Tire Fitment Guide For 1956 Vehicles
The 1956 model year sits at an interesting point in tire history, with many vehicles appearing in both traditional bias-ply sizing and early radial formats. American full-size cars often use larger 15-inch bias-ply sizes, while imported sedans, sports cars, and compact models span smaller inch-based sizes as well as millimetric 400-series fitments. That means tire selection for 1956 vehicles is rarely one-size-fits-all. A Cadillac, Austin, Porsche, Jaguar, or Citroen may each call for very different dimensions, construction types, and sidewall treatments. This guide helps narrow the search from 1956 tire size to the correct make and model applications, then into currently available product choices by brand, construction, and styling.
1956 Vehicles Tire Sizes
1956 vehicle tire sizes cover a wide spread, from small 12-, 13-, and 14-inch fitments to substantial 15-, 16-, and even 17-inch applications. The year includes both bias-ply and radial constructions, plus several millimetric sizes such as 165R400 and 165-400. Some sizes are shared across many makes, while others are tied to a narrow group of cars, making exact size confirmation especially important.
Rim Diameter: 16 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall, Wide Whitewall
The 550-16 size appears across a varied group of 1956 British and European vehicles, including the 1956 AC Ace, 1956 Arnolt-Bristol MKII, 1956 Jensen 541, and several 1956 Sunbeam models. It is a bias-ply fitment, making it especially relevant for owners seeking a period-oriented driving character and appearance on smaller sports and touring cars. Available products include Blackwall and Wide Whitewall choices from Excelsior, Avon, BFGoodrich, and Firestone. Listed rim guidance varies by product, with some 550-16 tires specifying a 16-inch rim and a 3.25- to 4.00-inch wheel width range.
Explore 550-16 TiresRim Diameter: 16 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
185R16 is a radial size used on select 1956 saloons and luxury cars, including the 1956 AC Saloon, 1956 Armstrong-Siddeley Sapphire, 1956 Daimler One-O-Four, and 1956 Jaguar Mark. This metric radial format reflects the growing presence of radial technology in mid-1950s European applications. Current product choices are Blackwall radials from Michelin, Avon, and Vredestein, with some options listing rim-width ranges from 4.50 to 6.00 inches or 5.0 to 6.5 inches. For owners balancing vintage fitment with more modern road manners, this is one of the more specialized 1956 radial sizes.
Explore 185R16 TiresRim Diameter: 16 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
The 670-16 size serves a small but distinct group of 1956 British cars, including the 1956 AC Saloon, 1956 Armstrong-Siddeley Sapphire, and 1956 Jaguar Mark. It is offered in bias-ply construction, which suits owners who want a traditional profile and period-style fitment for larger saloon applications. Current Blackwall options include Firestone and Avon products, with listed 16-inch rim diameter and, for one Firestone offering, a 4.50- to 5.00-inch rim-width range. Because this size is limited to relatively few applications, checking the exact model and wheel configuration matters before choosing a tire.
Explore 670-16 TiresRim Diameter: 400mm in · Sidewalls: Narrow Whitewall, Blackwall
165R400 is a millimetric radial size used on select 1956 European cars such as the 1956 Alfa Romeo 1900, 1956 Lancia Aurelia, and 1956 Lancia Flaminia. The 400mm rim designation is important because it is not interchangeable with a 16-inch wheel despite appearing close in overall dimension. Available Michelin products include both Blackwall and Narrow Whitewall versions, giving restorers and drivers a choice in appearance while staying within this specialized format. Depending on the specific product, listed rim-width ranges span from 4.50 to 6.00 inches or 6.0 to 7.0 inches.
Explore 165R400 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
155R15 is one of the more widely shared 1956 radial sizes, used on a broad mix of compact sedans, sports cars, and small European classics including the 1956 Alfa Romeo Giulietta, 1956 Austin A 40, 1956 MG MGA, 1956 Porsche 356 A, and 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. This size is available as a Blackwall radial from Firestone and Michelin, with multiple Michelin series represented, including X, XAS, and XAS-FF. Some products list 15-inch fitment with 4.00- to 5.50-inch rim-width compatibility, making this a key size for owners comparing road-oriented radial options within a period-friendly overall profile.
Explore 155R15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall, Wide Whitewall
The 590-15 bias-ply size appears on several 1956 sports and passenger cars, including the 1956 Austin-Healey 100, 1956 Porsche Carrera, 1956 Triumph TR3, TR4 & TR4A, and 1956 Volvo PV 444. It is also used on the 1956 Allard Palm Beach and certain 1956 Vauxhall models, making it a versatile mid-size fitment in this year. Available products include BFGoodrich and Avon Blackwall options, plus a BFGoodrich Wide Whitewall. Listed specifications include a 15-inch rim diameter, 4.00- to 4.50-inch rim-width range on some offerings, and stated capacities around 1,018 to 1,050 pounds on select products.
Explore 590-15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Blackwall
600-15 is a traditional bias-ply size used on a number of 1956 British and European sedans and touring cars, including the 1956 Alvis TC, 1956 Daimler Conquest, 1956 Morris Isis, and several 1956 Rover models. It also appears on the 1956 Volvo PV 445 and 1956 Wolseley 6/90. Current choices center on BFGoodrich Blackwall and Wide Whitewall tires, both carrying the same published maximum load capacity of 1,150 pounds at 32 psi. Some products list different wheel-width suitability, so owners should verify wheel dimensions when selecting this size for a restoration or regular collector-car use.
Explore 600-15 TiresRim Diameter: 16 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Blackwall
The 650-16 size is associated with the 1956 Allard Safari and 1956 Daimler One-O-Four, both using a larger 16-inch bias-ply fitment. It is one of the better-supported larger bias-ply sizes in the 1956 lineup, with product choices from BFGoodrich, Coker Classic, Firestone, and Garfield. Sidewall treatments include both Blackwall and Wide Whitewall, which can make a noticeable difference in finished appearance depending on the style of the vehicle. Several products list a 4.50- to 5.00-inch rim-width range and maximum load figures around 1,580 pounds at 32 psi, useful details when evaluating heavier applications.
Explore 650-16 Tires175R15 is a radial fitment used across several 1956 British and European cars, including the 1956 Alvis TC, 1956 Daimler Conquest, 1956 Humber Hawk, 1956 Morris Isis, multiple 1956 Rover models, and the 1956 Volvo PV 445. This size reflects a larger radial option than 155R15 or 165R15, often serving roomy saloons and touring cars. While product details are not shown here for this size, its role within 1956 fitment is clear: a radial alternative for vehicles that need more section width than smaller imported-car sizes. Exact wheel and clearance verification remains worthwhile on restored cars.
Explore 175R15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Redline, Narrow Whitewall, Blackwall
185R15 is a radial size used on larger 1956 European and import models such as the 1956 Austin A 90, 1956 BMW 501, 1956 BMW 502, 1956 BMW 503, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300, 1956 Renault Fregate, and 1956 Toyota Toyopet. It also appears on the 1956 Armstrong-Siddeley Sapphire and 1956 Daimler Century & Coupe. Product options span Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall, and Redline styles from Coker Classic and Michelin. Some products list rim-width compatibility from 4.5 to 6.5 inches and maximum load capacity around 1,355 to 1,433 pounds, making this size notable for both visual and fitment flexibility.
Explore 185R15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Narrow Whitewall, Blackwall
The 640-15 bias-ply size is shared by a diverse group of 1956 sedans and utility models, including the 1956 Austin A 90, 1956 BMW 501 through 503, 1956 Humber Hawk, 1956 Renault Fregate, 1956 Toyota Toyopet, 1956 Nash Rambler, 1956 Willys DJ-3A, and the 1956 Studebaker Flight Hawk & Champion. Product offerings include several Whitewall widths as well as a Narrow Whitewall treatment from BFGoodrich and Firestone. Published specifications on some tires include 15-inch rim diameter, 4.00- to 5.00-inch rim-width compatibility, and load capacities up to 1,190 pounds at 32 psi.
Explore 640-15 Tires175R16 is a radial fitment used on a focused group of 1956 performance and prestige cars, including the 1956 Aston Martin Mark, 1956 BMW 507, 1956 Jaguar XK, 1956 Jensen Interceptor, 1956 Maserati A6, 1956 Maserati Sports, 1956 Riley 2.5 Litre & Pathfinder, and 1956 Standard Vanguard. This size bridges sports-car handling character with a taller vintage-sidewall profile. Product details are not listed here for current offerings, but within 1956 fitment it stands out as a specialty radial size tied to higher-end European applications where exact wheel sizing and body clearance should be confirmed carefully.
Explore 175R16 TiresRim Diameter: 16 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Blackwall, Double-Whitewall
600-16 is one of the more prominent 16-inch bias-ply sizes for 1956, used on sports and grand-touring cars including the 1956 Aston Martin Mark, 1956 BMW 507, 1956 Ferrari America, 1956 Ferrari Europa, 1956 Ferrari Millemeglia, 1956 Jaguar XK, 1956 Jensen Interceptor, and 1956 Maserati A6. It also appears on the 1956 Riley 2.5 Litre & Pathfinder and 1956 Standard Vanguard. Available products include Blackwall and Wide Whitewall options from BFGoodrich, Coker Classic, Avon, and Firestone. Several offerings specify 4.00- to 4.50-inch rim widths and load capacity around 1,400 to 1,433 pounds.
Explore 600-16 TiresRim Diameter: 13 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
145R13 is a compact radial size used on smaller 1956 British cars such as the 1956 Austin A 30, 1956 Austin A 35, 1956 Ford Anglia, 1956 Ford Prefect, and 1956 Standard Eight. It is a good example of how many smaller postwar cars moved to narrow-section tire dimensions that differ substantially from larger American fitments of the same year. Current Blackwall radial options come from Michelin and Firestone, with one Firestone listing a 4.00- to 5.00-inch rim-width range and an 825-pound maximum load capacity at 44 psi. It is a specialized small-car size that rewards careful wheel-size confirmation.
Explore 145R13 TiresRim Diameter: 13 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall, Wide Whitewall
The 520-13 bias-ply size appears on small 1956 economy cars including the 1956 Austin A 30, 1956 Austin A 35, 1956 Ford Anglia, 1956 Ford Prefect, 1956 Metropolitan 1500, 1956 Nash Metropolitan, and 1956 Standard Eight. Current choices include a Firestone Blackwall bias-ply and several Narrow Whitewall options in the Premium Sport line. Some products list a 13-inch rim with widths around 3.5 to 4.00 inches, while published load capacities vary by tire. Because this is a compact tire size with distinct vintage proportions, buyers often focus on both appearance and wheel compatibility when selecting replacements.
Explore 520-13 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Narrow Whitewall, Wide Whitewall, Blackwall
560-15 is a bias-ply size used on a broad group of 1956 smaller and medium-displacement European cars, including the 1956 Austin A 40, 1956 Austin A 50, 1956 MG MGA, 1956 Morris Crowley, 1956 Porsche 356 A, 1956 Vauxhall Wyveren, and both 1956 Volkswagen Beetle and 1956 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia. Product choices include Narrow Whitewall and Wide Whitewall styles from Firestone and US Royal. Several tires list a 15-inch rim with fitment around 4.5 to 5.5 inches wide, and select products show a 970-pound maximum load capacity at 32 psi, useful when comparing restoration-minded options.
