The 1986 Subaru GL came from a period when Subaru's compact cars were earning a reputation for practicality, light weight, and confidence in mixed weather, especially in 4WD trim. Body style and drivetrain matter on this car, because tire fitment is split between 185/70R13 and 175/70R13 radial sizes on 13-inch wheels. That keeps the decision focused on identifying the exact GL sub-model first, then choosing the right radial within that size. Available options range from straightforward blackwall tires to more appearance-driven redline and wide whitewall selections in 185/70R13. For a stock or restoration-minded GL, correct size and wheel compatibility should come before style.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1986 Subaru GL
The 1986 Subaru GL uses two primary tire sizes, and the correct one depends on the exact sub-model. Both are radial sizes for 13-inch wheels, so the first step is confirming whether the car is a Hatchback (4WD), Turbo, Sedan Hardtop, Wagon, or Wagon (4WD). Once that is settled, the choice becomes selecting the right tire style, brand, and product character within the correct size.
185/70R13 is a metric radial size in which 185 is the nominal section width in millimeters, 70 is the aspect ratio, R identifies radial construction, and 13 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 1986 Subaru GL, this size is used on specific configurations and keeps the car in its intended modern radial fitment. Product choice is broad here, with blackwall, redline, and wide whitewall options, plus series from BFGoodrich, Avon, Dunlop, Michelin, and Vredestein. This size deserves a closer look when appearance, brand preference, or rim-width compatibility matters as much as basic fitment.
175/70R13 is also a metric radial size, using a 175-millimeter nominal section width, a 70-series aspect ratio, and a 13-inch rim diameter. For the 1986 Subaru GL, it serves the narrower of the two primary fitments and remains part of the vehicle's original radial-era sizing approach. Available product choice is more focused in this size, centered here on a blackwall Avon CR6ZZ. This is the size to verify carefully on Sedan Hardtop and Wagon applications, especially if the car has changed hands or has had wheels swapped over the years.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 1986 Subaru GL because the covered body styles and driveline combinations do not all use the same tire size. Checking the exact sub-model first keeps the tire search from drifting into the wrong width even though every version here uses a 13-inch radial.
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1986 Subaru GL Hatchback (4WD)
The 1986 Subaru GL Hatchback (4WD) uses the 185/70R13 radial size. That makes the decision less about construction type and more about choosing the right blackwall or period-style sidewall treatment while confirming the wheel setup is still the correct 13-inch arrangement.
The 1986 Subaru GL Sedan Hardtop uses the 175/70R13 radial size. Tire selection here centers on staying with that narrower metric fitment and confirming that the car has not been changed to a different wheel and tire package over time.
The 1986 Subaru GL Turbo uses the 185/70R13 radial size. With several products available in that size, the choice can be tailored around brand, tread character, sidewall appearance, and wheel-width compatibility rather than searching between multiple primary sizes.
The 1986 Subaru GL Wagon uses the 175/70R13 radial size. Owners looking to keep the wagon close to its intended proportions should start with that size, then verify the actual wheel diameter and width before settling on a replacement tire.
The 1986 Subaru GL Wagon (4WD) uses the 185/70R13 radial size. That opens the door to a wider spread of available products, including traditional blackwalls and more restoration-oriented sidewall styles, while still keeping fitment anchored to the correct 13-inch radial sizing.
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 1986 Subaru GL Tires for Sale
Available 1986 Subaru GL tire choices are centered on radial 13-inch fitments, with the widest selection in 185/70R13. Brands include BFGoodrich, Avon, Dunlop, Michelin, and Vredestein, with blackwall, redline, and wide whitewall options across several series.
These 1986 Subaru GL tire FAQs focus on the two factory-era radial sizes, how fitment changes by sub-model, what can be compared among the available 13-inch tires, and what to inspect before putting the car back on the road.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1986 Subaru GL?
A 1986 Subaru GL uses either 185/70R13 or 175/70R13, depending on the exact sub-model. The Hatchback (4WD), Turbo, and Wagon (4WD) use 185/70R13, while the Sedan Hardtop and Wagon use 175/70R13. Both are radial sizes designed for 13-inch wheels.
The key step is matching the tire size to the specific GL configuration rather than assuming every 1986 GL used the same width. A car that has had replacement wheels installed over the years should also have its actual wheel diameter and width checked before selecting a new tire, since both listed sizes share the same rim diameter but differ in section width and overall dimensions.
What size rim does a 1986 Subaru GL use?
The 1986 Subaru GL uses a 13-inch rim diameter with both of its primary tire sizes, 185/70R13 and 175/70R13. That means the wheel diameter stays consistent across the covered fitments even though the tire width changes by sub-model.
Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture, so it still helps to confirm wheel width before choosing among available tires. Some products in these sizes include stated rim-width ranges, and that matters if the car has aftermarket wheels or a replacement wheel set from another Subaru. Matching both diameter and width gives a much better starting point than diameter alone.
Do all 1986 Subaru GL sub-models use the same tire size?
