1985 Subaru XT Tires

The 1985 Subaru XT uses two tire sizes, depending on sub-model: 165R13 and 185/70R13. The XT DL (FWD) uses 165R13, while the XT GL and XT GL-10 Turbo use 185/70R13. Both are radial tire fitments on 13-inch wheels, so the correct size comes down to identifying the exact trim level before choosing a tire.

That distinction matters because the two sizes are not simply style variations of the same fitment. A buyer should confirm the sub-model, then verify the wheel diameter already on the car, especially if the XT has changed hands over the years or has been modified. Once the correct size is confirmed, the next decision becomes brand, tire series, and sidewall appearance within that fitment.

The 1985 Subaru XT uses a 13-inch rim with both of its primary tire sizes. The 165R13 fitment for the XT DL (FWD) and the 185/70R13 fitment for the XT GL and XT GL-10 Turbo both share that same wheel diameter, even though the tire sizes themselves differ by sub-model.

Rim diameter is only part of the picture, so it is still worth checking wheel width before settling on a specific tire. Some available products include rim-width ranges, and those can help narrow the best match for the wheel already on the car. On an older XT, that check is especially useful if the wheels may have been replaced with aftermarket or later-model alternatives.

No, the 1985 Subaru XT does not use one tire size across every sub-model. The XT DL (FWD) uses 165R13, while both the XT GL and XT GL-10 Turbo use 185/70R13. All three versions use radial construction and a 13-inch rim, but the size itself changes depending on trim.

That means tire selection should start with the exact badge on the car rather than with the model name alone. The difference is important for both appearance and fitment, since a narrower Euro-metric radial and a wider 70-series metric radial present differently on the vehicle. Checking the current wheels and reading the existing tire size can help confirm whether the car still matches its intended setup.

Start with the correct size for the sub-model, since the 1985 Subaru XT uses either 165R13 or 185/70R13. From there, compare radial construction details, brand, tire series, sidewall style, and any stated rim-width compatibility. The DL (FWD) has a narrower, more limited fitment range, while the GL and GL-10 Turbo have a broader set of tire choices.

The best choice depends on how the car will be used and how it should look. A blackwall radial keeps the presentation restrained and era-appropriate, while redline or wide whitewall options in 185/70R13 create a much different visual impression. Checking wheel width, load figures where stated, and the overall condition of the suspension helps narrow the most sensible option.

Sidewall choice depends on the tire size. In 165R13, the available options are blackwall radials. In 185/70R13, the selection expands to blackwall, redline, and wide whitewall styles. That gives GL and GL-10 Turbo owners more visual variety than the DL (FWD), even though all of the primary fitments remain radial tires on 13-inch rims.

Appearance should be balanced with the overall character of the car. A blackwall usually keeps the XT’s clean, aerodynamic shape looking restrained, while a redline or wide whitewall creates a more customized or restoration-themed presentation. Since sidewall treatment does not change the need for proper fitment, the correct size and wheel compatibility still come first.

Tires for the 1985 Subaru XT are available from Michelin, Dunlop, BFGoodrich, Avon, and Vredestein, depending on the size. The 165R13 fitment includes Michelin and Dunlop choices, while the 185/70R13 fitment expands to BFGoodrich, Avon, Dunlop, Michelin, and Vredestein across several radial series and sidewall treatments.

Brand alone should not decide the purchase, because the available tires also differ by series, visual style, and in some cases rim-width guidance or stated load figures. It makes more sense to narrow the field by correct sub-model size first, then compare how each brand’s available tire aligns with the car’s intended appearance, wheel setup, and planned driving use.

A period-style 1985 Subaru XT starts with using the correct original-type size for the specific sub-model: 165R13 for the DL (FWD) or 185/70R13 for the GL and GL-10 Turbo. Because the XT is an eighties car with a distinctly modern-for-its-time look, the tire should support that shape rather than overpower it with the wrong proportions.

For many owners, that points toward a blackwall radial with an appropriate overall visual character for the era. On 185/70R13, redline and wide whitewall options are also available, but those are appearance choices rather than universal restoration answers. When exact originality matters, it is worth checking marque literature, photos, or enthusiast references tied to the specific trim.

On a restored 1985 Subaru XT, construction is straightforward because the primary fitments are radial tires rather than bias-ply. That helps preserve the proper late-classic look of the car, especially given the XT’s streamlined body and distinctly modern styling theme. The bigger appearance differences come from size selection by sub-model and from sidewall treatment within the available products.

A correctly sized radial keeps the wheel opening and stance from looking visually off, while the wrong size can change the car’s proportions even before the vehicle moves. Blackwall tires usually suit the XT’s original-era aesthetic most naturally, though 185/70R13 also allows redline and wide whitewall alternatives for a more personalized presentation. Correct fitment remains the foundation of a convincing restoration.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1985 Subaru XT even when the tire size looks close on paper. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width or offset, suspension alterations, and body modifications can all change how a 165R13 or 185/70R13 tire sits in the wheel opening and how much clearance remains during steering or suspension movement.

That is why a modified XT should be checked as an individual car rather than assumed to match stock fitment. Confirm the actual wheel diameter and width, inspect clearance at full steering lock, and look for any signs of rubbing near fenders or suspension components. Those checks matter before mounting a new set, especially on a car that has had decades of owner changes.

Before driving a 1985 Subaru XT on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and condition, confirm the tire size matches the sub-model, and check that valve stems, bead seats, and lug hardware are in good order. It is also wise to look over suspension and steering components, because worn parts can affect how a fresh set of radial tires behaves.

A short visual check of clearance is important as well, especially if the car has non-original wheels or has been sitting for long periods. Make sure there are no signs of contact at the fenders, inner wheel housings, or suspension pieces. Once the tires are installed, maintain proper pressure and watch for vibration, pulling, or uneven wear during the first miles.

Tires on a 1985 Subaru XT should be inspected regularly, even if the car is driven only occasionally. A collector-era vehicle can accumulate age-related tire issues long before it accumulates much mileage, so sidewall cracking, flat spotting, air loss, bulges, cuts, and uneven tread wear deserve routine attention on both 165R13 and 185/70R13 fitments.

A quick check before each drive is smart, and a more careful inspection should be part of seasonal maintenance if the car is stored. Pressure should be monitored consistently, since low-use vehicles often sit long enough for a slow loss to go unnoticed. Storage away from prolonged sunlight, heat, and ozone sources can also help preserve the condition of collector tires.