Explore 560-15 TiresRim Diameter: 14 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
165R14 is a radial size tied to the 1956 Austin A 55 and 1956 Fiat 1400. Though limited to two applications, it is supported by several respected radial choices from Pirelli, Michelin, and Vredestein. All listed products use a Blackwall sidewall, but they differ in series and published wheel recommendations, with some showing rim-width ranges from 4.0 to 6.0 inches. This size suits owners who want a road-friendly radial fitment on mid-sized European sedans, but because the application list is narrow, it is wise to confirm the exact vehicle model and wheel dimensions before ordering.
Explore 165R14 Tires5.90-14 is the bias-ply counterpart used on the 1956 Austin A 55 and 1956 Fiat 1400. The numeric bias-ply format is typical of the period and should be treated as its own fitment category rather than casually swapped with another size without checking wheel and clearance details. Product details are not shown here for current offerings, but this size remains relevant for owners who want to retain traditional bias-ply construction and vintage stance on these two applications. For restoration-focused projects, construction type can be just as important as the size designation itself.
Explore 5.90-14 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall, Wide Whitewall, Narrow Whitewall
670-15 is one of the most widely used 1956 bias-ply sizes, appearing across American cars and selected European models including the 1956 Chevrolet Corvette, 1956 Ford Fairlane, 1956 Ford Thunderbird, 1956 Dodge Coronet, 1956 Plymouth P28-1, 28-2 & 28-3, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300, and 1956 Facel Vega FYS. Product support is strong, with Blackwall and Wide Whitewall choices from Firestone, US Royal, Coker Classic, and Universal Vintage Tire. Several products list 15-inch fitment, wheel-width ranges from 4.50 to 6.00 inches, and maximum load figures in the 1,450- to 1,550-pound range.
Explore 670-15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Narrow Whitewall, Blackwall
165R15 is a popular radial size for 1956 sports cars and midsize imports, used on the 1956 Austin-Healey 100, 1956 Porsche Carrera, 1956 Triumph TR3, TR4 & TR4A, 1956 Volvo PV 444, 1956 Wolseley 6/90, and selected 1956 Holden and Vauxhall models. It offers a broad mix of product styles, including Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall, and Wide Whitewall radials from Coker Classic, American Classic, Firestone, and BFGoodrich. Several products share a 4.50- to 6.00-inch rim-width recommendation and published load capacities around 1,168 to 1,170 pounds, making this a versatile size for both driving and appearance-focused selections.
Explore 165R15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Narrow Whitewall, Blackwall, Wide Whitewall
The 820-15 size is a substantial 15-inch bias-ply fitment used on larger 1956 luxury and prestige cars such as the 1956 Bentley S-Type, 1956 Cadillac 60 Series, 1956 Cadillac 62 Series, 1956 Cadillac 75 Series, 1956 Chrysler Imperial, 1956 Imperial C70, 1956 Lincoln Capri, 1956 Lincoln Premiere, and 1956 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud. Product choices include Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall, and Wide Whitewall options from BFGoodrich, Firestone, and US Royal. Several products specify 6.00- to 6.50-inch rim widths and a published maximum load capacity of 1,920 pounds at 32 psi, appropriate for heavier full-size applications.
Explore 820-15 Tires195R15 is a specialized radial fitment associated with the 1956 Borgward Hansa. As one of the larger radial sizes in the 1956 European field, it points to a vehicle requiring more section width than the common 155R15 or 165R15 applications. Product details are not listed here, so buyers researching this size should pay close attention to the exact wheel and body configuration of the car. On a restored or modified Hansa, even a correct nominal size can be affected by wheel changes, making careful measurement and comparison especially important before final tire selection.
Explore 195R15 TiresRim Diameter: 13 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
165R13 is a radial size used on the 1956 Borgward Isabella and 1956 Ford Consul Eotta. This is a compact but slightly wider 13-inch radial than many small-car applications of the period, and it benefits from multiple current Blackwall options from Michelin and Dunlop. Listed products include Michelin XAS-FF, Michelin XAS, and Dunlop SP Sport Aquajet, with some showing 4.50- to 6.00-inch rim-width compatibility and a published load capacity of 1,047 pounds on one Dunlop offering. It is a useful size for owners seeking a classic European radial presentation with modern replacement availability.
Explore 165R13 TiresRim Diameter: 13 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall
590-13 is a bias-ply size shared by the 1956 Borgward Isabella and 1956 Ford Consul Eotta. Compared with radial alternatives used on some cars from the same year, this size preserves a more traditional 1950s tire construction and look. Current product coverage shown here centers on a BFGoodrich Wide Whitewall tire, with listed fitment for a 13-inch rim and a 3.50- to 4.00-inch rim-width range. The stated maximum load capacity is 970 pounds at 32 psi. Because options are limited, this size is especially relevant for owners prioritizing a specific vintage sidewall appearance.
Explore 590-13 Tires175R13 is a radial size found on several 1956 sedans and wagons, including the 1956 Ford Zephyr, 1956 Holden FE, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 219, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220, 1956 Opel Caravan & Wagon, 1956 Opel Kapitan, and certain 1956 Borgward Isabella applications. It represents a relatively broad 13-inch radial for medium-sized cars of the period. Product details are not listed here, but this fitment stands out because it spans multiple makes while remaining more specialized than smaller 13-inch sizes. On vehicles that have seen wheel substitutions over time, exact diameter and width checks are worthwhile before committing to replacement tires.
Explore 175R13 TiresRim Diameter: 13 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall
640-13 is the bias-ply counterpart used on several 1956 mid-size European cars, including the 1956 Ford Zephyr, 1956 Holden FE, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 180, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 219, 1956 Opel Caravan & Wagon, 1956 Opel Kapitan, and some 1956 Borgward Isabella fitments. Current product support shown here is a BFGoodrich Wide Whitewall, which highlights this size’s appeal for restoration-oriented presentation. The listed specifications include a 13-inch rim diameter, 4.00- to 4.50-inch rim-width compatibility, and a 1,045-pound maximum load capacity at 32 psi. It is a distinctly period-style choice for owners seeking a classic bias-ply look.
Explore 640-13 TiresRim Diameter: 16 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
500-16 appears on the 1956 Bristol 405 and 1956 Maserati Sports. The current product shown for this size is a Firestone Dirt Track Ribbed Front bias-ply tire, placing it in a more specialized category than typical passenger-car touring fitments. With its ribbed front design and performance-oriented series designation, this product is especially relevant for competition-inspired or purpose-specific applications rather than broad restoration use. Listed specs include a 16-inch rim, 4.00- to 5.00-inch wheel-width range, and a 760-pound maximum load capacity at 32 psi. Buyers should evaluate intended use carefully before choosing this tire.
Explore 500-16 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall
710-15 is a common 1956 American bias-ply size used on many full-size and upper-midrange models, including the 1956 Buick 40 Special, 1956 Ford Thunderbird, 1956 Hudson Hornet, 1956 Oldsmobile 88 Series, 1956 Nash Ambassador, and several 1956 Pontiac, Plymouth, Dodge, Studebaker, Mercury, and Ferrari applications. Current offerings include Blackwall and multiple Wide Whitewall treatments from BFGoodrich and Firestone. Listed specifications commonly show a 15-inch rim, 5.00- to 5.50-inch wheel-width range, and a 1,550-pound maximum load capacity at 32 psi. This size is central to many period-correct 1950s American tire searches.
Explore 710-15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Narrow Whitewall
The 760-15 bias-ply size is used on many larger 1956 American cars, including the 1956 Buick 50 Super, 1956 Buick 60 Century, 1956 Chrysler Windsor, 1956 De Soto S 23-8 Firedome, 1956 Dodge Custom Royal, 1956 Mercury Convertible, 1956 Oldsmobile 98 Series, and 1956 Packard 5640 Series & 5660 Clipper. Product choices include Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall, and Wide Whitewall styles from BFGoodrich, Coker Classic, and Universal Vintage Tire. Several products list 5.50- to 6.00-inch rim-width compatibility and published maximum load capacity around 1,710 pounds at 32 psi, suiting heavier postwar passenger cars.
Explore 760-15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall
800-15 is a large 15-inch bias-ply size found on upper-end 1956 American cars such as the 1956 Buick 70 Roadmaster, 1956 Cadillac 60 Series, 1956 Cadillac 62 Series, 1956 Cadillac 75 Series, 1956 Chrysler New Yorker, 1956 Lincoln Capri, 1956 Lincoln Premiere, 1956 Oldsmobile 98 Series, 1956 Oldsmobile Super 88, and 1956 Packard 5680 & 5688 Series. The current products shown are Coker Classic Wide Whitewall tires in two whitewall widths. Listed specifications include 6.00- to 6.50-inch rim-width compatibility and a maximum load capacity of 1,800 pounds at 32 psi, fitting the needs of heavier luxury-class cars.
Explore 800-15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Blackwall
890-15 is a very large bias-ply fitment associated specifically with the 1956 Cadillac 86 Series. This is one of the most specialized passenger-car sizes in the 1956 lineup and is supported by products from Firestone and Avon. Sidewall choices include Blackwall and substantial Wide Whitewall presentations, which are visually appropriate for dramatic mid-1950s luxury styling. Listed specifications include a 15-inch rim, 6.50- to 7.00-inch wheel-width range on certain Firestone offerings, and published load capacities from 2,337 pounds to 2,500 pounds, reflecting the needs of a very heavy, premium-class application.
Explore 890-15 Tires165-400 is a millimetric radial size used on 1956 Citroen and Lancia applications, including the 1956 Citroen 11, 1956 Citroen DS, 1956 Citroen ID, 1956 Lancia Aurelia, and 1956 Lancia Flaminia. The 400 designation refers to the wheel’s metric diameter, so correct wheel identification is essential. While current product details are not shown here for this exact format, the size remains important because these cars sit outside the more familiar inch-based American and British sizing patterns of the same year. Owners of European collector cars should verify both the exact size marking and wheel type before selecting replacements.
Explore 165-400 Tires155-400 is a radial millimetric size used on the 1956 Citroen 11 and 1956 Peugeot 203. Like other 400-series fitments, it requires a metric-diameter wheel and should not be treated as a direct substitute for a similarly sized inch-based tire. This type of sizing is a reminder that 1956 fitment can vary widely between American and continental European vehicles. Product specifics are not listed here, so buyers should focus on confirming the exact wheel diameter marking, tire construction, and intended use. That extra verification helps avoid mistakes on cars with unusual or mixed restoration histories.
Explore 155-400 Tires185-400 is a radial millimetric fitment used on the 1956 Citroen 11 and 1956 Peugeot 203. Compared with smaller 400-series sizes, it suggests a wider section for the vehicles that use it, but the key point remains the same: this is a metric-diameter tire format that must match the correct wheel. Product details are not listed here, making wheel confirmation even more important before shopping by appearance or brand. For owners working on French collector cars, this size stands apart from common 15- and 16-inch fitments and should be researched with attention to both the sidewall marking and wheel specification.
Explore 185-400 Tires125-400 is a highly specialized radial size associated with the 1956 Citroen CV. It is one of the narrowest and most distinctive fitments in the entire 1956 range, reflecting the lightweight, economy-focused character of the vehicle rather than the larger luxury and performance sizes seen elsewhere that year. Because this is a metric-diameter format, proper wheel matching is critical. Product details are not shown here, so buyers should verify the exact sidewall designation on the vehicle before beginning product selection. On uncommon applications like this, careful identification matters more than broad year-based assumptions.
