The 1998 Eagle Talon belongs to the final years of a sporty hatchback coupe that shared much of its identity with the turbo-era import performance scene of the 1990s. By this point, Talon buyers could end up with anything from a more basic street setup to a sharper TSi configuration, so tire fitment is tied closely to trim and wheel package. This model uses radial tires throughout, with 195/70R14, 205/55R16, and 215/50R17 fitments depending on sub-model. Available choices range from blackwall performance-oriented radials to a wide whitewall option in 205/55R16. The key is matching the exact sub-model and rim diameter before comparing style, series, and road-use priorities.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1998 Eagle Talon
Three tire sizes apply to the 1998 Eagle Talon, and the correct one depends on the exact sub-model and wheel diameter. The first step is confirming whether the car uses a 14-inch, 16-inch, or 17-inch rim, since the Talon range spans all three. Once that is settled, the decision becomes choosing the right radial within that size based on intended use, appearance, and the product options available.
195/70R14 is a metric radial size in which 195 represents nominal section width in millimeters, 70 is the aspect ratio, R identifies radial construction, and 14 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 1998 Eagle Talon, this size supports the smaller-wheel fitment used on certain sub-models and keeps the tire choice centered on a straightforward road-going radial setup. Available product choice in this size is focused, with a Dunlop Sport Classic blackwall offering. It is the size to evaluate when the car retains its 14-inch wheel package and a more standard overall tire profile.
205/55R16 is a metric radial size with a 205-millimeter nominal section width, a 55-series profile, radial construction, and a 16-inch rim diameter. This is one of the key 1998 Eagle Talon fitments and carries the broadest product range, including BFGoodrich, Michelin, and American Classic options. Blackwall performance-oriented series sit alongside a 1.50-inch wide whitewall radial, giving this size unusual range in both appearance and character. It is the size to review carefully when the Talon uses 16-inch wheels and tire choice needs to balance style, brand preference, and wheel-width compatibility.
215/50R17 is a metric radial size where 215 is the nominal width in millimeters, 50 is the aspect ratio, R marks radial construction, and 17 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 1998 Eagle Talon, this size is tied to the largest factory wheel fitment in the range and points toward a lower-profile radial presentation. Product choices here come from BFGoodrich across several g-Force series, all in blackwall form. It is the size to focus on when the car has the 17-inch setup and the priority is staying with the proper wheel diameter and performance-oriented sizing.
Tire fitment varies across the 1998 Eagle Talon lineup, so identifying the exact sub-model matters before comparing products. Some versions share a size, while others move to a different rim diameter and tire profile altogether.
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1998 Eagle Talon Base
The 1998 Eagle Talon Base uses the 195/70R14 radial fitment. That keeps tire selection relatively simple, with the main task being confirmation of the 14-inch wheel setup and then choosing the available radial that suits the car's intended road use.
The 1998 Eagle Talon ESi can use either 195/70R14 or 205/55R16, making wheel diameter the critical checkpoint before ordering tires. Once the actual wheel size is confirmed, selection can shift to brand, sidewall treatment, and the overall look or driving character desired.
The 1998 Eagle Talon TSi (AWD) uses the 215/50R17 radial size. That points the buyer toward 17-inch fitment and a more focused performance-style tire choice, with attention paid to wheel width, tire condition, and clearance on a car that may have seen later modifications.
The 1998 Eagle Talon TSi (FWD) uses the 205/55R16 radial size. This opens up several product choices, so the decision usually comes down to preserving the correct 16-inch fitment while choosing between performance-oriented blackwalls or a more appearance-driven whitewall option.
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 1998 Eagle Talon Tires for Sale
Available 1998 Eagle Talon tires span Dunlop, BFGoodrich, Michelin, and American Classic, depending on size. Buyers can compare blackwall radials across several performance-oriented series, while 205/55R16 also adds a wide whitewall option and the broadest range of rim-width compatibility details.
These 1998 Eagle Talon tire FAQs focus on the trim-specific size differences, wheel-diameter checks, radial tire choices, appearance options, and the practical inspections that matter before putting a low-use or modified Talon back on the road.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1998 Eagle Talon?
A 1998 Eagle Talon can use 195/70R14, 205/55R16, or 215/50R17, depending on the sub-model and wheel package. The Base uses 195/70R14, the TSi (FWD) uses 205/55R16, the TSi (AWD) uses 215/50R17, and the ESi can use either 195/70R14 or 205/55R16.
That means the right answer starts with identifying the exact trim and confirming the wheel diameter already on the car. An ESi deserves extra attention because it appears with two different sizes, so the safest path is matching the tire to the actual 14-inch or 16-inch wheel before comparing brands or tread styles.
What size rim does a 1998 Eagle Talon use?
The 1998 Eagle Talon uses three rim diameters across the model range: 14-inch, 16-inch, and 17-inch. Those rim sizes correspond to 195/70R14, 205/55R16, and 215/50R17 tire fitments, so wheel diameter is directly tied to the correct tire choice.
Checking the wheel matters because the Talon does not stay on a single rim size across all sub-models. Measuring the wheel or verifying the current tire size on the car helps prevent ordering the right tire size for the wrong wheel, especially on cars that may have changed hands or received aftermarket wheels over time.
