The 1978 Ford Granada came from an era when American midsize cars balanced formal styling, everyday comfort, and a growing move toward more modern road manners. Granada buyers often wanted a car that felt more upscale than basic transportation, and today these cars appeal to owners preserving a distinctly late-1970s look and driving character. Tire fitment for the 1978 Ford Granada centers on radial construction, with DR78-14, ER78-14, and FR78-14 sizes depending on the specific sub-model. That gives owners a fitment-first decision that may also involve sidewall appearance and overall tire presentation. The right choice starts with the exact Granada configuration and the 14-inch wheel already on the car.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1978 Ford Granada
The 1978 Ford Granada uses three primary tire sizes, and the correct one depends on the specific sub-model rather than a change in basic construction or wheel diameter. All three are radial tires designed for 14-inch rims, so the key first step is confirming whether the car is a sedan, ESS, or Ghia and then matching the tire size to that configuration.
Fit(s): 2 Dr. Sedan 6 Cyl., 2 Dr. Sedan V8, 4 Dr. Sedan 6 Cyl., and 4 Dr. Sedan V8
Construction: Radial|Rim: 14 in
DR78-14 is a vintage alphanumeric radial size in which the letter-based code identifies the tire's size class, the R denotes radial construction, and 14 indicates a 14-inch rim. On the 1978 Ford Granada, this size suits certain sedan configurations and reflects the period shift toward radial fitments on mainstream American cars. Its value today is maintaining the proper sizing language and overall character expected on a late-1970s Granada. This is the size to evaluate when the car is one of the sedan sub-models that calls for the smaller of the Granada's radial options.
Fit(s): 2 Dr. Sedan 6 Cyl., 2 Dr. Sedan V8, 4 Dr. Sedan 6 Cyl., 4 Dr. Sedan V8, and Ghia
Construction: Radial|Rim: 14 in
ER78-14 follows the same vintage alphanumeric radial sizing system, with the letter code indicating size class, radial construction built into the designation, and a 14-inch wheel requirement. For the 1978 Ford Granada, it appears across several sedan versions and also on the Ghia, making it one of the most broadly used Granada tire sizes for this model year. It represents a middle fitment point within the Granada range rather than a separate construction type. Buyers considering ER78-14 should focus on the exact sub-model and the visual style they want the car to carry.
FR78-14 is another vintage alphanumeric radial size, with the letter code marking a larger size class, the R confirming radial construction, and the 14 identifying rim diameter. On the 1978 Ford Granada, this size is used by the ESS and also appears on the Ghia, so it is not universal across the full model line. It is the Granada's largest primary size in this fitment group and fits the more size-specific sub-models within the range. Choosing FR78-14 starts with confirming that the car's sub-model and wheel setup call for this larger 14-inch radial.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 1978 Ford Granada because tire sizing is not the same across the entire lineup. Most sedan versions share DR78-14 and ER78-14 choices, while the ESS and Ghia move the decision toward larger fitment possibilities that should be matched to the exact car.
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1978 Ford Granada 2 Dr. Sedan 6 Cyl.
The 1978 Ford Granada 2 Dr. Sedan 6 Cyl. uses DR78-14 and ER78-14 radial tire sizes on 14-inch rims. That means tire selection begins with confirming which of those two sizes matches the car's present wheel and fitment setup before comparing appearance and construction details.
The 1978 Ford Granada 2 Dr. Sedan V8 also uses DR78-14 and ER78-14 radial sizes rather than a single universal fitment. Owners should confirm which size belongs on the car before choosing among available tire presentations suited to a late-1970s Granada.
The 1978 Ford Granada 4 Dr. Sedan 6 Cyl. shares the same two-size radial fitment pattern found on other sedan versions, using DR78-14 or ER78-14. The practical takeaway is to identify the exact size already associated with the car's wheel setup instead of assuming every 4-door Granada used the same tire.
The 1978 Ford Granada 4 Dr. Sedan V8 uses DR78-14 and ER78-14 radial sizes on 14-inch wheels. Buyers should verify which of the two applies to the vehicle before focusing on appearance, sidewall style, and the overall look they want from a proper period-style replacement.
The 1978 Ford Granada ESS uses FR78-14 as its radial tire size, making it the most size-specific Granada sub-model in this group. That simplifies the selection process, but it still makes wheel confirmation worthwhile if the car has been changed from its original-style setup over the years.
The 1978 Ford Granada Ghia uses ER78-14 and FR78-14 radial tire sizes, giving it a broader fitment window than the ESS but a different pattern than the standard sedans. Tire choice starts with confirming which of those two sizes matches the Ghia's actual wheels and overall stance.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions for the 1978 Ford Granada usually center on identifying the right DR78-14, ER78-14, or FR78-14 fitment by sub-model, understanding the vintage radial sizing system, and checking wheel setup, appearance goals, and road-use readiness before installation.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1978 Ford Granada?
A 1978 Ford Granada uses one of three primary radial tire sizes: DR78-14, ER78-14, or FR78-14. The correct size depends on the specific Granada sub-model, with sedan versions using DR78-14 or ER78-14, the ESS using FR78-14, and the Ghia using ER78-14 or FR78-14.
That means the first step is not choosing a brand or sidewall style but confirming the exact sub-model and the wheels currently on the car. Granada fitment stays within a 14-inch rim family, but the size code still matters for proper period-style sizing and overall compatibility with the vehicle's setup.
What size rim does a 1978 Ford Granada use?