Explore 125-400 TiresRim Diameter: 16 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Blackwall
700-16 is a larger bias-ply size used on the 1956 Daimler Four-Light Saloon and 1956 Willys 226. It has broad product representation relative to its application count, with Blackwall and Wide Whitewall choices from Lester, Avon, BFGoodrich, and Firestone. One listed option also carries a more utility-oriented Traction Mileage designation, giving this size an interesting range from formal passenger-car presentation to more robust service character. Published specifications on select products include 4.50- to 5.50-inch rim widths and load capacities from about 1,800 to 1,900 pounds, making it suitable for heavier 16-inch applications.
Explore 700-16 TiresRim Diameter: 14 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
155R14 is a radial size used on the 1956 Fiat 1100 and 1956 Simca Aronde. It is a compact, road-friendly fitment that reflects the smaller European sedans of the period rather than the larger-section American tires common elsewhere in 1956. Current Blackwall radial choices come from Michelin and Firestone, with one Firestone listing a 4.00- to 5.50-inch rim-width range and a 990-pound maximum load capacity at 44 psi. This size is a good example of how 1950s import fitment often combines narrow tread dimensions with relatively tall sidewalls, making correct size identification important for both appearance and handling.
Explore 155R14 TiresRim Diameter: 14 in · Sidewalls: Narrow Whitewall
520-14 is a bias-ply size associated with the 1956 Fiat 1100. The current product lineup shown here centers on Premium Sport narrow whitewall tires in multiple whitewall widths and design variations, making this a style-conscious option within a relatively small fitment category. Some products list a 14-inch rim, 3.50- to 4.00-inch rim-width range, and a published maximum load capacity of 1,230 pounds at 60 psi. Because the application list is narrow and the product family emphasizes appearance, owners should confirm both wheel dimensions and the visual look they want before making a final choice.
Explore 520-14 TiresRim Diameter: 14 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
175R14 is a radial fitment used on the 1956 Fiat 1400 and 1956 Fiat 1900. It is supported by Blackwall products from Michelin and Vredestein, including both Sprint and Sprint Classic series alongside Michelin XAS. Some listed products include rim-width ranges from 4.5 to 6.0 inches and published load capacity up to 1,235 pounds at 51 psi. For owners of larger mid-1950s Fiats, this size offers several recognized radial choices without moving away from the vehicle’s basic period proportions. As always with older cars, wheel width and current vehicle configuration should be checked before selection.
Explore 175R14 Tires6.40-14 is a Bias Ply tire size associated with Fiat 1400 and Fiat 1900 for 1956. Confirm the rim diameter and intended use before choosing a replacement tire.
Explore 6.40-14 TiresRim Diameter: 12 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
135R12 is a small radial size associated with the 1956 Fiat 600. The listed current option is a Firestone F560 Blackwall radial, making this a very focused fitment for one of the year’s most compact applications. Its 12-inch rim diameter sets it apart from the many 13-, 14-, and 15-inch tires used elsewhere in 1956, and it highlights how wide the year’s fitment spread really is. Because compact cars can be particularly sensitive to tire dimensions, owners should verify wheel size and available clearance carefully, especially if the car has non-original wheels or suspension changes.
Explore 135R12 TiresRim Diameter: 12 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Blackwall
520-12 is the bias-ply counterpart associated with the 1956 Fiat 600. Current products include BFGoodrich Blackwall and Wide Whitewall versions, giving owners a simple but meaningful visual choice within this small-size category. Listed specifications include a 12-inch rim diameter, and one product shows a 4-inch rim width with a 694-pound maximum load capacity at 30 psi. This size is especially relevant for restoration-minded projects where preserving a compact bias-ply profile matters. Because there are few 12-inch vintage fitments in the 1956 field, buyers should be careful to match the exact size rather than choosing by general appearance.
Explore 520-12 TiresRim Diameter: 13 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
155R13 is a radial size used on the 1956 Ford-Taunus 12M, 1956 Ford-Taunus 15M, 1956 Opel Olympia, and 1956 Standard Ten. Current Blackwall radial offerings come from Michelin and Dunlop, with one Dunlop product listing a 937-pound maximum load capacity and Michelin specifying a 4.00- to 5.50-inch rim-width range. This is a useful fitment for compact European sedans that need a slightly fuller 13-inch radial than the narrowest small-car sizes of the period. For cars restored over many decades, it is smart to confirm whether the vehicle remains on its correct wheel diameter before ordering.
Explore 155R13 TiresRim Diameter: 13 in · Sidewalls: Narrow Whitewall, Wide Whitewall
560-13 is a bias-ply size shared by the 1956 Ford-Taunus 12M, 1956 Ford-Taunus 15M, 1956 Metropolitan 1500, 1956 Opel Olympia, and 1956 Standard Ten. Product options include Narrow Whitewall and Wide Whitewall styles from BFGoodrich and Firestone, giving this small 13-inch size a distinctly period presentation. Several products list 3.50- to 4.50-inch rim-width compatibility and a maximum load capacity of 850 pounds at 30 psi. This size is a good example of how smaller 1956 cars often used narrow bias-ply tires where sidewall styling can strongly influence the finished restoration look.
Explore 560-13 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
135R15 is a radial size used on the 1956 Hillman Husky, 1956 Lloyd LT, and 1956 Saab 92. It is a notably narrow 15-inch fitment suited to lightweight European cars. Current Blackwall radial choices include Michelin X M+S 89, Michelin ZX, and Firestone F560, with some products listing 3.50- to 4.50-inch rim-width compatibility and load capacities around 780 pounds. Because this size combines a tall sidewall with a narrow section, it affects both stance and steering feel on small cars. Exact wheel width should be checked, particularly on survivors that may have accumulated replacement wheels over time.
Explore 135R15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Blackwall
500-15 is a bias-ply size used on the 1956 Hillman Husky, 1956 Lloyd LT, and 1956 Saab 92. Current products include BFGoodrich Blackwall and Wide Whitewall passenger-car tires, plus a Firestone Dirt Track Ribbed Front option that serves a more specialized purpose. Published specifications include a 15-inch rim, a 3-inch wheel width on some BFGoodrich products, and load capacities around 675 to 700 pounds at 32 psi. For owners shopping this size, intended use matters: a standard vintage touring look is different from a competition-oriented ribbed-front application, even when the nominal size matches.
Explore 500-15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
550-15 is a bias-ply size used on the 1956 Hillman Mark VIII, 1956 Holden FJ, 1956 MG Magnette, 1956 MG Midget, 1956 Morris Oxford, and 1956 Wolseley 4/44. The current product shown is an Excelsior Blackwall bias-ply with a listed 15-inch rim diameter and 3.00- to 3.50-inch wheel-width range. This is a focused, traditional fitment for smaller British and Commonwealth sedans and sports models that benefit from a classic bias-ply profile. Since product choice is limited here, owners often place extra emphasis on confirming wheel width and the overall appearance they want for the finished car.
Explore 550-15 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Blackwall
700-15 is a larger bias-ply size associated with the 1956 Humber Super Snipe. Although its application list is narrow in this year, the product range is much broader, with Blackwall and Wide Whitewall offerings from Firestone, BFGoodrich, and STA. One STA tire is identified within a military and truck series, so buyers should distinguish between passenger-car presentation and utility-oriented tread intent. Several listed products include a 15-inch rim diameter, 5.00- to 5.50-inch rim-width range, and maximum load capacities around 1,700 pounds at 32 psi, making this a substantial fitment for a large saloon.
Explore 700-15 Tires4.25-15 is a narrow bias-ply size used on the 1956 Lloyd LC, 1956 Lloyd LP, and 1956 Lloyd LS. It is one of the smallest and most specialized inch-based sizes in the 1956 lineup, reflecting lightweight microcar or economy-car applications rather than conventional mid-size sedans. Product details are not shown here, so exact wheel and size-marking confirmation are especially important when shopping this fitment. On uncommon vehicles, even small differences in wheel diameter or section width can affect drivability and body clearance, so owners should approach selection carefully and avoid substituting by guesswork.
Explore 4.25-15 TiresRim Diameter: 13 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall
700-13 is a bias-ply size associated with the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 180 and 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190. The listed current product is a Firestone Wide Whitewall, giving this size a distinctly mid-century visual presentation. Published specifications include a 13-inch rim diameter, 4.00- to 5.00-inch rim-width range, and a maximum load capacity of 1,270 pounds at 32 psi. This size is notable because it serves relatively substantial sedans on a 13-inch wheel, different from the smaller narrow-section 13-inch tires found on some economy cars. Buyers should confirm whether their car is using this bias-ply fitment or the alternate radial size available on certain models.
Explore 700-13 TiresRim Diameter: 13 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
185R13 is a radial size associated with the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190. The listed current product is a Michelin XAS-FF Blackwall radial, making this a very focused single-application fitment within the 1956 range. Its relatively wide section on a 13-inch wheel distinguishes it from the more common 145R13 or 155R13 sizes used on smaller cars. Because options are limited and the size is specialized, owners should verify the exact wheel diameter and current configuration of the vehicle before ordering. This is the kind of fitment where a careful, model-specific check is more useful than relying on general year-based assumptions.
Explore 185R13 Tires6.70-13 is a bias-ply size used on the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220. This numeric format reflects period bias-ply sizing practice and should be matched carefully rather than approximated by a modern-looking substitute without wheel and clearance checks. Product details are not listed here, but the size remains important because it highlights how one make in 1956 could use different 13-inch fitments across closely related models. For owners of collector Mercedes-Benz sedans, the key considerations are the exact sidewall marking, the desired construction type, and whether the car still retains its intended wheel specification.
Explore 6.70-13 Tires7.10-15/6 is a bias-ply size used on the 1956 Mercury All Models Except:, 1956 Pontiac 860 & 870, 1956 Pontiac Safari, 1956 Pontiac Star Chief, 1956 Studebaker Classic, and 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk & Classic. The slash-six marking is a period convention that identifies a specific fitment rather than a styling detail, so it should be treated carefully during replacement research. Product details are not shown here for this exact format, but within 1956 applications it falls into the larger American passenger-car group where load, stance, and wheel width all matter. Exact size confirmation is recommended before choosing a substitute.
Explore 7.10-15/6 TiresRim Diameter: 16 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall
525-16 is a bias-ply size used on the 1956 Morgan 2+4 Seater and 1956 Morgan Coupe. The listed product is a Deka Blackwall tire from the Deka Classic Truck series, with a published 16-inch rim diameter, 4.00- to 4.25-inch rim-width range, and a 902-pound maximum load capacity at 30 psi. This is a narrow, specialized fitment that reflects the lightweight character of the Morgan applications rather than mainstream postwar sedan sizing. Because both the vehicle and the tire size are niche by modern standards, careful wheel measurement and intended-use consideration are especially worthwhile during selection.
Explore 525-16 Tires135R14 is a radial size associated with the 1956 Morris Minor. It is one of the year’s more specialized compact radial fitments, reflecting the modest dimensions and lightweight design of the Minor. Product details are not listed here, but the size itself signals a narrow-section tire on a 14-inch wheel, very different from the broad 15-inch and 16-inch tires used on American and luxury European cars from the same year. On a Morris Minor, maintaining the correct general proportions can have a noticeable effect on steering and appearance, so exact size verification is important before choosing any replacement.
