Tire Size
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 39
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From: Out of Mind
Which size is standard?
Help trying to buy new tires for my 1979 T-top Vette. But I am getting asked which tire size, 225-70-15 or 255-60-15. How would I know which ones I should have? I do not have the tag, that shows me. The previous owner removed it. I need tires next weekend.
Thank you,
Keri-Lyn
Thank you,
Keri-Lyn
Last edited by Keris C3; Aug 10, 2008 at 08:44 PM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 2,545
Likes: 3
From: 406ci SB, AFR 180 Heads - 490 HP @5,600 RPM 529 lb-ft @ 4,100 RPM
245X60X15 work without any issues
255X60X15 some have issues with rubbing(should be ok on 79)
295X50X15 I use on our 79 without any issues.
255X60X15 some have issues with rubbing(should be ok on 79)
295X50X15 I use on our 79 without any issues.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 2,100
Likes: 12
From: Frederick Maryland
For a '79, the stock factory tire size is P225/70R15 and the only authorized optional size is P255/60R15. They will both fit fine. The difference is essentially the look you want.
In general, and I stress that...in general...the 70 series will likely give a better ride, easier steering and the 60 series will handle a bit better and require a bit more steering effort and ride a bit less smooth due to greater tread footprint and greater road feedback. That assumes both 70 and 60 series tires are equal in tread compound and in all other aspects other than profile and tread width. We also know that's not real world. All tires are different.
It still comes down to what you want. Compare tires and their treadwear and traction ratings, and compare that to cost and find the one that you feel best fulfills your needs.
In general, and I stress that...in general...the 70 series will likely give a better ride, easier steering and the 60 series will handle a bit better and require a bit more steering effort and ride a bit less smooth due to greater tread footprint and greater road feedback. That assumes both 70 and 60 series tires are equal in tread compound and in all other aspects other than profile and tread width. We also know that's not real world. All tires are different.
It still comes down to what you want. Compare tires and their treadwear and traction ratings, and compare that to cost and find the one that you feel best fulfills your needs.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 39
Likes: 0
From: Out of Mind
Thank you
Thank you. 
I wasn't sure what the difference was. 
My first Vette and you know with all other cars who really cares what the tires are. They don't seem to matter until they are going on a Corvette. Again thank you so much. I have found Corvette Forum to be the best place to go for information.
I wasn't sure what the difference was. My first Vette and you know with all other cars who really cares what the tires are. They don't seem to matter until they are going on a Corvette. Again thank you so much. I have found Corvette Forum to be the best place to go for information.
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,305
Likes: 2
From: Lewisburg WV
thegazman
I have a 79 that came from the factory with 255/60X15's with no issue. If I went any wider, to be safe I would change the parking brake cable guide from the outside to the inside of the trailing arm.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 39
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From: Out of Mind
Thank you!
I will probably move the parking cable too. Since I have to put rebuilt ones on. The whole rear end it getting rebuilt. Already rebuilt the front brakes. Thank you for the cable information.
Keri
Keri
