The 1985 Subaru GL sits squarely in the era when Subaru’s compact cars were building a reputation for practical all-weather traction, light weight, and everyday durability. Whether it is a front-wheel-drive sedan or wagon or one of the 4WD variants that helped define the brand’s character, tire choice on this car is closely tied to the exact body style and drivetrain setup. This model uses radial tires in either 175/70R13 or 185/70R13 on 13-inch rims. Available choices range from blackwall sport-oriented radials to period-style redline and wide whitewall options in 185/70R13. The right pick depends on confirming the sub-model first, then balancing appearance, road use, and wheel compatibility.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1985 Subaru GL
Two tire sizes apply to the 1985 Subaru GL, and the correct one depends on the exact sub-model. Both are radial sizes for 13-inch rims, so the first step is identifying whether the car is a Hatchback (4WD), Sedan Hardtop, Turbo, Wagon, or Wagon (4WD). Once that is confirmed, the decision becomes choosing the right tire style, brand, and series within the correct metric radial size.
185/70R13 is a metric radial size in which 185 designates nominal section width in millimeters, 70 is the aspect ratio, R indicates radial construction, and 13 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 1985 Subaru GL, this size is used on certain sub-models that share a 13-inch wheel but need the larger of the two primary fitments. Product choices include BFGoodrich, Avon, Dunlop, Michelin, and Vredestein, with blackwall, redline, and wide whitewall presentations across several tire series. This size gives owners the widest range of appearance and brand options, but it still needs to match the exact GL configuration and wheel setup.
175/70R13 is also a metric radial size, with 175 indicating nominal section width in millimeters, 70 identifying the aspect ratio, and 13 marking the rim diameter in inches. For the 1985 Subaru GL, this size applies to specific sub-models rather than the whole range, so it should be chosen only after the body style is confirmed. Available product choice is narrower here, with an Avon CR6ZZ blackwall radial in the correct size. It is the right direction for owners focused on staying with the proper primary fitment instead of moving to the larger 185-section tire used elsewhere in the GL lineup.
Tire fitment for the 1985 Subaru GL changes by sub-model, even though every version here uses a 13-inch radial tire. Checking the exact body style and whether the car is 4WD matters first, because that determines whether the car uses 175/70R13 or 185/70R13.
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1985 Subaru GL Hatchback (4WD)
The 1985 Subaru GL Hatchback (4WD) uses the larger 185/70R13 radial size. That gives this sub-model access to a broader range of tire series and sidewall styles, so the main decision is whether the goal is a simple blackwall driver tire or a more period-style presentation.
The 1985 Subaru GL Sedan Hardtop uses 175/70R13 radial tires on a 13-inch rim. Tire selection here is more focused, so keeping to the correct size and confirming wheel width are more important than comparing a wide mix of sidewall treatments.
The 1985 Subaru GL Turbo uses 185/70R13 radial tires. With several brands and tire series available in that size, owners can compare between a more understated blackwall look and period-style appearance options while still staying within the proper primary fitment.
The 1985 Subaru GL Wagon uses 175/70R13 radial tires rather than the larger 185-section size found on some other GL versions. That makes sub-model confirmation important before ordering, especially on cars that may have had wheels or tires changed over time.
The 1985 Subaru GL Wagon (4WD) uses 185/70R13 radial tires. Because that size includes more brand and appearance choices, owners can focus on how the wagon will be used and how traditional or sport-oriented they want the finished look to be.
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 1985 Subaru GL Tires for Sale
Available 1985 Subaru GL tires center on radial 13-inch fitments, with the broadest choice in 185/70R13. Brands include BFGoodrich, Avon, Dunlop, Michelin, and Vredestein, with blackwall, redline, and wide whitewall options depending on size and series.
These FAQs focus on the 1985 Subaru GL’s two primary tire sizes, 13-inch rim fitment, sub-model differences, available radial choices, appearance options, and the checks worth making before putting a collector-era Subaru back on the road.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1985 Subaru GL?
A 1985 Subaru GL uses one of two radial tire sizes: 175/70R13 or 185/70R13. The correct size depends on the exact sub-model. The Sedan Hardtop and Wagon use 175/70R13, while the Hatchback (4WD), Turbo, and Wagon (4WD) use 185/70R13.
That means the first step is confirming the exact GL version rather than choosing by year alone. Both sizes fit 13-inch rims, but they are not the same width or overall diameter. On a car that has had wheel changes over the years, it is smart to verify the current wheel width and make sure the tire size matches the intended setup and body clearance.
What size rim does a 1985 Subaru GL use?
The 1985 Subaru GL uses a 13-inch rim with both primary tire sizes. Whether the car takes 175/70R13 or 185/70R13, the wheel diameter remains the same, so the main fitment difference across sub-models is tire size rather than rim diameter.
Wheel width still matters, especially when comparing tire options from different brands and series. Some 185/70R13 products are built for rim widths such as 4.5 to 6.5 inches, while some 175/70R13 products are suited to 4.5 to 6.0 inches. A quick wheel check helps avoid choosing a tire that is correct in diameter but not appropriate for the rim actually on the car.
Why does the 1985 Subaru GL have more than one tire size?