Explore 135R14 Tires5.00-14 is the bias-ply fitment associated with the 1956 Morris Minor. In the context of 1956 tire selection, it represents the traditional counterpart to the Minor’s radial option and suits owners seeking a more period-oriented construction and look. Product details are not shown here, so the emphasis should be on confirming the exact wheel size and whether the car is intended for restoration presentation, regular driving, or a mix of both. On a small, lightweight vehicle, staying close to the correct dimensions helps preserve steering response, body clearance, and the visual balance that makes these cars look right.
Explore 5.00-14 Tires145-400 is a radial millimetric size used on the 1956 Panhard Dyna. As with other 400-series fitments, the key consideration is the wheel’s metric diameter, which makes exact matching essential. This is a very specialized French application that differs sharply from the inch-based American and British sizing seen throughout the rest of the 1956 field. Product details are not listed here, so owners should begin by confirming the sidewall size marking and wheel specification already on the car. For uncommon continental applications, precision matters more than trying to generalize from similar-looking sizes.
Explore 145-400 Tires175-400 is a radial millimetric size associated with the 1956 Peugeot 203. This format uses a 400mm wheel diameter, so it belongs to a distinct family of European fitments that should not be confused with 15- or 16-inch tires. While current product details are not shown here, the size remains important for owners preserving the correct general fitment style of a French postwar sedan. Because millimetric wheel diameters are less familiar today, careful identification is essential before shopping by brand or sidewall appearance. Confirming the exact sidewall marking is the best first step on this type of application.
Explore 175-400 Tires8.00-17 is a large bias-ply fitment associated specifically with the 1956 Rolls Royce Phantom. It stands apart from most 1956 passenger-car sizes by combining a substantial section width with a 17-inch rim, underscoring the special requirements of a formal luxury chassis. Product details are not shown here, but the size itself signals a heavy-duty, prestige-oriented application where dimensions, load capability, and wheel compatibility all carry added importance. On a vehicle of this class, owners typically want both proper visual scale and suitable support, so exact verification of wheel and tire markings is advisable before selecting replacements.
Explore 8.00-17 TiresRim Diameter: 16 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall, Wide Whitewall
750-16 is a large bias-ply size used on the 1956 Rolls Royce Silver Wraith. It has strong current product support, including Blackwall and Wide Whitewall choices from Firestone, Lester, and BFGoodrich. Several products list a 16-inch rim diameter, 5.00- to 6.00-inch wheel-width range, and maximum load capacities from roughly 1,660 to 1,850 pounds depending on the tire. This is a substantial fitment that suits a heavy formal car where both visual presence and load support matter. Buyers often compare sidewall style carefully here, since whitewall width can significantly influence the finished look of a Silver Wraith.
Explore 750-16 TiresRim Diameter: 15 in · Sidewalls: Blackwall, Wide Whitewall
145R15 is a radial size associated with the 1956 Saab 92 & 93. Current offerings include Blackwall radials from Firestone and Michelin, plus a BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial Wide Whitewall option for those who want a more stylized vintage appearance. Some listed specifications include 3.50- to 5.00-inch rim-width compatibility and a maximum load capacity of 935 pounds at 44 psi on one Firestone product. This is a narrow, lightweight-car fitment where overall proportions matter as much as construction type. Owners should confirm wheel width carefully, especially on cars that may have received later replacement wheels.
Explore 145R15 Tires5.20-15 is the bias-ply fitment associated with the 1956 Saab 92 & 93. It represents the traditional counterpart to the radial alternative used on this application, giving owners a choice between period-style construction and a radial approach where appropriate for the vehicle’s setup. Product details are not listed here, so the main focus should be on confirming exact size, wheel dimensions, and intended use. On compact Swedish cars of this era, tire size has a clear effect on stance and steering feel, making it especially important not to substitute loosely based on approximate dimensions.
Explore 5.20-15 TiresRim Diameter: 14 in · Sidewalls: Wide Whitewall, Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall
560-14 is a bias-ply size associated with the 1956 Simca Aronde. Current products include BFGoodrich Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall, and Wide Whitewall options, giving buyers several appearance choices within a single vintage size. Listed specifications include a 14-inch rim diameter, 3.50- to 4.00-inch wheel-width range, and a published maximum load capacity of 906 pounds at 30 psi. This is a useful fitment for owners who want to maintain a period-style bias-ply profile on a compact French sedan. As with other small vintage sizes, exact wheel measurements help ensure the tire chosen matches the vehicle’s present configuration.
Explore 560-14 TiresPopular Makes and Models for 1956 Vehicles
The 1956 make-and-model landscape is unusually broad, stretching from compact European city cars to large American luxury sedans and sports cars. Tire fitment varies not only by make and model, but often by alternate construction within the same model line. Some vehicles appear with both radial and bias-ply options, while others use specialized millimetric or large-diameter sizes that make model-specific verification essential.
1956 AC
1956 AC models span two distinct fitment profiles. The 1956 AC Ace uses 550-16, while the 1956 AC Saloon appears with both 185R16 radial and 670-16 bias-ply sizing. That split shows how a single make could move between smaller sports-car bias-ply fitment and larger saloon applications with either construction depending on the vehicle and wheel setup.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Alfa Romeo
1956 Alfa Romeo applications center on small-to-medium European radial sizes. The 1956 Alfa Romeo 1900 uses 165R400, while the 1956 Alfa Romeo Giulietta and 1956 Alfa Romeo Sprint use 155R15. This creates a clear distinction between a millimetric 400-series fitment and a more familiar 15-inch radial, so wheel diameter identification is especially important.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Allard
1956 Allard covers two very different bias-ply applications. The 1956 Allard Palm Beach uses 590-15 and 600-15, while the 1956 Allard Safari moves to 650-16. That change in both section size and wheel diameter means product selection is more than a simple make-based search and should follow the exact model and tire size.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Alvis
The 1956 Alvis TC is represented with both 175R15 radial and 600-15 bias-ply fitments. This is a good example of a 1956 application where owners may encounter either construction family in research and product selection. The correct choice depends on the actual vehicle setup and the tire size being matched rather than the make alone.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Armstrong-Siddeley
1956 Armstrong-Siddeley fitment is concentrated in the 1956 Armstrong-Siddeley Sapphire, but the tire spread is broad. The model is associated with 185R15, 640-15, 185R16, and 670-16, covering both radial and bias-ply options in 15- and 16-inch diameters. That makes the Sapphire one of the more varied single-model fitments in the 1956 field.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Arnolt-Bristol
The 1956 Arnolt-Bristol MKII is tied to a single size, 550-16. That makes this make one of the simpler fitment cases on the page, though the size itself still benefits from checking wheel width and sidewall preference. Buyers can focus on the correct bias-ply 16-inch application without sorting through multiple model-specific size families.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Aston Martin
1956 Aston Martin fitment for the 1956 Aston Martin Mark includes both 175R16 radial and 600-16 bias-ply sizing. This pairing reflects the overlap between traditional and newer tire constructions seen on many European performance cars of the period. Choosing correctly starts with the exact tire size on the vehicle rather than assuming all 1956 Aston Martin applications are the same.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Austin
1956 Austin covers a wide range of compact and midsize models, from the 1956 Austin A 30 and 1956 Austin A 35 up through the 1956 Austin A 95. Tire sizes range from small 145R13 and 520-13 fitments to larger 670-15 applications, with several models showing both radial and bias-ply pairings. Austin is one of the clearest examples of how varied 1956 tire fitment can be within one make.
Models & Tire Sizes- 1Austin A 30 — 145R13
- 2Austin A 30 — 520-13
- 3Austin A 35 — 145R13
- 4Austin A 35 — 520-13
- 5Austin A 40 — 155R15
- 6Austin A 40 — 560-15
- 7Austin A 50 — 155R15
- 8Austin A 50 — 560-15
- 9Austin A 55 — 165R14
- 10Austin A 55 — 5.90-14
- 11Austin A 90 — 185R15
- 12Austin A 90 — 640-15
- 13Austin A 95 — 670-15
1956 Austin-Healey
The 1956 Austin-Healey 100 uses either 165R15 radial or 590-15 bias-ply sizing. That makes fitment straightforward at the make level, but still important to confirm at the tire-size level because the two constructions differ in character and product selection. Sidewall styling options also vary by size, which matters on an appearance-conscious sports car.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 BMW
1956 BMW applications split between larger saloons and a sports car. The 1956 BMW 501, 1956 BMW 502, and 1956 BMW 503 share 185R15 and 640-15 fitments, while the 1956 BMW 507 uses 175R16 and 600-16. The shared patterns simplify model research, but the difference between the sedan group and the 507 is significant.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Bentley
The 1956 Bentley S-Type is associated with a single size, 820-15. Even with just one fitment, this is a substantial luxury-car application where sidewall style and load capability are meaningful parts of the buying decision. Product selection tends to focus on larger 15-inch bias-ply tires suited to heavy, formal postwar cars.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Borgward
1956 Borgward includes two quite different fitment groups. The 1956 Borgward Hansa uses 195R15 and 670-15, while the 1956 Borgward Isabella appears with 165R13, 590-13, 175R13, and 640-13. That range covers both radial and bias-ply construction and multiple wheel diameters, so exact model identification is essential before shopping.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Bristol
The 1956 Bristol 405 is associated with 500-16. This is a narrow, specialized single-size application, and the available product style for that fitment is more specialized than many standard passenger-car offerings. Because the make has only one listed model and size here, the key step is confirming whether the vehicle still retains the intended wheel and use pattern.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Buick
1956 Buick fitment follows the larger American 15-inch bias-ply pattern. The 1956 Buick 40 Special can use 710-15 or 760-15, the 1956 Buick 50 Super and 1956 Buick 60 Century use 760-15, and the 1956 Buick 70 Roadmaster uses 800-15. Whitewall styling is especially relevant across these larger mid-1950s Buick applications.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Cadillac
1956 Cadillac uses some of the largest passenger-car sizes of the year. The 1956 Cadillac 60 Series, 1956 Cadillac 62 Series, and 1956 Cadillac 75 Series are associated with 800-15 and 820-15, while the 1956 Cadillac 86 Series uses 890-15. These are substantial bias-ply luxury-car fitments where wheel width, load support, and sidewall presentation all matter.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Chevrolet
1956 Chevrolet fitment is simple at the make level. The 1956 Chevrolet Chevrolet, 1956 Chevrolet Corvette, and 1956 Chevrolet Wagon are all associated with 670-15. Even so, that shared size can be paired with different sidewall treatments depending on the desired look, so the buying decision often comes down to style as much as basic size.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Chrysler
1956 Chrysler spans several large American bias-ply sizes. The 1956 Chrysler Crown Imperial and 1956 Chrysler Imperial use 820-15, the 1956 Chrysler New Yorker uses 800-15, and the 1956 Chrysler Windsor uses 760-15. The make stays within the full-size 15-inch category, but model rank and vehicle weight clearly influence the exact size selection.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Citroen
1956 Citroen is one of the most distinctive makes for tire research because it uses millimetric radial sizes throughout. The 1956 Citroen 11, 1956 Citroen DS, and 1956 Citroen ID use 400-series sizes, while the 1956 Citroen CV uses 125-400. These fitments require close attention to metric wheel diameter rather than familiar inch-based conventions.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 DKW
The 1956 DKW F800/3 uses 550-16. This single-size application keeps the make straightforward within the 1956 guide, though buyers should still confirm the correct wheel dimensions and intended construction. As with many limited-application sizes, product selection is driven more by the exact tire size than by the make name alone.