Why does the 1998 Eagle Talon have more than one tire size?
The 1998 Eagle Talon has more than one tire size because fitment changes by sub-model and wheel package. The lineup spans a standard 14-inch setup, a 16-inch fitment, and a larger 17-inch fitment, so tire dimensions vary to match those wheels and the trim level involved.
For the buyer, that means the model name alone is not enough to choose tires accurately. Trim identification and wheel confirmation come first, and the ESi needs particular care because it appears with two different fitments. Once that is settled, comparing product series, sidewall style, and wheel-width compatibility becomes much more straightforward.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 1998 Eagle Talon tire?
Start with the exact tire size that matches the Talon's sub-model and wheel diameter, because this model uses 14-inch, 16-inch, and 17-inch fitments. From there, compare radial construction details such as intended use, available rim-width range, load capacity where stated, and the overall character of the tire series offered in that size.
A Base model on 195/70R14 calls for a different approach than a TSi on 215/50R17, and a 205/55R16 car brings the widest product choice. Appearance can matter too, since most options are blackwall while one 205/55R16 tire offers a wide whitewall presentation. Matching the tire to the car's real setup is the priority.
What sidewall styles are available for 1998 Eagle Talon tires?
Blackwall is the main sidewall style available for 1998 Eagle Talon tires across all three fitment sizes. In 205/55R16, there is also a wide whitewall option, which gives that size a distinctly different appearance choice than the more performance-oriented blackwall selections.
That matters most for ESi and TSi (FWD) owners using the 205/55R16 fitment, since they can choose between a traditional blackwall look and a more stylized whitewall presentation. Sidewall style does not change the need to keep the correct size and wheel match, but it can strongly influence the finished look of the car.
What brands offer tires for the 1998 Eagle Talon?
1998 Eagle Talon tire choices include Dunlop, BFGoodrich, Michelin, and American Classic, depending on size. The 195/70R14 fitment includes Dunlop, 205/55R16 includes BFGoodrich, Michelin, and American Classic, and 215/50R17 is represented by BFGoodrich across several g-Force series.
Brand choice should be weighed alongside size, wheel compatibility, sidewall style, and the type of driving the Talon actually sees. A buyer looking at 205/55R16 has the most variety, while the 14-inch and 17-inch fitments are more narrowly focused. The best comparison is always within the correct size for the specific sub-model.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1998 Eagle Talon?
A period-style 1998 Eagle Talon should begin with the correct trim-specific size: 195/70R14, 205/55R16, or 215/50R17. Since all primary fitments are radial, the appearance decision is less about bias-ply versus radial and more about preserving the proper wheel diameter, profile, and overall stance associated with the car's original setup.
Among the available choices, blackwall tires deliver the most familiar late-1990s sport-compact presentation, while the 205/55R16 wide whitewall option creates a very different look. Buyers pursuing strict originality should verify wheel and appearance details against marque knowledge or surviving vehicle documentation, especially if the car has been modified during its life.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 1998 Eagle Talon restoration?
Correct tire fitment matters on a 1998 Eagle Talon restoration because the model uses three different radial sizes across its sub-models and wheel packages. Staying with the proper rim diameter and tire profile helps the car look right, sit correctly, and avoid the visual mismatch that comes from using a size intended for another trim.
This is especially important with the ESi, since both 14-inch and 16-inch fitments appear on that sub-model. A restored Talon can still reflect the wrong specification if tires are chosen by guesswork rather than by actual wheel and trim verification. Fitment accuracy also makes later product comparisons much more consistent and meaningful.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1998 Eagle Talon?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1998 Eagle Talon even when the tire size is correct for the original sub-model. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension lowering, changed offsets, or body modifications can all influence how a 195/70R14, 205/55R16, or 215/50R17 tire sits and clears the car.
That is why the actual wheel and suspension setup deserves a quick inspection before replacing tires on any Talon that may not be stock. Checking steering clearance, fender room, and wheel dimensions helps prevent choosing a size that is correct on paper but unsuitable for the way the car is currently configured.
What should I inspect before driving a 1998 Eagle Talon on new tires?
Before driving a 1998 Eagle Talon on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, confirm the wheel diameter matches the tire size, and make sure the tires are properly seated and inflated. It also helps to check alignment-related wear, valve stems, brake clearance, and whether the car shows any signs of rubbing at full steering lock.
A short road test should follow with attention paid to vibration, pull, or contact noises. Older sport compacts are often modified or stored for long periods, so looking over suspension components, bushings, and wheel fasteners is just as important as inspecting the tires themselves before regular driving resumes.
How should 1998 Eagle Talon tires be maintained?
1998 Eagle Talon tires should be maintained with regular pressure checks, periodic visual inspections, and close attention to uneven tread wear. Even on low-mileage cars, radial tires can age from time, heat, sunlight, and storage conditions, so sidewall cracking, bulges, cuts, and slow air loss deserve prompt attention.
Keeping the car aligned and the suspension in sound condition also helps the tires wear evenly, especially on lower-profile 205/55R16 and 215/50R17 fitments. A Talon that is driven occasionally should still have its tires checked before longer trips, since collector-style use often hides age and condition issues until the car is back on the road.
