The 1987 Nissan Sentra sits in the compact front-wheel-drive market of the late 1980s, a period when practical small cars were also beginning to show more distinct trim and body-style personalities. That matters when choosing tires, because this Sentra does not rely on one universal fitment across the range. Depending on sub-model, it uses 155/80R13, 175/70R13, or 185/60R14 radial tires. Available choices range from blackwall sport-oriented options to narrow and wide whitewall styles on the 13-inch fitments. The key is matching the exact sub-model and wheel diameter first, then choosing the tire that best suits the car's appearance, driving use, and overall setup.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1987 Nissan Sentra
Three primary tire sizes apply to the 1987 Nissan Sentra, and the correct one depends on the exact sub-model and wheel diameter. Two sizes use 13-inch rims, while the SE Coupe uses a 14-inch fitment, so the first step is confirming both the trim level and the wheels currently on the car before comparing tire style, sidewall treatment, or series.
A 175/70R13 tire measures 175 millimeters across the section, uses a 70-series aspect ratio, and fits a 13-inch rim. It is a radial fitment used on specific 1987 Nissan Sentra sub-models, making it important to match this size to the correct trim rather than treating it as universal across the range. In this size, the available option is an Avon CR6ZZ blackwall radial, which gives the buyer a distinctly modern-looking performance-oriented presentation. This size makes sense when the car is already set up for the 13-inch wheel and the goal is to keep the proper metric radial fitment for that configuration.
A 155/80R13 tire is 155 millimeters wide, uses an 80-series profile, and fits a 13-inch rim. This radial size is associated with certain 1987 Nissan Sentra trims and carries a more traditional narrow metric look than the wider alternatives used elsewhere in the lineup. Product choices in this size include blackwall-free whitewall options, with narrow whitewall and wide whitewall styles available from Travelstar, BFGoodrich, Maxxis, and Tornel across several classic-oriented series. It is the size to evaluate when preserving the original wheel diameter on the correct sub-model while choosing between a cleaner black-tire absence and a more vintage-inspired sidewall appearance.
A 185/60R14 tire uses a 185-millimeter section width, a lower 60-series profile, and a 14-inch rim. This is a radial fitment tied to the 1987 Nissan Sentra SE Coupe, so it should be selected only after confirming that the car is that sub-model and still uses the proper 14-inch wheel setup. The available choice here is a Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2 blackwall radial, which gives this size a more performance-focused character than the whitewall-oriented 13-inch offerings. It is the right size to examine when maintaining the coupe's 14-inch fitment and its lower-profile tire presentation.
Tire fitment varies across the 1987 Nissan Sentra lineup, so identifying the exact sub-model matters before choosing a replacement. Some trims share the same 13-inch radial size, while the SE Coupe moves to a different 14-inch fitment.
1
1987 Nissan Sentra 4x4
The 1987 Nissan Sentra 4x4 uses the 175/70R13 radial size. That makes wheel-diameter confirmation straightforward, and the main selection question becomes choosing a tire in that size that suits the vehicle's road use and overall appearance.
The 1987 Nissan Sentra Base uses the 155/80R13 radial size. For this trim, tire selection centers on staying with the proper 13-inch metric fitment and deciding whether a narrow or wider whitewall presentation fits the look of the car.
The 1987 Nissan Sentra E also uses the 155/80R13 radial size. Because it shares that fitment, the focus is less about size confusion and more about comparing available sidewall styles, brands, and rim-width specifications within the correct size.
The 1987 Nissan Sentra GXE Deluxe uses the 175/70R13 radial size. That means the buyer should confirm the 13-inch wheel setup first, then compare the available tire's construction, overall presentation, and intended use for the car.
The 1987 Nissan Sentra SE Coupe uses the 185/60R14 radial size rather than one of the 13-inch Sentra fitments. That makes wheel diameter the first thing to verify, followed by a close look at the tire's lower-profile character and rim-width compatibility.
The 1987 Nissan Sentra XE Coupe uses the 175/70R13 radial size. With that fitment confirmed, the practical decision is choosing a tire that maintains the proper 13-inch setup and matches the car's intended street use and appearance.
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 1987 Nissan Sentra Tires for Sale
Available 1987 Nissan Sentra tires span 13-inch and 14-inch radial fitments from Avon, Travelstar, BFGoodrich, Maxxis, Tornel, and Michelin. The product grid is most useful for comparing blackwall versus whitewall presentation, tire series, and rim-width specifications within the correct sub-model size.
These 1987 Nissan Sentra tire FAQs focus on the questions that matter most once the exact trim is known, including size selection, wheel diameter, radial fitment, sidewall choices, and the checks worth making before regular road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1987 Nissan Sentra?
A 1987 Nissan Sentra can use 155/80R13, 175/70R13, or 185/60R14 radial tires, depending on the sub-model. The Base and E use 155/80R13, the 4x4, GXE Deluxe, and XE Coupe use 175/70R13, and the SE Coupe uses 185/60R14.
That means the first step is identifying the exact Sentra trim and confirming the wheel diameter already on the car. Two of the sizes fit 13-inch rims, but they are not the same width and profile, while the SE Coupe moves to a 14-inch setup. If the car has replacement wheels, verify the actual wheel dimensions before selecting a tire.
What size rim does a 1987 Nissan Sentra use?
The 1987 Nissan Sentra uses either a 13-inch or 14-inch rim, depending on sub-model. The 155/80R13 and 175/70R13 tires fit 13-inch wheels, while the 185/60R14 fitment uses a 14-inch wheel on the SE Coupe.