Models & Tire Sizes- 1DKW F800/3 — 550-16
1956 Daimler
1956 Daimler shows substantial fitment variety. The 1956 Daimler Century & Coupe uses 185R15 and 670-15, the 1956 Daimler Conquest uses 175R15 and 600-15, the 1956 Daimler Four-Light Saloon uses 700-16, and the 1956 Daimler One-O-Four uses 185R16 and 650-16. This make spans both radial and bias-ply constructions across several wheel diameters.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 De Soto
1956 De Soto fitment is concentrated and easy to follow. Both the 1956 De Soto S 23-8 Firedome and 1956 De Soto S 24-8 Fireflite use 760-15. That shared size keeps product selection centered on larger 15-inch bias-ply touring tires, where sidewall treatment can help match the car’s styling and restoration goals.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Dodge
1956 Dodge covers a cluster of full-size 15-inch bias-ply sizes. The 1956 Dodge Coronet appears with 670-15, 710-15, and 760-15, the 1956 Dodge Royal with 710-15 and 760-15, and the 1956 Dodge Custom Royal with 760-15. That spread makes model-specific and trim-aware size confirmation important before choosing products.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Facel Vega
The 1956 Facel Vega FYS is associated with 670-15. This keeps fitment straightforward, but the size itself sits within a broad group of larger 1956 passenger-car applications where Blackwall and Wide Whitewall choices can create very different finished looks. Exact wheel width should still be checked before final product selection.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Ferrari
1956 Ferrari fitment is consistent across the listed models. The 1956 Ferrari America, 1956 Ferrari Europa, and 1956 Ferrari Millemeglia all use 600-16 and 710-15. That gives buyers a clear split between a 16-inch bias-ply sports-touring fitment and a larger 15-inch alternative, depending on the exact setup being matched.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Fiat
1956 Fiat ranges from the compact 1956 Fiat 600 up to the 1956 Fiat 1900, with tire sizes spanning 12-, 14-, and mixed radial and bias-ply 14-inch applications. The 1956 Fiat 1100, 1956 Fiat 1400, and 1956 Fiat 1900 each show their own size families, making Fiat one of the more varied small-displacement European makes in the year.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Ford
1956 Ford includes both small British models and larger American cars. The 1956 Ford Anglia and 1956 Ford Prefect use compact 13-inch sizes, the 1956 Ford Consul Eotta and 1956 Ford Zephyr move into larger European fitments, and the 1956 Ford Fairlane, 1956 Ford Mainline, and 1956 Ford Thunderbird use 670-15 and 710-15. The make spans very different tire categories.
Models & Tire Sizes- 1Ford Anglia — 145R13
- 2Ford Anglia — 520-13
- 3Ford Consul Eotta — 590-13
- 4Ford Consul Eotta — 165R13
- 5Ford Fairlane — 670-15
- 6Ford Fairlane — 710-15
- 7Ford Mainline — 670-15
- 8Ford Mainline — 710-15
- 9Ford Prefect — 145R13
- 10Ford Prefect — 520-13
- 11Ford Thunderbird — 670-15
- 12Ford Thunderbird — 710-15
- 13Ford Zephyr — 175R13
- 14Ford Zephyr — 640-13
1956 Ford-Taunus
The 1956 Ford-Taunus 12M and 1956 Ford-Taunus 15M share the same pairings of 155R13 and 560-13. That gives this make a compact, neatly grouped fitment profile with both radial and bias-ply 13-inch options. Buyers can focus on construction preference and sidewall appearance once the model is confirmed.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Hillman
1956 Hillman uses two distinct fitment families. The 1956 Hillman Husky uses 135R15 and 500-15, while the 1956 Hillman Mark VIII uses 155R15 and 550-15. Both models reflect small-car proportions, but the change in section width and wheel style means the two should not be treated as interchangeable applications.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Holden
1956 Holden shows meaningful variation between models. The 1956 Holden FE uses 175R13 and 640-13, while the 1956 Holden FJ is associated with 165R15, 590-15, 155R15, and 550-15. That spread covers multiple wheel diameters and both radial and bias-ply constructions, making exact model verification especially important.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Hudson
1956 Hudson stays within the larger American bias-ply 15-inch range. The 1956 Hudson Hornet uses 710-15 and 760-15, while the 1956 Hudson Wasp uses 670-15. This is a good example of size variation by vehicle class within the same make, with the larger model moving to heavier-duty fitments.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Humber
1956 Humber applications are straightforward but distinct. The 1956 Humber Hawk uses 175R15 and 640-15, combining radial and bias-ply possibilities, while the 1956 Humber Super Snipe uses 700-15. That difference reflects the wider, heavier fitment needs of the larger saloon within the same make.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Imperial
The 1956 Imperial C70 and 1956 Imperial C73 both use 820-15. This makes Imperial one of the simpler full-size luxury makes in the guide, centered on a large 15-inch bias-ply fitment. Tire selection here is likely to focus on sidewall style, brand preference, and load-appropriate construction rather than sorting through multiple sizes.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Jaguar
1956 Jaguar splits neatly between saloon and sports-car fitments. The 1956 Jaguar Mark uses 185R16 and 670-16, while the 1956 Jaguar XK uses 175R16 and 600-16. Both models can be researched through a radial-versus-bias-ply lens, but the exact size families differ enough that model-specific confirmation is still essential.
Models & Tire Sizes- 1Jaguar Mark — 185R16
- 2Jaguar Mark — 670-16
- 3Jaguar XK — 175R16
- 4Jaguar XK — 600-16
1956 Jensen
1956 Jensen includes the 1956 Jensen 541 with 550-16 and the 1956 Jensen Interceptor with 175R16 and 600-16. That creates a clear separation between a smaller single-size application and a larger sports-touring fitment with either radial or bias-ply possibilities. Buyers should identify the exact model first, then compare tire constructions within the relevant size.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Lancia
1956 Lancia is centered on European radial fitments, including both inch-based and millimetric sizes. The 1956 Lancia Appia uses 155R15, while the 1956 Lancia Aurelia and 1956 Lancia Flaminia use 165-400 and 165R400. The main distinction within this make is between standard 15-inch wheels and the specialized 400mm format.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Lincoln
1956 Lincoln fitment is shared across both listed models. The 1956 Lincoln Capri and 1956 Lincoln Premiere use 800-15 and 820-15. These are large luxury-car bias-ply sizes where whitewall width, wheel width, and overall visual scale all play a meaningful role in product selection.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Lloyd
1956 Lloyd covers very small car applications with narrow-section tires. The 1956 Lloyd LC, 1956 Lloyd LP, and 1956 Lloyd LS use 4.25-15, while the 1956 Lloyd LT uses 135R15 and 500-15. That makes Lloyd one of the smallest-scale fitment groups in the 1956 guide and one where exact size matching is especially important.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 MG
1956 MG uses compact British sports and saloon sizes with a mix of radial and bias-ply pairings. The 1956 MG MG and 1956 MG MGA use 155R15 and 560-15, while the 1956 MG Magnette and 1956 MG Midget use 155R15 and 550-15. Construction choice and sidewall appearance both matter within this make.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Maserati
1956 Maserati fitment focuses on sports-car sizes. The 1956 Maserati A6 uses 175R16 and 600-16, while the 1956 Maserati Sports adds 500-16 alongside 175R16 and 600-16. That extra 500-16 application makes the Sports model more specialized and potentially more use-specific than the A6.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Mercedes-Benz
1956 Mercedes-Benz covers several different fitment patterns, from 13-inch sedan sizes to larger 15-inch applications. The 1956 Mercedes-Benz 180, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 219, and 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220 use varied 13-inch radial and bias-ply combinations, while the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 uses 760-15, 185R15, and 670-15. This make rewards especially careful model-level confirmation.