No. The 1986 Subaru GL does not use one tire size across every sub-model. Hatchback (4WD), Turbo, and Wagon (4WD) models use 185/70R13, while the Sedan Hardtop and Wagon use 175/70R13, so fitment changes with the exact body style and drivetrain configuration.
That difference is important because the two sizes are not simply alternate labels for the same tire. Even though both fit 13-inch wheels, the proportions are different enough that the buyer should confirm the actual sub-model first. On a car that has been modified or assembled from mixed parts, checking the wheels already on the vehicle is a smart extra step before ordering tires.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 1986 Subaru GL?
Start with the correct size for the exact 1986 Subaru GL sub-model, since this car uses either 185/70R13 or 175/70R13. From there, compare construction, rim-width compatibility where stated, sidewall appearance, and the overall character of the tire series. The broadest choice is in 185/70R13.
A stock driver may call for a straightforward blackwall radial, while a more appearance-driven build might lean toward a redline or wide whitewall option in 185/70R13. It also helps to consider how the car will be used, whether that is occasional collector use, regular fair-weather driving, or a restoration-focused presentation. Correct size should stay ahead of styling preference.
What sidewall styles are available for 1986 Subaru GL tires?
Sidewall choices for the 1986 Subaru GL include blackwall, redline, and wide whitewall, depending on the tire size and product selected. The widest range appears in 185/70R13, where blackwall options are joined by BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial versions with redline and 2-inch whitewall styling.
That means sidewall appearance can become part of the decision once the correct size is confirmed. A blackwall keeps the presentation closer to a typical late-1980s road-car look, while redline or wide whitewall choices create a more customized or restoration-themed appearance. Style should be balanced with practical details such as the correct GL sub-model fitment and compatible wheel width.
What brands offer tires for the 1986 Subaru GL?
Tires for the 1986 Subaru GL are available from BFGoodrich, Avon, Dunlop, Michelin, and Vredestein. Brand choice depends partly on tire size, since 185/70R13 has the widest brand spread, while 175/70R13 is represented here by Avon in the CR6ZZ series.
Brand selection is most useful when it is tied to the exact size and product character you want. Some buyers will focus on a traditional blackwall radial, while others may be drawn to the BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial for its period-style redline or wide whitewall presentation. Rather than ranking brands, the better approach is comparing the available offerings within the correct GL fitment.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1986 Subaru GL?
A period-style 1986 Subaru GL tire choice starts with the correct sub-model size, either 185/70R13 or 175/70R13, since preserving the car's intended stance matters as much as appearance. From there, a blackwall radial usually maintains the most natural late-1980s presentation, while some 185/70R13 options add more visual character.
A restoration-minded owner should think about whether the goal is factory-inspired restraint or a more personalized vintage look. Redline and wide whitewall offerings in 185/70R13 can create a distinctive period feel, but exact originality should be checked against marque references, photos, and build-specific documentation if authenticity is the priority. Size and wheel compatibility still come first.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1986 Subaru GL?
On a restored 1986 Subaru GL, construction is less of an appearance debate than it is on older cars because the primary fitments here are already radial. The visual difference is more likely to come from sidewall treatment, tread style, and the tire's overall profile within the correct 175/70R13 or 185/70R13 size.
That keeps the restoration decision focused on proportions and presentation rather than switching between bias-ply and radial. A blackwall radial usually looks most at home on a stock late-1980s GL, while redline or wide whitewall versions in 185/70R13 push the look in a more customized direction. The closer the restoration goal is to original delivery, the more carefully sidewall style should be researched.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1986 Subaru GL?
Yes. Modifications can change tire fitment on a 1986 Subaru GL even when the car originally used a 13-inch wheel. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension changes, lowering, or bodywork changes can all affect how a 175/70R13 or 185/70R13 tire sits and clears under the car.
A modified GL should have more checked than tire size alone. Wheel diameter, wheel width, and available clearance at full steering lock and suspension travel all deserve attention before a tire is chosen. That is especially important when moving between the two original widths, because a car that looks stock at a glance may no longer match its original wheel and tire setup.
What should I inspect before driving a 1986 Subaru GL on new tires?
Before driving a 1986 Subaru GL on new tires, inspect the wheels for the correct 13-inch diameter, check that the wheel width suits the tire being installed, and make sure the tires are mounted in the proper size for the exact sub-model. It also helps to look over valve stems, balance, and visible clearances.
The rest of the car deserves attention too, especially on an older GL that may have spent time parked. Check alignment condition, steering response, suspension wear, and brake function before a longer drive. Once the car is on the ground, verify that the tires do not contact fenders or suspension parts during turning or compression, then recheck air pressure after the first miles.
How should tires on a collector 1986 Subaru GL be maintained?
Tires on a collector 1986 Subaru GL should be checked regularly for pressure loss, tread wear, sidewall cracking, bulges, and cuts, even if the car is driven only occasionally. Low-use cars can age tires without adding many miles, so condition matters just as much as tread depth on a preserved GL.
Storage habits make a difference as well. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps protect the tire casing over time. During the driving season, it is wise to inspect the tires before longer trips and after long periods of storage. Older collector cars often sit enough that routine visual checks catch problems before road use does.
