Best Whitewall Tires For Classic Cars: Bias and Radial Options

Best Whitewall Tires For Classic Cars

A strong classic-car whitewall tire delivers the sidewall style you want in the size and construction your vehicle requires. Coker Tire 55481 Coker Classic is a particularly relevant choice for restorations that call for a 14-inch bias-ply tire with a wide whitewall. This roundup also includes Firestone bias-ply tires, Coker Classic radials, and other passenger-car options in 14- and 15-inch sizes.

Their whitewall widths range from a 1-inch narrow stripe to a 3.25-inch band, so appearance varies considerably. Some listings are sets, while others describe a single tire; check what is included before ordering.

Use the tire size and rim diameter specified for your vehicle as the starting point, then compare construction and whitewall width. The motorcycle tire is identified separately because it is not a passenger-car fitment.

For a classic restoration that calls for a 14-inch bias-ply tire and a broad whitewall, Coker Tire 55481 Coker Classic leads this list. Its G78-14 size, 27.1-inch overall diameter, and 3.25-inch whitewall are concrete details that suit a period-style appearance. If your vehicle instead requires a 15-inch fitment, consider the Firestone 556660 Firestone Classic 560-15.

Buyers seeking radial construction can compare the Coker Classic Star Series listings, but must match the specific size and whitewall width to their car.

Our Top Picks

Coker Tire Coker Classic G78-14Best Overall

Coker Tire Coker Classic G78-14

This classic-focused 14-inch bias-ply tire lists a 3.25-inch whitewall and 27.1-inch overall diameter, making it a strong period-style restoration match.

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Firestone Classic 560-15Best Bias-Ply 15-Inch

Firestone Classic 560-15

Its 560-15 bias-ply size, genuine whitewall construction, and detailed classic tread and sidewall design suit restorations needing a 15-inch fitment.

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Coker Classic Star Series P195/75R14Best Radial 14-Inch

Coker Classic Star Series P195/75R14

This 14-inch radial has a clearly specified 2.25-inch wide whitewall and a 1,521-pound listed load capacity, pairing a classic look with radial construction.

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Compare these classic-car whitewall tire options

#ProductSizeRim SizeLoad CapacityBuy
1Stock14 in—View on Amazon
2
Firestone Classic 560-152. Firestone Classic 560-15Best Bias-Ply 15-Inch
560-1515 in—View on Amazon
3P195/75R14 98T14 in1521 lbView on Amazon
4P205/75R14 101T14 in1653 lbView on Amazon
5P235/75R15 109T15 in2271 lbView on Amazon
6
Gripmax MaxGrip Classic G/T6. Gripmax MaxGrip Classic G/T15-inch grand-touring classic style
225/75R1515 in—View on Amazon
7
Suretrac Power Touring 235-75R157. Suretrac Power Touring 235-75R15Four widewall touring radials
235-75r1515 in2039 lbView on Amazon
8
Mastertrack M-TRAC CW 195/75R148. Mastertrack M-TRAC CW 195/75R14Four-tire 14-inch whitewall set
195/75R1414 in1389 lbView on Amazon
9
Travelstar UN106 205/70R159. Travelstar UN106 205/70R15All-season 15-inch two-tire set
205/70R1515 in1499 lbView on Amazon
10
Dunlop American Elite MU85B1610. Dunlop American Elite MU85B16Harley-Davidson motorcycle rear tire
16 in16 in908 lbView on Amazon

Detailed Reviews: Best Whitewall Tires For Classic Cars

Coker Tire Coker Classic G78-14

#1 · Best Overall

1. Coker Tire Coker Classic G78-14

  • Size: Stock
  • Rim Size: 14 in

Best for: Widewall bias-ply restoration tire.

Why it ranks #1: This classic-focused 14-inch bias-ply tire lists a 3.25-inch whitewall and 27.1-inch overall diameter, making it a strong period-style restoration match.

A 3.25-inch whitewall gives the Coker Classic G78-14 its defining period look, making it a visual match for restorations, hot rods, and custom builds seeking a broad white sidewall. Its bias-ply construction and authentic tread pattern reinforce the classic appearance rather than presenting a modern radial profile.

The G78-14 size, listed at 27.1 inches overall diameter and for a 14-inch rim, gives buyers concrete dimensions to compare with their vehicle’s existing tire setup. Its 3.25-inch whitewall makes the sidewall a prominent styling feature, while the bias-ply design and authentic tread pattern support a vintage presentation. At 25.8 pounds per tire, handling and installation involve a substantial tire; the listing provides no additional mounting components, so plan around the tire itself.