Models & Tire Sizes- 1Mercedes-Benz 180 — 640-13
- 2Mercedes-Benz 180 — 700-13
- 3Mercedes-Benz 190 — 185R13
- 4Mercedes-Benz 190 — 700-13
- 5Mercedes-Benz 219 — 175R13
- 6Mercedes-Benz 219 — 640-13
- 7Mercedes-Benz 220 — 175R13
- 8Mercedes-Benz 220 — 6.70-13
- 9Mercedes-Benz 300 — 760-15
- 10Mercedes-Benz 300 — 185R15
- 11Mercedes-Benz 300 — 670-15
1956 Mercury
1956 Mercury stays in the full-size American 15-inch range. The 1956 Mercury All Models Except: uses 7.10-15/6 and 710-15, while the 1956 Mercury Convertible and 1956 Mercury Wagons use 760-15. This is a relatively tight fitment group, but the distinction between the slash-marked size and the larger 760-15 should be respected.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Metropolitan
The 1956 Metropolitan 1500 uses 520-13 and 560-13. That gives the make a compact bias-ply profile with a choice between two small 13-inch sizes. Because these cars are light and visually sensitive to tire proportions, confirming the exact intended fitment is worthwhile before deciding between available whitewall styles.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Morgan
1956 Morgan uses narrow 16-inch bias-ply sizes. The 1956 Morgan 2+4 Seater uses 525-16 and 550-16, while the 1956 Morgan Coupe uses 525-16. These are lightweight, specialized applications where wheel width and the intended driving use deserve close attention during tire selection.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Morris
1956 Morris includes several distinct fitment groups. The 1956 Morris Crowley uses 155R15 and 560-15, the 1956 Morris Isis uses 175R15 and 600-15, the 1956 Morris Minor uses 135R14 and 5.00-14, and the 1956 Morris Oxford uses 155R15 and 550-15. This make spans everything from compact economy tires to larger saloon fitments.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Nash
1956 Nash ranges from compact to full-size applications. The 1956 Nash Metropolitan uses 520-13, the 1956 Nash Rambler uses 640-15, the 1956 Nash Statesman uses 670-15, and the 1956 Nash Ambassador uses 710-15 and 760-15. That progression reflects clear size increases across the make’s vehicle lineup.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Oldsmobile
1956 Oldsmobile remains in the larger American 15-inch bias-ply class but varies by series. The 1956 Oldsmobile 88 Series uses 710-15 and 760-15, while the 1956 Oldsmobile 98 Series and 1956 Oldsmobile Super 88 use 760-15 and 800-15. The pattern reflects the larger footprint expected on higher-series cars.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Opel
1956 Opel shows two compact 13-inch fitment groups. The 1956 Opel Caravan & Wagon and 1956 Opel Kapitan use 175R13 and 640-13, while the 1956 Opel Olympia uses 155R13 and 560-13. Both radial and bias-ply constructions appear, but the exact section width depends on the model family.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Packard
1956 Packard uses larger 15-inch bias-ply sizes tied to model series. The 1956 Packard 5640 Series & 5660 Clipper uses 760-15, while the 1956 Packard 5680 & 5688 Series uses 800-15. The make stays within the full-size American class, with fitment stepping up as the series becomes more substantial.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Panhard
The 1956 Panhard Dyna uses 145-400. This is a specialized millimetric radial fitment that sits outside the typical inch-based patterns seen on most 1956 vehicles. For this make, correct wheel-diameter identification is the key first step before comparing any available tire options.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Peugeot
The 1956 Peugeot 203 is associated with 155-400, 155R15, 185-400, and 175-400. That gives Peugeot one of the broadest single-model size spreads in the 1956 guide, mixing millimetric radial fitments with a 15-inch radial size. Exact wheel and tire-marking confirmation is essential before product selection.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Plymouth
1956 Plymouth fitment is consistent across the listed series groupings. Both the 1956 Plymouth P28-1, 28-2 & 28-3 and 1956 Plymouth P29-1, 29-2 & 29-3 use 670-15 and 710-15. That keeps the make firmly within the mid-size American bias-ply range, with sidewall styling often becoming the main product differentiator.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Pontiac
1956 Pontiac applications share the same larger 15-inch sizing pattern. The 1956 Pontiac 860 & 870, 1956 Pontiac Safari, and 1956 Pontiac Star Chief all use 7.10-15/6 and 710-15. This gives the make a focused fitment profile where the main task is confirming the exact sidewall size format and preferred appearance.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Porsche
1956 Porsche fitment separates neatly by model. The 1956 Porsche 356 A uses 155R15 and 560-15, while the 1956 Porsche Carrera uses 165R15 and 590-15. Both models can be approached through either radial or bias-ply sizing, but the Carrera moves to a slightly larger size family than the 356 A.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Renault
The 1956 Renault Fregate uses 185R15 and 640-15. That puts Renault within the group of 1956 imports that can appear with either radial or bias-ply fitment depending on the size being matched. Buyers should confirm which construction and dimensions the vehicle is intended to run before comparing product choices.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Riley
The 1956 Riley 2.5 Litre & Pathfinder uses 175R16 and 600-16. This is a straightforward two-size fitment profile combining radial and bias-ply 16-inch options. The key distinction is construction rather than multiple wheel diameters, making size confirmation and driving-goal alignment especially useful when selecting tires.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Rolls Royce
1956 Rolls Royce uses three distinct large-format bias-ply sizes. The 1956 Rolls Royce Phantom uses 8.00-17, the 1956 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud uses 820-15, and the 1956 Rolls Royce Silver Wraith uses 750-16. This is one of the clearest prestige-luxury fitment spreads in the year, with each model standing in its own size category.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Rover
1956 Rover fitment is very consistent. The 1956 Rover 60, 1956 Rover 75, and 1956 Rover 75, 90, 105R & 105S all use 175R15 and 600-15. That gives Rover a simple two-construction profile, making the main choice whether the vehicle is being matched to the radial or bias-ply side of its fitment range.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Saab
1956 Saab uses small, narrow-section tire sizes suited to lightweight cars. The 1956 Saab 92 uses 135R15 and 500-15, while the 1956 Saab 92 & 93 uses 145R15 and 5.20-15. Even these closely related models show a meaningful size change, so exact identification is important before ordering.
Models & Tire Sizes- 1Saab 92 — 135R15
- 2Saab 92 — 500-15
- 3Saab 92 & 93 — 145R15
- 4Saab 92 & 93 — 5.20-15
1956 Simca
The 1956 Simca Aronde uses 155R14 and 560-14. This simple two-size fitment profile offers a clear radial-versus-bias-ply path within a compact 14-inch application. Buyers can focus on construction and sidewall preference once the model and wheel size are confirmed.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Singer
The 1956 Singer Hunter uses 550-16. That makes Singer a straightforward single-size make in the 1956 guide, centered on a classic bias-ply 16-inch application. Product selection is more about brand and sidewall look than sorting through multiple vehicle-specific sizes.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Standard
1956 Standard ranges from small 13-inch economy-car fitments to larger 16-inch applications. The 1956 Standard Eight uses 145R13 and 520-13, the 1956 Standard Ten uses 155R13 and 560-13, and the 1956 Standard Vanguard uses 175R16, 600-16, and 550-16. This make spans several very different tire families.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Studebaker
1956 Studebaker covers a broad American 15-inch range with several model groupings. Applications include 640-15, 670-15, 7.10-15/6, and 710-15 depending on whether the vehicle is a 1956 Studebaker Flight Hawk & Champion, 1956 Studebaker Power Hawk & Commander, 1956 Studebaker Classic, or Golden Hawk grouping. Trim-specific confirmation is important here.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Sunbeam
The 1956 Sunbeam Alpine, 1956 Sunbeam Mark, and 1956 Sunbeam Sunbeam all share 550-16. This gives Sunbeam a concise single-size fitment profile in the 1956 guide. Once the model is confirmed, product selection can concentrate on the available bias-ply brands and preferred sidewall appearance.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Toyota
The 1956 Toyota Toyopet uses 185R15 and 640-15. That puts Toyota among the makes that bridge radial and bias-ply choices within a single model application. It is a straightforward fitment pattern, but the difference in construction and section profile still makes exact size confirmation important.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Triumph
The 1956 Triumph TR3, TR4 & TR4A uses 165R15 and 590-15. This gives Triumph a classic sports-car fitment profile with either radial or bias-ply sizing in a 15-inch format. For these applications, owners often weigh road-use preference and sidewall style along with the exact size itself.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Vauxhall
1956 Vauxhall includes two related fitment groups. The 1956 Vauxhall Cresta and 1956 Vauxhall Velox use 165R15 and 590-15, while the 1956 Vauxhall Wyveren uses 155R15 and 560-15. That split keeps the make within compact-to-midsize 15-inch territory, but the exact section size depends on the model.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Volkswagen
The 1956 Volkswagen Beetle and 1956 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia share 155R15 and 560-15. This creates a very clear fitment pattern for the make, with a choice between radial and bias-ply paths in the same general 15-inch family. Sidewall treatment can strongly influence the final look on both models.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Volvo
1956 Volvo separates by body size. The 1956 Volvo PV 444 uses 165R15 and 590-15, while the 1956 Volvo PV 445 uses 175R15 and 600-15. Both models offer a radial and bias-ply pairing, but the PV 445 steps up into a larger tire family than the PV 444.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Willys
1956 Willys uses two distinct fitment patterns. The 1956 Willys 226 uses 700-16 and 670-15, while the 1956 Willys DJ-3A uses 640-15. This make moves between a larger 16-inch bias-ply option and more conventional 15-inch passenger-car sizing, so the model name matters as much as the year.
Models & Tire Sizes1956 Wolseley
1956 Wolseley includes two separate size families. The 1956 Wolseley 4/44 uses 155R15 and 550-15, while the 1956 Wolseley 6/90 uses 165R15 and 600-15. Both applications pair radial and bias-ply options, but the larger 6/90 moves to a wider and heavier-duty tire range than the 4/44.
Models & Tire SizesBest 1956 Vehicle Tires for Sale
Tires for 1956 vehicles cover a wide mix of brands, constructions, and sidewall styles, from compact radial fitments for European cars to large bias-ply whitewall tires for American luxury models. Depending on the applicable tire size, choices may include Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall, Wide Whitewall, or even Redline styling from brands such as Michelin, Firestone, BFGoodrich, Avon, Coker Classic, and others. Product selection should always follow the exact size and vehicle application.
Excelsior | 550-16
Excelsior · Excelsior Bias Ply
Avon Tourist | 550-16 80L
Avon · Tourist Crossply
BFGoodrich 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 550-16
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 2.50 Inch Whitewall | 550-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich | 550-16
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone | 550-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Michelin X Radial | 185R16 92S
Michelin · Michelin X Radial
Avon Turbosteel | 185VR16 93V
Avon · Turbosteel CR6D
Vredestein Sprint Classic | 185VR16
Vredestein · Sprint Classic
Firestone | 670-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Avon Turbospeed | 670H16 89H
Avon · Turbospeed Mk4
Michelin X Radial | Narrow Whitewall | 165R400
Michelin · Michelin X Radial
Michelin X-Stop | 165R400
Michelin · Michelin X Radial
Firestone F560 Radial Tire | 155R15
Firestone · F560 Radial
Michelin X | 155R15
Michelin · Michelin X Radial
Michelin XAS | 155HR15
Michelin · Michelin XAS
Michelin XAS-FF | 155HR15 82H
Michelin · Michelin XAS-FF
Avon CR6ZZ | 155R15 82H A29
Avon · CR6ZZ
Vredestein Snow Classic | 155R15 82 Q
Vredestein · Snow Classic
Vredestein Sprint Classic | 155SR15
Vredestein · Sprint Classic
BFGoodrich | 590-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Avon Turbospeed | 590H15 81H
Avon · Turbospeed Mk4
BFGoodrich 2.625 Inch Whitewall | 590-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 2.625 Inch Whitewall | 600-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich | 600-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 3.75 Inch Whitewall | 650-16
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Coker Classic | 650-16
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Bias Ply
Firestone | 650-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Garfield Zig Zag Tread Wide Whitewall | 650-16
Garfield · Garfield Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich | 650-16
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 3.00 Inch Whitewall Nonscript | 650-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Excelsior | 650-16
Excelsior · Excelsior Bias Ply
Garfield Zig Zag Tread | 650-16
Garfield · Garfield Classic Bias Ply
Lester Wide Whitewall | 650-16
Lester · Lester Classic Bias Ply
Coker Classic 2.50 Inch Whitewall | 650-16
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 4.00 Inch Whitewall | 650-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Goodyear Deluxe All-Weather 4 inch Whitewall | 650-16
Goodyear · Deluxe All-Weather
Goodyear Deluxe All-Weather | 650-16
Goodyear · Deluxe All-Weather
STA Transport | 650-16 6PR
STA · Transport
Military | NDT | 650-16
STA · STA Classic Military
STA Super Traxion | 650-16
STA · Super Traxion
STA Transport Highway | 6 Ply Rated Tubeless | 650-16
STA · Transport Highway
Tornel Highway | 6 Ply | 650-16
Tornel · Tornel Classic Truck
Firestone Knobby | Truck Tread | 650-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Truck
Coker Classic | Redline | 185R15
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Radial
Michelin XVS | Narrow Whitewall | 185HR15
Michelin · Michelin XVS
Michelin XVS | 185HR15 93H
Michelin · Michelin XVS
Michelin XVS | 185VR15
Michelin · Michelin XVS
Avon Turbosteel | 185VR15
Avon · Turbosteel CR3B
Universal Sport | Redline | 185R15
Universal Vintage Tire · Universal Sport
Universal Sport | Blackwall | 185R15 93H
Universal Vintage Tire · Universal Sport
BFGoodrich 3.00 Inch Whitewall | 640-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 2.75 Inch Whitewall | 640-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 2.125 Inch Whitewall | 640-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 640-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Avon Super Safety | 640H15 83H
Avon · Super Safety Crossply
BFGoodrich | 640-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone | 640-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Excelsior | 640-15
