What is the bolt pattern on a 1964 Thunderbird?
The bolt pattern is five lugs on a 4.5-inch bolt circle (5x114.3 mm).
For restoration and wheel replacement, this standard Ford pattern from the era matters. The 1964 Thunderbird—part of Ford's fourth generation—uses the same general wheel mount pattern as other full-size Fords of the early 1960s, facilitating a wide range of compatible aftermarket and OEM wheels, provided hub bore, brake clearance, and offset are correct.
Pattern details at a glance
Here are the core facts that matter when selecting wheels for a 1964 Thunderbird:
- Five lug studs
- Bolt circle diameter: 4.5 inches (114.3 mm)
These factors determine compatibility with most classic Ford wheels marketed for the 1960s and with many modern wheels that support a 5x4.5 pattern.
What to check when buying wheels
Beyond the bolt circle, verify these practical aspects to ensure a proper fit and safe operation:
- Center bore must accommodate or be matched with hub-centric rings to avoid vibrations
- Brake caliper and rotor clearance for wider or different-design wheels
- Offset and width within the car’s original tolerances to prevent rubbing
With those checks, owners and restorers can select wheels confidently, whether preserving period-correct styling or upgrading for performance and stance.
Summary
In short, the 1964 Ford Thunderbird uses a 5x4.5 inch bolt pattern, common across many Ford vehicles of the era. When shopping for wheels or performing upgrades, confirm the bolt circle (5x114.3 mm), center bore fit, and adequate clearance to maintain correct alignment, braking performance, and body clearance.
What size tires are on a 1964 Ford Thunderbird?
1964–1966 Ford T-Bird 4th Generation Tyres
The 1964 model fitted 7.10 x 15 tyres, the 1965 model fitted 8.15 x 15 tyres, and the 1966 model fitted 8.25 x 15 tyres. 205 R15 Tyres are an equivalent radial size that applies to all the sizes above, and fits the 4th generation Thunderbird nicely.
What is a 64 Thunderbird worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $13,000 for a 1964 Ford Thunderbird in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1964 Ford Thunderbird at auction over the last three years was $126,500.
What cars have a 5x120 65 lug pattern?
Wheels with a 5x120.65 bolt pattern are most commonly associated with older Chevrolet and Pontiac cars, including certain years of the Corvette, Camaro, Chevelle, and Regal. While this pattern is similar to the 5x120 metric bolt pattern used by many European and newer Asian vehicles, a direct swap is not recommended due to the slight difference in lug spacing.
Cars that use the 5x120.65 bolt pattern
- Chevrolet: C5 Corvette (1997-2004), Camaro, Chevelle, and some Regal models
- Pontiac: Some Regal models
- Other Vintage Models: Various older cars and trucks may have this bolt pattern
Why you should be careful
- Slightly different bolt spacing: The 5x120.65 pattern is a slight variation from the common 5x120 metric pattern used by brands like BMW and some Honda models.
- Incorrect fitment: Using 5x120 wheels on a 5x120.65 hub (or vice versa) can lead to improper seating of the wheel, stress on the wheel studs, and potential safety issues.
- Forcing a fit: Using adapters or wobble nuts to fit a 5x120 wheel on a 5x120.65 hub is possible, but it can be risky and is generally not the recommended approach for long-term use.
- Hub-centric fitment: Even if the bolt pattern fits, the hub bore (the center hole of the wheel) must also be the correct size to ensure the wheel is properly centered and doesn't rely solely on the lug nuts for alignment.
What's special about the 1964 Thunderbird?
1964 Thundebird Hardtop. Here is the essence of a classic...the look that lasts long after the others fade. Here, too, is motion that is almost magic. Factors: 300-horsepower Thunderbird 390 V-8 engine, Cruise-O-Matic Drive, power steering and brakes.