Pros
  • 3.25-inch whitewall for a broad classic look
  • Bias-ply construction
  • Authentic tread pattern
  • G78-14 size for a 14-inch rim
Cons
  • Bias-ply construction may not suit buyers seeking a radial tire.

Skip it if you need radial construction; Coker Classic Star Series P195/75R14 98T is listed as a radial option.

This suits a classic-car owner prioritizing a broad whitewall and bias-ply appearance for a restoration, hot rod, or custom. Check the G78-14 size and 14-inch rim requirement against the vehicle before choosing.

Full product details
BrandCoker Tire
Included ComponentsPer Item Description
Item Dimensions27 x 5.5 x 27 inches
Item Weight25.8 pounds
Dimensions27 x 5.5 x 27 inches
ManufacturerCoker Tire
Part Number55481
Manufacturer Warranty Description30 Days
Model Number55481
Rim Size14 inches
SizeStock
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description140/80B14

Listed on Amazon as: Coker Tire 55481 Coker Classic 3 1/4 Inch Whitewall G78-14

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Firestone Classic 560-15

#2 · Best Bias-Ply 15-Inch

2. Firestone Classic 560-15

  • Size: 560-15
  • Rim Size: 15 in

Best for: Firestone 15-inch bias-ply whitewall.

Why it ranks #2: Its 560-15 bias-ply size, genuine whitewall construction, and detailed classic tread and sidewall design suit restorations needing a 15-inch fitment.

A genuine 2.75-inch whitewall and detailed Firestone sidewall give this 560-15 bias-ply tire a distinctly period-oriented appearance. Made in the USA using original molds and modern materials, it is aimed at restored classics, hot rods, and custom builds seeking an authentic tread and sidewall design.

The 560-15 size and 15-inch rim specification help identify the intended wheel format, while the bias-ply construction keeps the tire in the traditional category rather than the radial one. Firestone’s detailed tread and sidewall design complement the genuine 2.75-inch whitewall for a coordinated vintage presentation. The listing describes original molds with modern materials and U.S. manufacture, facts relevant to buyers prioritizing traditional construction and provenance when selecting a classic-car tire.

Pros
  • Genuine 2.75-inch whitewall
  • Bias-ply construction
  • Made in the USA using original molds and modern materials
  • Detailed Firestone tread and sidewall design
Cons
  • Bias-ply construction is not the choice for buyers specifically requiring radial tires.

Skip it if you require radial construction in a 15-inch classic tire; Coker Classic Star Series P235/75R15 109T is listed as a radial.

This Firestone is for owners fitting a 560-15, 15-inch rim and wanting a genuine whitewall with bias-ply character. Its traditional construction is the key boundary for buyers who require a radial instead.

Full product details
BrandFirestone
Item Weight19 pounds
Part Number556660
Model Number556660
Rim Size15 inches
Size560-15

Listed on Amazon as: Coker Tire 556660 Firestone 2.75 Inch Whitewall 560-15

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Coker Classic Star Series P195/75R14

#3 · Best Radial 14-Inch

3. Coker Classic Star Series P195/75R14

  • Size: P195/75R14 98T
  • Rim Size: 14 in
  • Load Capacity: 1521 lb

Best for: 14-inch radial with wider whitewall.

Why it ranks #3: This 14-inch radial has a clearly specified 2.25-inch wide whitewall and a 1,521-pound listed load capacity, pairing a classic look with radial construction.

A 2.25-inch whitewall sets this Coker Classic P195/75R14 apart from narrower-band options, while its radial construction gives classic-car buyers a period-inspired appearance in a clearly specified 14-inch size. The listed 1,521-pound load capacity at 32 PSI adds a concrete reference for checking the application.

The P195/75R14 98T size and 14-inch rim specification make this a defined option for vehicles that call for that format, rather than a generic classic-style tire. Its 2.25-inch whitewall provides a visibly broader accent than the 1-inch band on Coker Classic’s P205/75R14 101T. Radial construction distinguishes it from bias-ply choices, and the stated 1,521-pound capacity at 32 PSI helps inform load checks against vehicle requirements.

Pros
  • Radial passenger tire construction
  • 2.25-inch whitewall
  • P195/75R14 98T size
  • 1,521-pound listed capacity at 32 PSI
Cons
  • The 1,521-pound listed capacity is lower than the P205/75R14 Star Series tire’s 1,653 pounds.