Excelsior · Excelsior Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 3.50 Inch Whitewall | 600-16
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Coker Classic | 600-16
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Bias Ply
Avon Turbospeed | 600H16 93H
Avon · Turbospeed Mk4
Firestone 3.25 Inch Whitewall | 600-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Ford Script 3.50 Inch Whitewall | 600-16
Ford Script · Ford Script
BFGoodrich | 600-16
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Excelsior | 600-16
Excelsior · Excelsior Bias Ply
Lester | 600-16
Lester · Lester Classic Bias Ply
Firestone | 600-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Ford Script Blackwall | 600-16
Ford Script · Ford Script
Avon Tourist | 600-16 86L
Avon · Tourist Crossply
Coker Classic 3.00 Inch Whitewall | 600-16
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 3.25 Inch Double Whitewall | 600-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Ford Script 3.50 Inch Double Whitewall | 600-16
Ford Script · Ford Script
Avon Traction Mileage | 600-16C 97/94L
Avon · Traction Mileage
Goodyear Military NDT | 600-16
Goodyear · Goodyear Military NDT
Goodyear Deluxe All-Weather 3.5 inch Whitewall | 600-16
Goodyear · Deluxe All-Weather
Goodyear Deluxe All-Weather | 600-16
Goodyear · Deluxe All-Weather
Firestone Military | NDT | 600-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Military
Firestone Military NDT | 600-16
Firestone · Firestone Military NDT
NDT Military 6 Ply | 600-16
STA · Military NDT
Ford Military | NDT | 600-16
Ford Script · Military NDT
Firestone Military NDT | 600-16
Firestone · Firestone Military NDT
Camac Nato Tread | 6 Ply Rated Tube Type | 600-16
Camac · NATO CJ110
Firestone Knobby | Truck Tread | 600-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Truck
NDT Military 4 Ply | 600-16
STA · Military NDT
Michelin XAS FF | 145R13
Michelin · Michelin XAS-FF
Firestone F560 Radial Tire | 145R13
Firestone · F560 Radial
Firestone Bias Ply Siped Upper Sidewall | 520-13
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Premium Sport 5/8 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | New Design
Premium Sport · Premium Sport Lowrider
Premium Sport 1.25 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | Original Design
Premium Sport · Premium Sport Lowrider
Premium Sport 1.25 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | New Design
Premium Sport · Premium Sport Lowrider
Firestone 2.00 Inch Whitewall | 520-13
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Premium Sport 5/8 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | Original Design
Premium Sport · Premium Sport Lowrider
Firestone 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 560-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
US Royal 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 560-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 2.75 Inch Whitewall | 560-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
US Royal 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 560-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
Coker Classic 2.75 Inch Whitewall | 560-15
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Bias Ply
Firestone | 560-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
US Royal | 560-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
Pro-Trac Front Runner | 560-15
Pro-Trac · Street Pro Front Runner
Pirelli Cinturato CA67 | 165R14 84H
Pirelli · Cinturato CA67
Michelin XAS | 165HR14 84H
Michelin · Michelin XAS
Vredestein Sprint Classic | 165HR14 84H
Vredestein · Sprint Classic
Firestone | 670-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
US Royal 2 11/16 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
Coker Classic 2.75 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Bias Ply
Universal | 670-15
Universal Vintage Tire · Universal Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 2.50 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Excelsior | 670-15
Excelsior · Excelsior Bias Ply
Firestone 2 6875 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
US Royal 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
US Royal | 670-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
Universal 2.69 Inch Wide Whitewall | 670-15
Universal Vintage Tire · Universal Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 3.625 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 3.25 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
US Royal 2.50 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
Universal 1 Inch Wide Whitewall | 670-15
Universal Vintage Tire · Universal Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 2.75 Inch Whitewall | 670-15S
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Avon Turbospeed | 670H15 91H
Avon · Turbospeed Mk4
Universal 325 in Wide Whitewall | 670-15
Universal Vintage Tire · Universal Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich | 670-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 670-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Goodyear Super Cushion 4.25 inch Whitewall | 670-15
Goodyear · Super Cushion
Goodyear Custom Super Cushion 2.25 inch Whitewall | 670-15
Goodyear · Custom Super Cushion
Goodyear Custom Super Cushion | 670-15
Goodyear · Custom Super Cushion
Goodyear Super Cushion Deluxe 2.6875 inch Whitewall | 670-15
Goodyear · Super Cushion Deluxe
Goodyear Custom Super Cushion 1 inch Whitewall | 670-15
Goodyear · Custom Super Cushion
STA Super Transport | 670-15
STA · Super Transport
Coker Classic | 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 165R15
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Radial
American Classic Radial |.75 Inch Whitewall | 165R15
American Classic · American Classic Radial
Firestone F560 Radial Tire | 165R15
Firestone · F560 Radial
BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial | 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 165R15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Radial
Michelin XZX | 165R15 86S
Michelin · Michelin XZX
Michelin XAS | 165HR15
Michelin · Michelin XAS
BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial |.75 Inch Whitewall | 165R15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Radial
Michelin XAS | 165VR15 | N Code
Michelin · Michelin XAS
Michelin XZX | Narrow Whitewall | 165R15
Michelin · Michelin XZX
American Classic Radial | 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 165R15
American Classic · American Classic Radial
Coker Classic Star Series | 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 165R15
Coker Classic · Star Series
Coker Classic Star Series | 3/4 Inch Whitewall | 165R15
Coker Classic · Star Series
Vredestein Snow Classic | 165R15 86 Q
Vredestein · Snow Classic
Vredestein Sprint Classic | H rated | 165R15
Vredestein · Sprint Classic
BFGoodrich 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 820-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich | 820-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone | 820-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
US Royal 3.50 Inch Whitewall | 820-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
Universal 3.50 Inch Wide Whitewall | 820-15
Universal Vintage Tire · Universal Classic Bias Ply
Avon Turbospeed | 820H15 102H
Avon · Turbospeed Mk4
BFGoodrich 2.50 Inch Whitewall | 820-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 3.50 Inch Whitewall | 820-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
US Royal 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 820-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
US Royal Safety 800 1.00 Inch whitewall | 820-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 3.625 Inch Whitewall | 820-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 4.25 Inch Whitewall | 820-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
US Royal 2.75 Inch Whitewall | 820-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
Universal 2.25 Inch Wide Whitewall | 820-15
Universal Vintage Tire · Universal Classic Bias Ply
Firestone Dirt Track | Grooved Rear | 820-15
Firestone · Dirt Track
Firestone Dragster Cheater Slick | 820-15
Firestone · Dragster Cheater
Firestone Dragster Cheater Slick | 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 820-15
Firestone · Dragster Cheater
Michelin XAS-FF | 165HR13 82H
Michelin · Michelin XAS-FF
Michelin XAS | 165HR13 82H
Michelin · Michelin XAS
Dunlop SP Sport Aquajet | 165HR13
Dunlop · SP Sport Aquajet
BFGoodrich 2.375 Inch Whitewall | 590-13S
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 640-13S
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone Dirt Track | Ribbed Front | 500-16
Firestone · Dirt Track
BFGoodrich 2.50 Inch Whitewall | 710-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich | 710-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone | 710-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 3.875 Inch Whitewall | 710-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 2.75 Inch Whitewall | 710-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 2.50 Inch Whitewall | 710-15S
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Universal 2.75 Inch Wide Whitewall | 710-15
Universal Vintage Tire · Universal Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 710-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 3.00 Inch Whitewall | 710-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 3.25 Inch Whitewall | 710-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
US Royal Tires | 710-15
US Royal · US Royal Classic Bias Ply
Goodyear Super Cushion Deluxe 2.75 inch Whitewall | 710-15
Goodyear · Super Cushion Deluxe
Goodyear Super Cushion 4.25 inch Whitewall | 710-15
Goodyear · Super Cushion
BFGoodrich 3.375 Inch Whitewall | 760-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 760-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Coker Classic 3.00 Inch Whitewall | 760-15
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Bias Ply
Universal 3.00 Inch Wide Whitewall | 760-15
Universal Vintage Tire · Universal Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 2.50 Inch Whitewall | 760-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 2.50 Inch Whitewall | 760-15S
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Goodyear Super Cushion Deluxe 2.75 inch Whitewall | 760-15
Goodyear · Super Cushion Deluxe
Coker Classic 3.00 Inch Whitewall | 800-15
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Bias Ply
Coker Classic 2.50 Inch Whitewall | 800-15
Coker Classic · Coker Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 3.00 Inch Whitewall | 890-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 5.00 Inch Whitewall | 890-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Avon Turbospeed | 890-15 110S
Avon · Turbospeed Mk4
Lester Wide Whitewall | 700-16
Lester · Lester Classic Bias Ply
Avon Traction Mileage | 700-16C 102/100L
Avon · Traction Mileage
BFGoodrich | 700-16
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 4.00 Inch Whitewall | 700-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 4.00 Inch Whitewall | 700-16
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone | 700-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Firestone Military | NDT | 700-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Military
Tornel Light Truck | 6 Ply | 700-16
Tornel · Tornel Classic Truck
Firestone Military | NDCC | 700-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Military
Military | NDT | 700-16
STA · Military NDT
Michelin X | 155R14
Michelin · Michelin X Radial
Firestone F560 Radial Tire | 155R14
Firestone · F560 Radial
Premium Sport 5/8 Inch Whitewall | 520-14 | New Design
Premium Sport · Premium Sport Lowrider
Premium Sport 5/8 Inch Whitewall | 520-14 | Original Design
Premium Sport · Premium Sport Lowrider
Premium Sport 1.25 Inch Whitewall | 520-14 | Original Design
Premium Sport · Premium Sport Lowrider
Premium Sport 1.25 Inch Whitewall | 520-14 | New Design
Premium Sport · Premium Sport Lowrider
Premium Sport 5/8 Inch Whitewall | 520-14 | Discontinued
Premium Sport · Premium Sport Lowrider
Michelin XAS | 175HR14
Michelin · Michelin XAS
Vredestein Sprint Plus | 175R14
Vredestein · Sprint Plus
Vredestein Sprint Classic | 175HR14
Vredestein · Sprint Classic
Firestone F560 Radial Tire | 135R12
Firestone · F560 Radial
BFGoodrich 2.00 Inch Whitewall | 520-12
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich | 520-12
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Michelin XAS | 155HR13
Michelin · Michelin XAS-FF
Dunlop SP Sport Aquajet | 155HR13
Dunlop · SP Sport Aquajet
BFGoodrich 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 560-13S
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 560-13S
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 560-13
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Michelin X M+S 89 | 135R15 72Q
Michelin · Michelin X M+S 89
Michelin ZX | 135SR15 72S
Michelin · Michelin ZX
Firestone F560 Radial Tire | 135R15
Firestone · F560 Radial
BFGoodrich 2.00 Inch Whitewall | 500-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich | 500-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone Dirt Track Ribbed | Front | 500-15
Firestone · Dirt Track
Excelsior | 550-15
Excelsior · Excelsior Bias Ply
Firestone 4.125 Inch Whitewall | 700-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Firestone | 700-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 4.125 Inch Whitewall | 700-15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
STA Traxion | 700-15
STA · Traxion
Firestone Military | NDCC | 700-15
Firestone · Firestone Classic Military
STA Super Transport | 700-15 (Special Order)
STA · Super Transport
STA Transport Highway | 6 Ply Rated Tube Type | 700-15
STA · Transport Highway
STA Traxion | 700-15
STA · Traxion
STA Transport Highway | 8 Ply Rated Tubeless | 700-15
STA · Transport Highway
Firestone 5/8 Inch Whitewall | 700-13
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Michelin XAS-FF | 185HR13 88H
Michelin · Michelin XAS-FF
Deka | 525-16
Deka · Deka Classic Truck
Firestone | 750-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Lester Wide Whitewall | 750-16
Lester · Lester Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 4.125 Inch Whitewall | 750-16
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Firestone 4.50 Inch Whitewall | 750-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Bias Ply
Firestone Military | NDT | 750-16
Firestone · Firestone Classic Military
STA Super Traxion | 750-16
STA · Super Traxion
STA | Super Transport | 750-16
STA · Super Transport
STA Transport Highway | 750-16 10 Ply
STA · Transport Highway
STA Traxion | 750-16
STA · Traxion
STA Transport Highway | 750-16 8 Ply
STA · Transport Highway
Firestone F560 Radial Tire | 145R15
Firestone · F560 Radial
Michelin XZX | 145SR15 78S
Michelin · Michelin XZX
BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial | 1.875 Inch Whitewall | 145R15
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Radial
BFGoodrich 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 560-14
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich | 560-14
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
BFGoodrich 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 560-14
BFGoodrich · Silvertown Classic Bias Ply
Frequently Asked Questions
These FAQs cover the main 1956 tire research topics, including size identification, vehicle applications, construction differences, available product styles, and practical fitment checks. Because 1956 includes both bias-ply and radial fitments across many makes, confirming the exact size is the best place to start.
