volare tire choices center on bias-ply E78-14 and F78-14 products from Coker Classic and STA. The selection includes wide whitewall and blackwall styles across Coker Classic Bias Ply, Traxion, and Transport Highway series, with rim-width and load specifications worth comparing closely.

Showing 4 of 4
Bias Ply

Coker Classic 2.375 Inch Whitewall | E78-14

Coker Classic - Coker Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH4.50 - 7.00 in
WEIGHT23 lb
MAX LOAD1400@32 psi
Buy Now
Bias Ply

STA Traxion 8 Ply Rated Tubeless | E78-14

STA - Traxion

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH5.0 - 6.0 in
WEIGHT28 lb
MAX LOADSingle Load: 1,710lbs@60 psi Dual Load: 1,500 lbs@60psi
Buy Now
Military & Truck

STA Transport Highway | E78-14

STA - Transport Highway

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT28 lb
MAX LOAD—
Buy Now
Bias Ply

Coker Classic 2.375 Inch Whitewall | F78-14

Coker Classic - Coker Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 7.00 in
WEIGHT24 lb
MAX LOAD1500@32 psi
Buy Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Common 1977 Plymouth Volare tire questions usually come down to exact size by sub-model, 14-inch rim fitment, bias-ply versus radial construction, and how to choose between period-style appearance and practical road-use needs.

Tire Size & Fitment

What tire size fits a 1977 Plymouth Volare?

A 1977 Plymouth Volare can use D78-14, DR78-14, E78-14, ER78-14, FR78-14, or F78-14, depending on the exact sub-model and engine combination. The size range also includes both bias-ply and radial primary fitments, so the correct answer is tied to the specific Volare configuration rather than the model name alone.

The most important next step is confirming the exact sub-model and what is currently on the car. Since every primary fitment uses a 14-inch rim, the real risk is choosing the wrong letter-series size or the wrong construction type for the application, especially on cars that could use either a bias-ply or radial setup.

What size rim does a 1977 Plymouth Volare use?

The 1977 Plymouth Volare uses 14-inch rims across its primary tire fitments. That applies whether the car is using a bias-ply size such as D78-14, E78-14, or F78-14, or a radial size such as DR78-14, ER78-14, or FR78-14.

Rim diameter is only the first check, because a 14-inch wheel does not automatically make every Volare tire size appropriate. Wheel width, the exact sub-model, and whether the car is equipped for a bias-ply or radial size still need to be matched before selecting a replacement tire or evaluating a radial equivalent.

Do all 1977 Plymouth Volare sub-models use the same tire size?

No, 1977 Plymouth Volare sub-models do not all use the same tire size. Depending on the version, the car may use D78-14 or DR78-14, E78-14 or ER78-14, ER78-14 or FR78-14, or F78-14 or FR78-14, so both size family and construction can change across the range.

That variation matters because a tire chosen for one Volare application may not be the right choice for another, even though the wheels are all 14-inch. Matching the exact sub-model and engine combination first helps avoid ordering a tire that looks close in size language but belongs to a different fitment group.

Bias-Ply & Radial Options

Should I use bias-ply or radial tires on a 1977 Plymouth Volare?

A 1977 Plymouth Volare was fitted with both bias-ply and radial primary tire sizes, depending on the exact sub-model and engine combination. That means the right construction starts with the specific application on the car, not with a blanket rule for every Volare.

The choice often comes down to how the car will be used and how closely the owner wants to stay with a period-style presentation. Construction changes should be approached carefully by checking the exact tire size, wheel width, and available clearance, especially if the car has been altered from its original wheel or suspension setup.

What radial tire sizes are equivalent to E78-14 and F78-14?

For E78-14, radial equivalents include 185R14, P195/75R14, and P205/70R14. For F78-14, radial equivalents include 195R14, P205/75R14, P215/70R14, and 750R14, with 750R14 serving as a bias-look radial alternative rather than a bias-ply tire.

These equivalents give buyers several sizing formats to compare, from Euro-metric 80-series style options to P-metric 75- and 70-series alternatives. The suggested 4-6 inch rim-width range is an important checkpoint, and the final choice still needs to be reviewed against wheel compatibility and the car's actual clearance.

What should I check before converting my 1977 Plymouth Volare from bias-ply to radial tires?

Start by confirming that the radial size being considered is an actual equivalent for the Volare's primary bias-ply size. E78-14 and F78-14 both have radial-equivalent options, but D78-14 fitments should not be treated the same way unless the exact application and available tire choices are fully verified first.

