What size tires are on a 1959 Edsel?
Most 1959 Edsels used 14-inch wheels with bias-ply tires; common original-equipment sizes were in the 7.50-14 to 8.00-14 range, depending on trim and options.
These sizes varied by model, body style, and production run. This article explains the typical sizes you’re likely to encounter, how they differed by Edsel model, and how to confirm the exact specification for a specific car—whether you’re restoring one or maintaining an original survivor.
Common tire sizes seen on 1959 Edsel models
The following sizes were commonly fitted to 1959 Edsel passenger cars with 14-inch wheels. Exact size could differ by trim and production batch, so always verify against documentation for your particular vehicle.
- 7.50-14
- 8.00-14
- 6.50-14 (less common on some base configurations)
Note: These sizes reflect the era's standard bias-ply tire offerings and 14-inch wheel sizing. If you’re restoring, use this list as a starting point and confirm with the vehicle’s build sheet, door placard, or owner's manual.
Notes on model-by-model variation
Edsel offered multiple trims and body styles in 1959, and tire sizing could shift with equipment, wheel options, or load requirements. While 7.50-14 and 8.00-14 were the typical targets, some cars fell into the narrower 6.50-14 category due to specific configurations or production batches.
How to verify the correct tire size on your 1959 Edsel today
To ensure you mount the correct tires for a 1959 Edsel, use the steps below to verify from the car itself and its documentation.
- Check the door jamb placard for the recommended tire size and inflation pressure.
- Inspect the current tires’ sidewalls for size markings (for example, 7.50-14 or 8.00-14).
- Consult the owner's manual or a factory service bulletin for your exact model/year.
- Measure the wheel diameter to confirm the wheels are 14 inches in diameter and verify wheel width compatibility with the tire width.
- If there are aftermarket wheels, ensure the tire size chosen maintains proper clearance and speedometer accuracy.
Following these steps will help you select the correct original-equipment or safe modern-equivalent tires and preserve ride quality and accurate speed readings.
Modern tire considerations for a 1959 Edsel
Although bias-ply tires on 14-inch wheels were original, many restorations today use modern radial tires in equivalent overall diameter to improve handling and durability. When replacing, aim to preserve the original overall diameter to maintain speedometer accuracy and clearance. Always verify that the chosen radial size corresponds to the same rolling diameter as the original 7.50-14 or 8.00-14 tires.
If you’re unsure, seek guidance from vintage-vehicle tire specialists or Edsel registries, who can help match historical specifications with safe, modern replacements.
Summary
In short, a 1959 Edsel most commonly ran 14-inch wheels with tires in the 7.50-14 to 8.00-14 range, though some configurations used 6.50-14. For restoration or replacement, verify the exact size via the door placard, owner's manual, or build sheet, and consider the overall diameter when choosing modern replacements to maintain handling and speedometer accuracy.