Rim diameter should be confirmed before anything else, because it immediately narrows the correct tire choices. A 13-inch tire will not substitute for a 14-inch wheel, and the reverse is equally true. Once diameter is confirmed, compare the tire's approved rim-width range with the wheel on the car, especially if the Sentra has had aftermarket wheel changes over the years.
Do all 1987 Nissan Sentra sub-models use the same tire size?
No, the 1987 Nissan Sentra does not use one tire size across every sub-model. Some trims share 155/80R13, others use 175/70R13, and the SE Coupe uses a separate 185/60R14 radial fitment.
That variation matters because the correct choice is tied to both trim level and wheel diameter. A buyer looking only at the model year and name can easily land on the wrong size if the sub-model is skipped. Checking the trim badge, current tire placard information when available, and the wheels actually installed on the car is the safest way to narrow the right fitment.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 1987 Nissan Sentra tire?
Start with the correct size for the exact sub-model, then confirm wheel diameter and compare the tire's construction and rim-width specification with the wheel on the car. For the 1987 Nissan Sentra, all three primary fitments are radial, but the available products vary by series, sidewall style, and intended look.
After fitment is narrowed down, think about how the car is used and how you want it to present. A blackwall tire gives a cleaner modern appearance, while narrow and wide whitewall options on 155/80R13 create a more vintage-styled look. Cars with replacement wheels or suspension changes should be checked carefully so the chosen tire suits both the trim and the actual setup.
What sidewall styles are available for 1987 Nissan Sentra tires?
Sidewall style depends on the tire size. The 175/70R13 and 185/60R14 offerings are blackwall radials, while the 155/80R13 fitment has the widest appearance range with narrow whitewall and wide whitewall options.
That gives owners of Base and E models more room to shape the car's presentation without changing size. A narrow whitewall creates a subtle period-style accent, while a wide whitewall makes a stronger visual statement. The right choice is less about trend and more about matching the Sentra's trim, wheel style, and the overall look you want from the finished car.
What brands offer tires for the 1987 Nissan Sentra?
Available tire brands for the 1987 Nissan Sentra include Avon, Travelstar, BFGoodrich, Maxxis, Tornel, and Michelin. Brand choice depends on the size, since each Sentra fitment does not share the same product assortment.
The practical approach is to match the correct size first, then compare the brands available in that fitment for sidewall style, tire series, and wheel-compatibility details. For example, 155/80R13 offers the broadest mix of brands and whitewall treatments, while 175/70R13 and 185/60R14 are more narrowly represented. That makes the sub-model and wheel diameter just as important as brand preference.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1987 Nissan Sentra?
A period-style choice starts with the correct size for the exact 1987 Nissan Sentra sub-model. From there, the 155/80R13 fitment offers the most appearance-driven options, including narrow whitewall and wide whitewall radials, while the 175/70R13 and 185/60R14 choices are blackwall only.
That makes the Base and E models especially flexible if the goal is a more restoration-oriented presentation. A whitewall can give the car a distinct late-classic import look, but exact originality should be confirmed through model-specific historical references if that level of detail matters. Size, wheel diameter, and overall visual balance should stay ahead of appearance alone.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 1987 Nissan Sentra restoration?
Yes, correct tire fitment matters because the 1987 Nissan Sentra used more than one size across its sub-model range. Choosing the right size keeps the car visually proportioned to its wheel package and preserves the intended relationship between tire profile, wheel diameter, and stance.
A restoration can look noticeably off when the wrong diameter or profile is installed, even if the tire clears the bodywork. That is especially important here because the lineup includes both 13-inch and 14-inch fitments. Before focusing on sidewall style or brand, confirm the sub-model and wheel setup so the finished car looks coherent and remains true to its configuration.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1987 Nissan Sentra?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1987 Nissan Sentra even when the tire size itself is correct for the original sub-model. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, suspension lowering, or body alterations can all change how much room the tire has at the fender, strut, and steering points.
A Sentra that no longer has its original wheel setup should be checked carefully before a replacement tire is chosen. Confirm actual wheel diameter and width, then look at clearance through a full steering sweep and normal suspension travel. That matters most when moving between the model's 13-inch and 14-inch fitments or when a lower-profile appearance has been introduced.
What should I inspect before driving a 1987 Nissan Sentra on new tires?
Before putting a 1987 Nissan Sentra back into regular road use on new tires, inspect the wheels, valve stems, lug hardware, and overall tire clearance. It also makes sense to check alignment-related wear points, because uneven suspension or steering condition can shorten tire life quickly on a lightweight compact car.
The tires themselves should be set to the proper pressure for the vehicle setup and then rechecked after initial use. Watch for rubbing, pulling, vibration, or unusual tread contact once the car is driven. A quick follow-up inspection after the first miles can catch mounting or clearance issues early, especially on cars with older wheels or recently refreshed suspension parts.
How often should tires on a 1987 Nissan Sentra be inspected?
Tires on a 1987 Nissan Sentra should be inspected regularly, not just at long service intervals. A visual check every month and before longer drives is a sensible baseline, especially on a car that may see seasonal use, limited mileage, or longer periods of storage.
Look for air loss, irregular tread wear, cracking, bulges, cuts, and signs of contact inside the wheelhouse. Pressure should be checked when the tires are cold, and older collector-use cars deserve extra attention even if tread depth still looks strong. Consistent inspection helps catch age and setup problems early, which is especially important on a compact car using narrower vintage-size radials.