Skip it if you require a higher listed load capacity in a 14-inch radial; Coker Classic Star Series P205/75R14 101T lists 1,653 pounds.

This is a fit to consider for a classic car requiring P195/75R14 98T radial tires and a 2.25-inch whitewall. Check the listed load capacity against the vehicle’s requirements before settling on this size.

Full product details
BrandCoker Classic
Included ComponentsTire
Load Capacity1521 pounds
ManufacturerCoker Tire
Part Number737108
Manufacturer Warranty Description1 year manufacturer
Model Number737108
Rim Size14 inches
SizeP195/75R14 98T
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size DescriptionP195/75R14 98T

Listed on Amazon as: Star Series Radial Passenger Tire: P195/75R14 98T, 2.25" Wide Whitewall, 8" section Width, 1521@32PSI Load Capacity

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Coker Classic Star Series P205/75R14

#4 · Narrow Whitewall

4. Coker Classic Star Series P205/75R14

  • Size: P205/75R14 101T
  • Rim Size: 14 in
  • Load Capacity: 1653 lb

Best for: 14-inch radial narrow-whitewall tire.

Why it ranks #4: The 14-inch radial offers a specified 1-inch narrow whitewall and 1,653-pound load capacity for buyers seeking a subtler stripe.

The 1-inch narrow whitewall gives this Coker Classic Star Series tire a restrained vintage accent, while its P205/75R14 101T radial format targets vehicles using 14-inch rims. A listed 1,653-pound capacity at 32 PSI supplies a specific reference for checking its suitability.

The P205/75R14 101T size designation and 14-inch rim specification help buyers compare the tire with their vehicle’s requirements. Its radial construction provides a clear alternative to the bias-ply options in this roundup, and the 1-inch whitewall keeps the sidewall treatment relatively subtle. The stated 1,653-pound load capacity at 32 PSI is useful when reviewing load needs. Compared with the P195/75R14 Star Series, this tire lists a higher capacity but a narrower whitewall.

Pros
  • Radial passenger tire construction
  • 1-inch narrow whitewall
  • P205/75R14 101T size
  • 1,653-pound listed capacity at 32 PSI
Cons
  • Its 1-inch whitewall is narrower than the P195/75R14 Star Series tire’s 2.25-inch band.

Skip it if you want a broader whitewall in a 14-inch radial; Coker Classic Star Series P195/75R14 98T lists a 2.25-inch band.

This suits a classic-car owner who wants a subtle whitewall and a P205/75R14 radial with a stated 1,653-pound capacity. Confirm the vehicle calls for this size and that the 1-inch band matches your styling preference.

Full product details
BrandCoker Classic
Included ComponentsTire
Load Capacity1653 pounds
ManufacturerCoker Tire
Part Number738103
Manufacturer Warranty Description1 year manufacturer
Model Number738103
Rim Size14 inches
SizeP205/75R14 101T
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size DescriptionP205/75R14 101T

Listed on Amazon as: Star Series Radial Passenger Tire: P205/75R14 101T, 1" Narrow Whitewall, 8.3" Secition Width, 1653@32PSI Load Capacity

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Coker Classic Star Series P235/75R15

#5 · Best Radial 15-Inch

5. Coker Classic Star Series P235/75R15

  • Size: P235/75R15 109T
  • Rim Size: 15 in
  • Load Capacity: 2271 lb

Best for: 15-inch radial narrow-whitewall option.

Why it ranks #5: Its P235/75R15 radial size and 1.6-inch narrow whitewall suit a 15-inch application, with a listed load capacity of 2,271 pounds.

Radial construction in P235/75R15 109T pairs a 1.6-inch narrow whitewall with a 15-inch rim size, giving classic-car owners a restrained sidewall accent in a specific larger passenger-tire format. Its listed 2,271-pound load capacity at 32 PSI helps buyers evaluate the tire against their vehicle’s requirements.

The P235/75R15 109T designation identifies the tire’s size and speed/load marking, while the 15-inch rim specification helps narrow compatibility checks. Its 1.6-inch narrow whitewall offers a less expansive white band than widewall designs, which can suit a more understated classic appearance. Coker Classic lists radial construction, a practical distinction for buyers selecting between radial and bias-ply styles. The 2,271-pound capacity at 32 PSI is a stated reference for load planning, not a substitute for vehicle specifications.