The 1985 Subaru GL has more than one tire size because tire fitment varies by sub-model. The range includes sedan, wagon, turbo, and 4WD versions, and those configurations do not all use the same primary size. Some take 175/70R13, while others use 185/70R13.
That variation makes sub-model identification more important than it would be on a single-fitment vehicle. A Wagon and a Wagon (4WD) do not share the same tire size, even though both are GL models. If the car has been modified or simply wears whatever tires were available years ago, it is worth confirming the exact configuration before settling on a replacement.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 185/70R13 tire for a 1985 Subaru GL?
Start with the correct sub-model, since 185/70R13 applies only to the Hatchback (4WD), Turbo, and Wagon (4WD). From there, compare the tire’s intended character, sidewall style, rim-width range, and load specification where shown. In this size, choices span BFGoodrich, Avon, Dunlop, Michelin, and Vredestein.
The practical choice often comes down to how the car will be used and how it should look. Blackwall tires keep a more understated appearance, while redline and wide whitewall versions give a stronger period-style effect. It also helps to compare the wheel width on the car with the tire’s approved range so the selected tire suits the wheel as well as the GL sub-model.
What sidewall styles are available for 1985 Subaru GL tires?
Sidewall choices for the 1985 Subaru GL include blackwall, redline, and wide whitewall, depending on tire size. The broader variety appears in 185/70R13, where blackwall options are joined by BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial redline and 2-inch whitewall versions. The 175/70R13 fitment shown here is a blackwall radial.
Appearance can change the personality of the car even when the tire size stays correct. A blackwall keeps the look restrained and close to what many drivers expect on an eighties compact, while a redline or whitewall adds a more customized or restoration-oriented presentation. The key is keeping the correct size for the specific GL sub-model first, then selecting the sidewall treatment that matches the build.
What brands offer tires for the 1985 Subaru GL?
Tires for the 1985 Subaru GL are available from BFGoodrich, Avon, Dunlop, Michelin, and Vredestein, depending on size. The widest brand selection is in 185/70R13, while 175/70R13 is represented here by Avon. Tire series include Silvertown Radial, CR6ZZ, SP Sport Aquajet, Sport Classic, Michelin XDX-B, and Sprint Classic.
Brand alone should not make the decision. It is more useful to compare the correct size for the sub-model, the sidewall style, the tire series character, and any wheel-width or load figures that matter to the car’s setup. That approach keeps the choice grounded in fitment and intended use rather than treating every 13-inch radial as the same.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1985 Subaru GL?
A period-style choice for a 1985 Subaru GL starts with the correct primary size for the exact sub-model: either 175/70R13 or 185/70R13. From there, the available tire series and sidewall treatment shape the look. In 185/70R13, blackwall, redline, and wide whitewall options create noticeably different presentations.
For a restoration-oriented car, the safest approach is to treat size as the first priority and appearance as the second. If exact originality matters, it is worth checking marque references, period photos, or other vehicle-specific historical material before choosing a sidewall style. That keeps the final look appropriate to the car without assuming every available 13-inch radial reflects original delivery.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1985 Subaru GL?
On the 1985 Subaru GL, the primary fitments are radial tires, so the construction itself already matches the vehicle’s era better than a vintage bias-ply presentation would. Appearance differences here come more from the tire series and sidewall treatment than from changing between construction types.
That makes details like blackwall, redline, or wide whitewall more influential visually than the basic radial layout. A blackwall usually keeps the car looking restrained and practical, while redline or whitewall options create a more stylized period effect. The most convincing result still begins with the correct 175/70R13 or 185/70R13 size for the specific GL version being restored.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1985 Subaru GL?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1985 Subaru GL even when the original tire size is known. Aftermarket wheels, suspension changes, altered ride height, or bodywork repairs can all change how a 175/70R13 or 185/70R13 tire sits in the wheel opening and how much clearance it has during steering and suspension movement.
A car that has been changed from stock should be checked at the wheel, not just by year and model. Confirm the actual wheel diameter and width, then look at clearance around the fender, strut, and steering range. That matters especially on older cars that may have had replacement wheels fitted long ago with little regard for original Subaru GL fitment.
What should I inspect before driving a 1985 Subaru GL on new tires?
Before driving a 1985 Subaru GL on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, confirm the tire size matches the exact sub-model, and verify proper inflation. It also helps to check lug hardware, valve stems, and overall wheel condition so the new tires are mounted on sound components.
An older GL deserves a broader once-over before regular road use. Look for suspension wear, loose steering components, uneven old-tire wear patterns, and any signs that the car has alignment issues. A short, careful test drive after installation can reveal rubbing, pull, or vibration early, before the tires accumulate avoidable wear.
How should 175/70R13 and 185/70R13 tires on a collector 1985 Subaru GL be maintained?
Collector-era 175/70R13 and 185/70R13 tires on a 1985 Subaru GL should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspection, and clean storage conditions when the car is not driven often. Low-use cars can still develop age-related problems such as sidewall cracking, flat spotting, or gradual air loss.
Periodic inspection matters more than mileage alone on a vintage Subaru that spends long stretches parked. Keep the tires away from prolonged sunlight, excessive heat, and ozone sources, and inspect for cuts, bulges, or irregular wear before heading out. Moving the car occasionally and maintaining proper inflation can also help preserve ride quality and reduce storage-related stress on the tires.