The 1978 Ford Granada uses 14-inch rims with its primary tire fitments. DR78-14, ER78-14, and FR78-14 all share the same 14-inch rim diameter, so the wheel diameter itself stays consistent even though tire size can vary by sub-model.
That consistency helps narrow the search, but it does not mean every 14-inch tire in the Granada range belongs on every car. The owner should still confirm the actual tire size called for by the sub-model and check the wheel's width and overall condition before mounting replacement tires.
Do all 1978 Ford Granada sub-models use the same tire size?
No, 1978 Ford Granada sub-models do not all use the same tire size. Sedan models use DR78-14 or ER78-14, the ESS uses FR78-14, and the Ghia uses ER78-14 or FR78-14, so fitment changes within the Granada lineup even though all of the primary sizes are radial 14-inch tires.
That variation is why a buyer should identify the exact sub-model before selecting a replacement tire. It is also smart to confirm the wheels actually on the car, since many older vehicles have been changed over time and a present-day setup may not match the original-style configuration.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a DR78-14, ER78-14, or FR78-14 tire for a 1978 Ford Granada?
Start with the exact tire size that matches the 1978 Ford Granada sub-model, because DR78-14, ER78-14, and FR78-14 are not interchangeable fitments across the whole range. All three are vintage alphanumeric radial sizes for 14-inch rims, so the main selection issue is getting the correct size before comparing appearance or tire line.
After confirming size, look at the car's intended use and the presentation you want from it. A regularly driven Granada, a preservation-minded sedan, and a more appearance-focused ESS or Ghia may all lead the owner to different priorities in ride character, sidewall style, and overall period feel.
How do I choose between the available DR78-14, ER78-14, and FR78-14 tires for a 1978 Ford Granada?
The best way to choose among available 1978 Ford Granada tires is to separate fitment from preference. Fitment comes first, meaning the correct size must match the sub-model and the car's 14-inch wheel setup, while preference comes afterward in the form of styling, tire line, and how traditional the finished look should appear.
Once the size is settled, compare the details that affect ownership rather than assuming every tire in that size offers the same result. Visual presentation, construction style within the period-correct radial format, and compatibility with the wheel already on the car all deserve attention before making a final selection.
What does DR78-14, ER78-14, or FR78-14 mean on a 1978 Ford Granada?
These are vintage alphanumeric radial tire sizes used on the 1978 Ford Granada. The letter portion represents the tire's size class, the R indicates radial construction, the 78 is the profile family in this older sizing convention, and the 14 tells you the tire fits a 14-inch rim.
Modern buyers often recognize metric sizes more easily, so this older format can seem unfamiliar at first. On a Granada, the key point is that DR78-14, ER78-14, and FR78-14 are distinct fitments tied to different sub-model applications, not simply alternate ways of writing the same tire size.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1978 Ford Granada?
A period-style 1978 Ford Granada tire choice starts with the correct original-format radial size for the specific sub-model: DR78-14, ER78-14, or FR78-14. Because the Granada was already using radial construction in this model year, staying with the proper alphanumeric radial format helps preserve the car's late-1970s character.
After size is confirmed, the appearance decision becomes more personal. Some owners want a restrained everyday look, while others want a more restoration-oriented presentation for an ESS or Ghia. Exact originality questions are best checked against marque references or surviving vehicle documentation when details beyond basic fitment matter.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 1978 Ford Granada restoration?
Yes, correct tire fitment matters on a 1978 Ford Granada restoration because the tire size helps define both stance and era-appropriate presentation. Using the proper DR78-14, ER78-14, or FR78-14 size for the right sub-model keeps the car aligned with the fitment pattern associated with the Granada lineup.
Fitment also affects practical details beyond appearance. A tire that does not match the intended size range can change how the car sits on its 14-inch wheels and may alter clearance at the wheel opening. Restoration-minded buyers should verify the actual wheel setup before finalizing a tire choice.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1978 Ford Granada?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1978 Ford Granada even when the car still uses 14-inch wheels. Changes such as aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension work, ride-height adjustments, or body modifications can influence whether the expected DR78-14, ER78-14, or FR78-14 size remains the right choice.
That is especially important on an older car that may have changed hands several times. A buyer should check the wheel dimensions actually on the car and inspect steering and fender clearance before assuming the current setup matches the original-style Granada fitment for that sub-model.
What should I inspect before driving a 1978 Ford Granada on new tires?
Before driving a 1978 Ford Granada on new tires, inspect the wheels for condition and correct diameter, make sure the chosen tire size matches the sub-model, and confirm there is no obvious interference at the suspension, steering, or fender areas. Tire pressure should also be set correctly before the car goes back on the road.
A collector-era Granada also deserves a broader safety walkaround. Check for worn suspension parts, loose steering components, uneven tire seating, and any signs that the car has been sitting for long periods. A fresh set of tires performs best when the rest of the vehicle is equally ready for road use.
How should DR78-14, ER78-14, or FR78-14 tires on a collector 1978 Ford Granada be maintained?
Tires on a collector 1978 Ford Granada should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and attention to age-related condition even if the car is driven only occasionally. DR78-14, ER78-14, and FR78-14 tires should also be examined for cuts, bulges, cracking, uneven wear, and slow air loss.
Storage habits matter just as much as mileage on a low-use Granada. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone-producing equipment helps preserve the tires' condition. It is wise to inspect them before every meaningful drive rather than relying on how little the car has been used.