Tire Sizes & Fitment
What tire sizes were used on 1956 vehicles?
1956 vehicles used a very broad mix of tire sizes. Common examples include 155R15, 165R15, 185R15, 145R13, 670-15, 710-15, 760-15, 800-15, 820-15, 600-16, and 550-16, along with specialized sizes such as 165R400, 165-400, 125-400, and 8.00-17. Both radial and bias-ply constructions appear throughout the year.
That range reflects how diverse the 1956 market was. Smaller imports such as the 1956 Austin A 30 or 1956 Fiat 600 use very different fitments from large American cars such as the 1956 Cadillac 62 Series or 1956 Lincoln Premiere. There are also unusual metric-diameter wheel applications on Citroen, Lancia, and Peugeot models, so a correct year alone is never enough to identify the right tire.
Do all 1956 vehicles use the same tire size?
No, 1956 vehicles do not use the same tire size. The year includes everything from narrow small-car sizes like 135R12 and 145R13 to large luxury-car sizes such as 820-15, 890-15, and 8.00-17. Some models also appear with both a radial size and a bias-ply size, which adds another layer to correct fitment research.
A 1956 Volkswagen Beetle, 1956 Chevrolet Corvette, and 1956 Rolls Royce Phantom are all from the same year, but they sit in completely different size categories. Even within one make, fitment can vary sharply by model or series. That is why the most accurate shopping path is to match the exact year, make, model, and tire size before comparing brands or sidewall styles.
How do I find the right tire size for a 1956 vehicle?
Start by identifying the exact 1956 make and full model name, then match it to the tire size associated with that application. After that, confirm the size currently on the car, verify wheel diameter, and check whether the vehicle is using a bias-ply or radial fitment. This is especially important on 1956 vehicles that show more than one size or construction possibility.
Examples from the year make the point clearly. A 1956 Jaguar XK uses a different size family than a 1956 Jaguar Mark, and a 1956 Peugeot 203 can appear with more than one fitment format. On restored cars, replacement wheels, suspension changes, or brake conversions can also affect clearance, so confirming the actual vehicle configuration is a smart final step.
Makes & Models
Which vehicle makes are covered for 1956?
The 1956 guide covers a wide mix of American, British, European, and imported makes. Examples include Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, Chrysler, Ford, Dodge, Pontiac, Packard, Jaguar, MG, Triumph, Volkswagen, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Alfa Romeo, Citroen, Lancia, Volvo, Rolls Royce, Bentley, and many others.
That wide make coverage is important because 1956 tire fitment does not follow one simple pattern. American full-size cars often use larger 15-inch bias-ply sizes, while many European cars use smaller inch-based radials or millimetric 400-series sizes. Browsing by make is useful, but the final fitment decision still depends on the specific model and the exact tire size associated with it.
Which 1956 models are associated with these tire sizes?
The 1956 model list includes everything from compact cars and sports cars to luxury sedans and formal touring models. Examples include the 1956 Austin A 35, 1956 MG MGA, 1956 Porsche 356 A, 1956 Chevrolet Corvette, 1956 Ford Thunderbird, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300, 1956 Cadillac 75 Series, and 1956 Rolls Royce Silver Wraith.
Some tire sizes are shared across several models, while others are tied to a narrow set of applications. A size like 155R15 appears on many small European cars, while a size like 890-15 is far more specialized. That mix makes the page useful for moving from a tire size into the models that use it, then into product choices that suit that specific fitment.
Can different models from the same year use different tire sizes?
Yes, different models from the same year can use very different tire sizes, even within the same make. For 1956, that is common rather than unusual. A single make may span compact sedans, sports cars, and large luxury vehicles, each with its own wheel diameter, section width, and sometimes a different construction type.
Ford is a good example, ranging from small 13-inch applications on the 1956 Ford Anglia and 1956 Ford Prefect to larger 15-inch sizes on the 1956 Ford Fairlane and 1956 Ford Thunderbird. Mercedes-Benz is another, with multiple 13-inch fitments on smaller sedans and larger 15-inch applications on the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. Model-level confirmation is essential before selecting tires.
Tire Types & Construction
What types of tires are available for 1956 vehicles?
1956 vehicles are represented by both bias-ply and radial tires, depending on the application. Available products also vary by sidewall style and series, including Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall, Wide Whitewall, and even Redline choices in certain sizes. Brands represented across the year include Michelin, Firestone, BFGoodrich, Avon, Coker Classic, Vredestein, Pirelli, and others.
The right type depends on the actual tire size and vehicle. A large American car may be shopping among broad whitewall bias-ply products in sizes like 760-15 or 820-15, while a European sports car may be looking at Blackwall radials in 155R15, 165R15, or 185R16. The most useful approach is to match size first, then compare construction and styling within that size.
Are 1956 vehicle tires bias-ply or radial?
1956 vehicle tires can be either bias-ply or radial. This year includes many applications where both construction families are present across the model range, and some vehicles are associated with one radial size and one bias-ply size. That makes 1956 a transitional period rather than a year dominated by only one construction type.
For example, 1956 British and European models often appear with radial sizes such as 155R15, 165R15, or 185R16, while many American models use bias-ply sizes such as 670-15, 710-15, or 800-15. Some makes, including Austin, Jaguar, Rover, and Porsche, show both construction types across their listed fitments. The correct choice depends on the exact size and vehicle application being matched.
Why do tire sizes and construction types vary across 1956 vehicles?
Tire sizes and construction types vary across 1956 vehicles because the market included everything from tiny economy cars to large luxury sedans, and because tire technology was not standardized globally. Manufacturers from different countries followed different sizing practices, and radial adoption was more common in some European applications than in large American passenger cars.
That is why a 1956 Citroen may use a millimetric radial size, a 1956 Volkswagen may use a small 15-inch radial or bias-ply fitment, and a 1956 Cadillac may use a large 15-inch bias-ply whitewall size. Vehicle weight, wheel diameter, body style, and regional design practice all influenced tire fitment in 1956, so variety is expected rather than unusual.
Tire Options & Selection
What should I consider when choosing tires for a 1956 vehicle?
The first things to consider are the exact tire size, construction type, and wheel diameter associated with the 1956 vehicle. After that, compare the available product styles within that size, including Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall, Wide Whitewall, or other appearance treatments. On some sizes, published rim-width guidance and load capacity can also help narrow the best match.
Selection goals often differ by vehicle type. A 1956 Buick or Cadillac owner may care strongly about whitewall width and period presence, while a 1956 Porsche or Austin-Healey owner may focus more on the characteristics of a radial versus a bias-ply option. If the car has been modified, clearance and wheel compatibility should be checked before choosing purely by size name.
What tire brands are available for 1956 vehicles?
Available 1956 tire brands include Michelin, Firestone, BFGoodrich, Avon, Coker Classic, Vredestein, Pirelli, Excelsior, US Royal, Dunlop, American Classic, Premium Sport, Universal Vintage Tire, Lester, Deka, Garfield, and STA, depending on the tire size. Brand availability changes from one fitment to another, so not every brand appears in every application.
For example, some radial European sizes are heavily represented by Michelin, Vredestein, Pirelli, or Avon, while many larger American bias-ply sizes have choices from Firestone, BFGoodrich, Coker Classic, and US Royal. Smaller specialty sizes may have only one or two options. The most efficient way to shop is to identify the correct size first, then compare the brands offered for that specific fitment.
What sidewall styles are available for 1956 vehicle tires?
1956 vehicle tires are available in several sidewall styles, including Blackwall, Narrow Whitewall, Wide Whitewall, Narrow Whitewall radial options, and Redline in at least one radial application. Which styles are available depends entirely on the tire size. Some fitments offer several visual treatments, while others are limited to a single Blackwall product.
This matters because sidewall style strongly affects the look of a 1956 vehicle. Larger American cars often suit broad whitewall presentations in sizes like 710-15, 760-15, or 820-15, while many European radial sizes such as 155R15 and 165R14 are represented mainly as Blackwalls. Matching the visual character of the car is important, but the style should always be chosen within the correct size.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1956 vehicle?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1956 vehicle. Changes to wheels, brakes, suspension height, steering components, or body clearance can alter what fits safely and cleanly, even when the year and model are correct. This is especially important on cars that have been restored over many decades or updated for modern road use.
A vehicle originally associated with one of the year’s standard sizes may no longer have the original wheel width or offset. That matters on both small imports and large American cars. Before installing new tires, it is wise to confirm the actual wheel diameter, wheel width, and available clearance at the fender, steering, and suspension points rather than relying on year and model alone.
What should I check before installing tires on a 1956 vehicle?
Before installing tires on a 1956 vehicle, check the exact year, make, model, tire size, wheel diameter, and current wheel width. It is also smart to verify whether the car is intended to use a bias-ply or radial fitment and whether any previous owner made modifications that changed the original wheel or suspension setup.
On some 1956 applications, the size itself can be the main source of error, especially with millimetric 400-series fitments or closely related 15-inch sizes. Inspect the wheels for condition, confirm that the selected product matches the required rim diameter, and compare published rim-width guidance when available. That extra checking helps avoid ordering a tire that is right for the year but wrong for the actual vehicle.
How should tires on a 1956 vehicle be inspected and maintained?
Tires on a 1956 vehicle should be inspected regularly for tread wear, sidewall cracking, age-related deterioration, uneven wear patterns, and signs of impact or storage damage. Inflation should be checked consistently, and any tire that shows obvious structural aging or damage deserves closer evaluation before continued road use. Collector vehicles often spend long periods parked, which makes inspection especially important.
Maintenance also means watching how the tire is wearing on the actual car. Uneven wear can point to alignment, suspension, or wheel issues rather than a problem with the tire itself. On whitewall-equipped products, gentle cleaning helps preserve appearance. On any restored 1956 vehicle, keeping the wheels true, the suspension in good condition, and the tires properly inflated will support better fitment and longer service.