Pros
  • Radial passenger tire construction
  • 1.6-inch narrow whitewall
  • P235/75R15 109T size designation
  • 2,271-pound listed capacity at 32 PSI
Cons
  • Its 15-inch rim size rules it out for vehicles requiring 14-inch rims.

Skip it if you need a 14-inch radial with a wider whitewall; Coker Classic Star Series P195/75R14 98T lists a 2.25-inch whitewall.

Choose this Coker Classic for a vehicle requiring the P235/75R15 109T format and a modest 1.6-inch whitewall. Its 15-inch rim requirement and listed load capacity should align with the vehicle’s specifications.

Full product details
BrandCoker Classic
Included ComponentsTire
Load Capacity2271 pounds
ManufacturerCoker Tire
Part Number738110
Manufacturer Warranty Description1 year manufacturer
Model Number738110
Rim Size15 inches
SizeP235/75R15 109T
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size DescriptionP235/75R15 109T

Listed on Amazon as: Star Series Radial Passenger Tire: P235/75R15 109T, 1.6" Narrow Whitewall, 9.25" Section Width, 2271@32PSI Load Capacity

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Gripmax MaxGrip Classic G/T

#6

6. Gripmax MaxGrip Classic G/T

  • Size: 225/75R15
  • Rim Size: 15 in

Best for: 15-inch grand-touring classic style.

Why it ranks #6: This 225/75R15 tire is described as a grand touring radial for classic vehicles, with a retro-styled 35mm white sidewall.

A 35mm retro white sidewall gives the Gripmax MaxGrip Classic G/T a defined vintage accent in the 225/75R15 size. Its grand-touring positioning emphasizes comfort, stability, and refined road manners, making it relevant to classic-car owners seeking a whitewall tire with a road-focused character.

The 225/75R15 size and 15-inch rim specification help buyers identify the wheel format this tire serves. Gripmax describes its tread pattern as supporting smooth handling and consistent road contact, connecting the design to predictable braking and composed driving. The 35mm white sidewall supplies a measured retro detail rather than an especially broad band. At 33.6 pounds, the listed tire weight is also relevant when handling and fitting the tire; the package includes the tire only.

Pros
  • 35mm retro white sidewall
  • 225/75R15 size for a 15-inch rim
  • Grand-touring positioning for comfort and stability
  • Tread pattern described for consistent road contact
Cons
  • The listing specifies a tire only, not a wheel or rim.

Skip it if you need a set of four whitewall tires together; Suretrac Power Touring 235/75R15 is listed as a set of four.

This suits a classic-car driver seeking a 225/75R15 grand-touring tire with a 35mm white sidewall and road-focused handling. It is sold as a tire only, so wheel and quantity planning remain separate.

Full product details
BrandGRIPMAX
Included ComponentsTire only
Item Dimensions27 x 27 x 8 inches
Item Weight33.6 pounds
ManufacturerGripmax
Part NumberGGT013
Model NumberGGT013
Rim Size15 inches
Size225/75R15
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description225/75R15

Listed on Amazon as: Gripmax MaxGrip Classic G/T 225/75R15 102H Tire

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Suretrac Power Touring 235-75R15

#7

7. Suretrac Power Touring 235-75R15

  • Size: 235-75r15
  • Rim Size: 15 in
  • Load Capacity: 2039 lb

Best for: Four widewall touring radials.

Why it ranks #7: The listed set includes four 235/75R15 tires with 1.5-inch whitewalls, steel belts, and an all-season tread compound for a complete 15-inch changeover.

A set of four 235/75R15 tires with 1.5-inch whitewalls gives the Suretrac Power Touring a clear appeal for owners refreshing a classic car’s full set. Its solid centerline rib, steel belts, and all-season tread features add practical details beyond the wide sidewall styling.

The four-tire quantity lets buyers plan a complete replacement in the listed 235/75R15 size, while the 15-inch rim specification identifies the wheel diameter. A 1.5-inch whitewall delivers a visible classic accent. The solid centerline rib and high-tensile steel belts are specified construction details, and the all-season tread compound with grooves is intended to support varied-condition use. The listing gives a 2,039-pound load capacity; note that whitewalls are excluded from the stated limited defect warranty.

Pros
  • Set of four tires
  • 1.5-inch wide whitewall
  • Solid centerline rib and high-tensile steel belts
  • All-season tread compound and tread grooves
Cons
  • The stated limited defect warranty does not cover the whitewalls.