A careful conversion review should include wheel diameter, wheel width, current ride height, and any signs that the car has aftermarket wheels or suspension changes. Clearance at the fenders and steering range also matters, because an equivalent size is a comparison point, not an automatic interchange for every individual vehicle.

Choosing the Right Tire

What should I consider when choosing a 1977 Plymouth Volare tire?

The first consideration is matching the tire to the correct Volare sub-model and engine combination, since this car uses several different 14-inch sizes in both bias-ply and radial construction. After that, the key factors become sidewall style, tire series, rim-width compatibility, and how the car will actually be driven.

A period-style weekend car may lead the buyer toward a traditional bias-ply presentation, while a road-use-focused car may center on staying within its proper radial fitment. The best comparison process is to confirm size first, then narrow choices by construction, appearance, and any product specifications that affect the intended use.

What sidewall styles are available for 1977 Plymouth Volare tires?

Available sidewall styles for 1977 Plymouth Volare tire options include wide whitewall and blackwall. The wide whitewall treatment appears in Coker Classic bias-ply offerings, while blackwall choices appear in STA applications within the E78-14 size range.

Sidewall style changes the visual character of the car even when the tire size stays the same. A wide whitewall tends to emphasize a more traditional or restoration-oriented look, while a blackwall keeps the presentation simpler and more utilitarian, so appearance can be a major part of the final decision once fitment is confirmed.

What brands offer tires for the 1977 Plymouth Volare?

1977 Plymouth Volare tire options in the covered product range come from Coker Classic and STA. Those brands appear in bias-ply E78-14 and F78-14 selections, with differences in sidewall style, tire series, rim-width specifications, and load-related details depending on the individual tire.

Brand comparison is most useful after the correct size has been established. Instead of treating the choice as brand alone, look at how each tire is built for the intended job, whether the appearance suits the car, and whether the rim-width and load specifications line up with the way the Volare will be used.

Restoration & Appearance

Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1977 Plymouth Volare?

A period-style 1977 Plymouth Volare tire choice starts with the exact original fitment family for the car's sub-model, then stays within the proper bias-ply or radial construction used for that application. Sizes such as D78-14, E78-14, and F78-14 preserve the late-1970s alphanumeric bias-ply presentation where those fitments apply.

Appearance goals should be balanced against how the car will actually be driven. For a closer restoration-style look, the sidewall treatment and construction can matter as much as the size itself, and buyers pursuing exact historical authenticity should compare the tire choice with marque-specific references for their particular Volare configuration.

How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1977 Plymouth Volare?

Tire construction can noticeably change the look of a restored 1977 Plymouth Volare even when the wheel diameter remains the same. A bias-ply tire tends to preserve a more traditional late-1970s visual character, while a radial in the proper alphanumeric format keeps the period size language but presents the car differently.

That visual difference matters most on a car where stance, sidewall shape, and sidewall styling are part of the restoration plan. Choosing between bias-ply and radial should therefore be treated as both a fitment decision and an appearance decision, especially on a Volare being finished with strong attention to era-appropriate detail.

Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use

Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1977 Plymouth Volare?

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1977 Plymouth Volare even when the car still uses a 14-inch wheel. Aftermarket wheel width, wheel offset, ride-height changes, replacement springs, or body alterations can all change how much room the tire has at the fender, suspension, and steering points.

That matters even more when comparing different Volare size families or considering a radial equivalent for an E78-14 or F78-14 application. Any car that has been altered should be checked carefully at full steering travel and under normal loaded height so the chosen tire matches the vehicle's actual setup, not just its catalog fitment.

What should I inspect before driving a 1977 Plymouth Volare on new tires?

Before driving a 1977 Plymouth Volare on new tires, inspect wheel condition, confirm the wheel diameter and width, and make sure the tires are inflated appropriately for their application. It is also smart to look over suspension components, steering parts, and brake hardware so the new tires are not being asked to compensate for worn chassis parts.

A slow first road test helps confirm that the tires clear properly and that nothing rubs during turning or over bumps. On a collector-era car, it is equally important to recheck pressure after the first drive and keep an eye out for uneven wear, vibration, or signs that the selected size is not suited to the car's present setup.

How should tires on a collector 1977 Plymouth Volare be maintained?

Tires on a collector 1977 Plymouth Volare should be checked regularly for pressure, cracking, bulges, cuts, and unusual tread wear, especially if the car spends long periods parked. Low-use cars can age tires without putting many miles on them, so visual condition and air retention matter just as much as tread depth.

Storage habits also make a difference. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve the tire's condition, and occasional inspection of the wheel and valve area can catch small issues before a longer drive. Any tire showing age-related deterioration deserves professional evaluation before road use.