Skip it if you need a two-tire purchase rather than four; Travelstar UN106 205/70R15 is listed as a set of two.

This suits a classic-car owner seeking four 235/75R15 tires with a prominent 1.5-inch whitewall and touring tread features. The whitewalls are not covered by the listed limited defect warranty.

Full product details
BrandGENERIC
Load Capacity2039 pounds
Part Number372006
Rim Size15 inches
Size235-75r15
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description235-75R15

Listed on Amazon as: set of 4 new 235-75r15 suretrac wide white walls 1.5" classic touring

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Mastertrack M-TRAC CW 195/75R14

#8

8. Mastertrack M-TRAC CW 195/75R14

  • Size: 195/75R14
  • Rim Size: 14 in
  • Load Capacity: 1389 lb

Best for: Four-tire 14-inch whitewall set.

Why it ranks #8: This set of four 14-inch tires has an 18mm classic whitewall and a listed 1,389-pound load capacity, though construction details are limited.

A set of four 195/75R14 tires makes the Mastertrack M-TRAC CW a ready-to-shop option for buyers refreshing all four positions in one size. Its 18mm classic whitewall adds a restrained accent, while the 14-inch rim specification identifies its intended wheel diameter.

Ordering four matching tires can simplify planning a complete replacement, since the listing identifies the product as a set rather than a single tire. The 195/75R14 size and 14-inch rim specification provide the key dimensions for checking the vehicle’s requirements. An 18mm whitewall gives the sidewall a relatively narrow classic detail, useful for buyers who prefer less white than wider-wall designs. The listed load capacity is 1,389 pounds per tire, an important figure to compare with application needs.

Pros
  • Set includes four tires
  • 195/75R14 size
  • 18mm classic whitewall
  • 1,389-pound listed load capacity per tire
Cons
  • The listed 1,389-pound capacity per tire may not meet higher-load requirements.

Skip it if you need a whitewall wider than 18mm; Coker Classic Star Series P195/75R14 98T lists a 2.25-inch whitewall.

Consider this set if you need four 195/75R14 tires with a subtle 18mm whitewall for a classic-car refresh. Verify that the listed 1,389-pound capacity per tire suits the vehicle’s load requirements.

Full product details
BrandMastertrack
Included ComponentsTire
Load Capacity1389 pounds
ManufacturerMastertrack
Part NumberMASTWW003-A4B
Manufacturer Warranty Description3 Year Road Hazard Warranty
Model NumberMASTWW003-A4B
Rim Size14 inches
Size195/75R14

Listed on Amazon as: Set of 4 Mastertrack M-TRAC CW 195/75R14 18mm Classic White Wall Tires

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Travelstar UN106 205/70R15

#9

9. Travelstar UN106 205/70R15

  • Size: 205/70R15
  • Rim Size: 15 in
  • Load Capacity: 1499 lb

Best for: All-season 15-inch two-tire set.

Why it ranks #9: The listing specifies a set of two radial passenger tires in 205/70R15, with an 18mm whitewall and all-season tread details.

Four circumferential grooves and an M+S-rated tread distinguish the Travelstar UN106 set, connecting its 18mm whitewall styling to wet-road evacuation and varied-weather use. The package contains two 205/70R15 radial passenger tires, making it a defined option for classic-car owners buying in pairs.

The two-tire quantity supports replacing a pair, while the 205/70R15 size and 15-inch rim specification give buyers the dimensions needed for a fit check. An 18mm whitewall supplies a narrow classic accent without dominating the sidewall. Travelstar says four circumferential grooves optimize water evacuation for wet-road grip and stability, and the M+S-rated tread is listed for varied weather conditions. Each tire has a stated 1,499-pound load capacity; wheels are not included.

Pros
  • Set of two radial passenger tires
  • 18mm whitewall
  • Four grooves specified for water evacuation
  • M+S-rated tread for varied weather conditions
Cons
  • The set includes two tires, not four.

Skip it if you need all four tires in one purchase; Suretrac Power Touring 235/75R15 is listed as a set of four.

Choose this pair if your classic requires 205/70R15 radial tires with a subtle whitewall and you value the listed all-season tread features. The set contains two tires, and wheels are not included.

Full product details
BrandTRAVELSTAR
Included Componentstires
Item Dimensions26.2 x 8.11 x 26.2 inches
Item Weight50 pounds
Load Capacity1499 pounds
ManufacturerTRAVELSTAR
Part NumberLL-PCR009
Manufacturer Warranty Description3 Year Road Hazard Warranty
Model NumberLL-PCR009
Rim Size15 inches
Size205/70R15
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description205/70R15

Listed on Amazon as: Set of 2 (TWO) Travelstar UN106 205/70R15 18mm White Wall Tire

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Dunlop American Elite MU85B16

#10

10. Dunlop American Elite MU85B16

  • Size: 16 in
  • Rim Size: 16 in
  • Load Capacity: 908 lb

Best for: Harley-Davidson motorcycle rear tire.

Why it ranks #10: This whitewall tire is designed for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and select other motorcycles, not classic passenger cars, so it does not match the search use case.

MT Multi-Tread rear-tire technology is the defining feature of Dunlop’s American Elite, with the manufacturer linking it to handling and high mileage on Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Its wide whitewall sidewall option adds a classic visual touch, but this is a motorcycle tire, not a classic-car application.

Dunlop positions the American Elite for Harley-Davidson models, with listed compatibility also including select Victory and Indian motorcycles; that application is central to choosing it. The MT Multi-Tread rear compound uses a long-wearing compound to support mileage, while the wide-whitewall option brings the requested vintage sidewall look to a motorcycle. Its 16-inch size and 908-pound listed capacity are additional fit and load details to assess for the intended motorcycle.

Pros
  • MT Multi-Tread rear-tire technology
  • Wide whitewall sidewall option
  • Listed for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and select Victory and Indian models
  • 908-pound listed load capacity
Cons
  • This is a motorcycle rear tire, not a passenger-car tire.

Skip it if you are shopping for a classic car; Coker Tire 556660 Firestone 560-15 is a classic-car bias-ply tire.

This fits a motorcycle owner seeking a wide-whitewall rear tire for a listed Harley-Davidson, or select Victory or Indian application. It does not serve classic cars, and its 16-inch size requires motorcycle-specific fit checking.

Full product details
BrandDUNLOP
Item Dimensions25 x 25 x 6 inches
Item Weight21.1 pounds
Load Capacity908 pounds
ManufacturerDunlop
Part Number45131529
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Warranty
Model Number45131529
Rim Size16 inches
Size16 inches
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description250/70M16
Additional InformationImportant Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Listed on Amazon as: Dunlop American Elite Whitewall Rear Tire (Wide Whitewall / MU85B16)

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Avoid a classic-tire fitment mismatch

The most important fitment trap is assuming that a matching rim diameter guarantees a suitable replacement. These listings show why the full tire size matters: options include G78-14, P195/75R14, 205/70R15, and 235/75R15, which are not interchangeable merely because some share a 14- or 15-inch rim. The Coker G78-14 listing also gives a 27.1-inch overall diameter, while the Travelstar 205/70R15 lists 26.2 inches; those figures illustrate how dimensions differ across fitments.

Check the size required for your vehicle, including its approved tire specifications, before choosing a whitewall width or style. Confirm that the listing is for a passenger-car tire and verify whether it describes one tire or a set.

In particular, the Dunlop American Elite is a motorcycle tire, despite its whitewall appearance, and does not belong on a classic passenger car.

Whitewall width changes the restoration look

Whitewall width has a major visual effect, so match the stripe to the look your vehicle requires rather than treating all whitewalls as equivalent. The Coker Tire Coker Classic G78-14 lists a 3.25-inch whitewall, while the Coker Classic Star Series P195/75R14 has a 2.25-inch band. Other listed choices use narrower treatments: the Coker Classic Star Series P235/75R15 specifies 1.6 inches, and the P205/75R14 specifies 1 inch.

The Mastertrack and Travelstar options list 18mm whitewalls, and Gripmax describes a 35mm white sidewall. These measurements are not a guarantee of visual appearance once mounted, but they give useful points of comparison.

Check the exact listing and any vehicle-specific reference photos before buying, especially when replacing only two tires or trying to match existing sidewalls.

How to Choose Classic-Car Whitewall Tires

Match the tire size and rim

Start by matching the tire size required for your car, not just the rim diameter. This selection includes 14-inch options such as G78-14, P195/75R14, and P205/75R14, plus 15-inch choices including 205/70R15, 225/75R15, and 235/75R15. Even sizes with the same rim measurement can differ in overall dimensions and fitment.

The Coker G78-14 listing gives a 27.1-inch overall diameter; Travelstar lists 26.2 inches for its 205/70R15. Confirm the correct specification for your vehicle before ordering.

A buyer restoring a car that requires G78-14 should focus on that exact size, while a vehicle specified for a particular radial size should consider a matching radial listing instead.

Choose bias-ply or radial construction

Look for the construction type that suits your vehicle and intended use, and verify that the listing actually identifies it. Coker Tire Coker Classic G78-14 is explicitly bias-ply, as is the Firestone Classic 560-15; several Coker Star Series and the Travelstar UN106 listings identify radial tires. The Gripmax description also calls it a grand touring tire, but its supplied specifications do not identify construction, so do not assume details that are not listed.

A buyer seeking a period-style bias-ply replacement can compare the Coker and Firestone options, provided the size matches. Someone whose car requires a radial can focus on the specified radial choices, then narrow the selection by size, load capacity, and whitewall width.

Select the whitewall width

Choose a whitewall width that matches the appearance you want and, ideally, the tire you are replacing. Listed widths span from the 1-inch narrow stripe on the Coker Classic Star Series P205/75R14 to the 3.25-inch band on the Coker Tire Coker Classic G78-Other options specify 1.6 inches, 2.25 inches, 1.5 inches, 18mm, or 35mm, so this selection covers both narrow and broad looks.

Compare measurements using the same units and check the exact product listing; the descriptions do not all use the same terminology. A buyer aiming for a pronounced vintage whitewall can start with the wider specified options, while someone seeking a restrained stripe can consider the 1-inch or 18mm choices.

Which Whitewall Tire Fits Your Classic Car?

For a 14-inch restoration that calls for a wide whitewall and bias-ply construction, choose Coker Tire Coker Classic G78-14: it specifies a 3.25-inch whitewall and a 27.1-inch overall diameter. If your classic needs a 15-inch bias-ply tire, consider Firestone Classic 560-For 14-inch radial fitments, compare Coker Classic Star Series P195/75R14 for its 2.25-inch band or Coker Classic Star Series P205/75R14 for a narrower 1-inch stripe.

A 15-inch radial buyer can check Coker Classic Star Series P235/75R15 or Gripmax MaxGrip Classic G/T, matching the exact required size first. For a four-tire 15-inch set, Suretrac Power Touring 235-75R15 is listed as a set of four.

Avoid the Dunlop American Elite MU85B16 for a car: it is a motorcycle tire.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I confirm a whitewall tire will fit my classic car and wheel?

Confirm the required tire size, wheel diameter, load rating, and any clearance requirements in your vehicle documentation or with a qualified tire professional. Then compare those requirements with the tire listing, including its construction and whitewall width. Do not assume that matching the wheel diameter alone guarantees fitment; the complete size must suit the car.

Should I choose bias-ply or radial tires for a classic car I drive regularly?

Choose construction based on the car’s requirements and how closely you want to preserve its period-style setup. Bias-ply options suit restorations calling for that construction, while the Coker Classic Star Series listings provide radial choices. Confirm the correct size and whitewall width before deciding; the listings alone do not establish which construction is right for every car.

How do I keep whitewalls clean without damaging the sidewall?

Use a cleaner intended for tire sidewalls and follow its directions; avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive pads, and aggressive scrubbing that could damage the rubber. Test an unfamiliar product on a small area first, rinse away residue, and clean regularly so dirt does not build up. Follow the tire maker’s care guidance when available.

How wide should the whitewall be on a classic-car tire?

Choose a whitewall width that matches the car’s intended appearance and your restoration goals, while confirming that the tire itself fits. The listed options vary: the Coker Classic G78-14 has a 3.25-inch whitewall, while Star Series radial listings include 2.25-inch and 1-inch bands. Check the exact listing before ordering.

Should I buy tires individually or as a set?

Buy the quantity your vehicle needs and verify that each tire has the required size and construction. The listings include options described as sets of two or four, as well as individual tires. Do not assume a set listing matches your car; compare its exact tire size with the vehicle’s requirements first.

Final Words

Start with your car’s required size, wheel diameter, and construction, then choose the whitewall width that suits the restoration. For a 14-inch bias-ply setup with a broad whitewall, the Coker Classic G78-14 is the lead choice; a 15-inch bias-ply buyer can consider the Firestone Classic 560-Radial shoppers should compare the specific Star Series sizes and bands.

Avoid the Dunlop listing for a car: it is a motorcycle tire.

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