What size tires are on a 1988 Corvette?
The typical factory setup for most 1988 Corvettes used 255/60R16 front tires and 275/60R16 rear tires on 16-inch wheels. A very small number of cars equipped with the older 15-inch wheel option used 255/60R15 front and 275/60R15 rear. Always verify your specific car by checking the tire sidewall or the door jamb sticker.
Tire configurations by wheel size
The following outlines the factory configurations most commonly found on 1988 Corvettes, depending on whether the car used the standard 16-inch wheels or the rare 15-inch option.
- 16-inch wheel package (common): Front tires 255/60R16; rear tires 275/60R16; wheels are 16x8 front and 16x9 rear.
- 15-inch wheel package (rare): Front tires 255/60R15; rear tires 275/60R15; wheels are 15x7 front and 15x8 rear (approximate dimensions reported by some configurations).
In practice, most 1988 Corvettes you’ll encounter will have the 16-inch configuration, with the 15-inch option being a rare factory choice or dealership modification.
How to verify the exact size on your car
To confirm the precise OE tire size on your specific Corvette, use these quick checks:
- Inspect the tire sidewall for the size code (e.g., 255/60R16 or 275/60R16).
- Check the driver’s side door jamb sticker, which lists the original equipment tire sizes for your car.
If you’re shopping for replacements, it’s also wise to consider the load index and speed rating to match the car’s performance characteristics and handling expectations.
Additional notes and considerations
tire sizes can vary slightly by market, model year within the same generation, and any dealer-installed options. When in doubt, verify with the vehicle’s VIN-specific build sheet or a GM service bulletin from the era.
Summary
For most 1988 Corvettes, the stock configuration was 255/60R16 front and 275/60R16 rear tires on 16x8/16x9 wheels. A rare 15-inch wheel option existed with 255/60R15 front and 275/60R15 rear. Always confirm by checking the tire sidewall and the OEM door sticker to ensure accuracy for your particular car.
What size tires came on a 1988 Corvette?
New standard 16” x 8 ½” cast-aluminum wheels with p255/50ZR-16 tires, and new optional 17” x 9 ½” cast-aluminum wheels with P275/40ZR-17 tires (included with Z52 Performance Handling Package).
What is the value of a 1988 Corvette now?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $10,700 for a 1988 Chevrolet Corvette in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1988 Chevrolet Corvette at auction over the last three years was $530,000.
What size tires are on a 1988 Chevy R30?
Shop Tires for 1988 Chevrolet R30 Silverado | 235/85R16 | Goodyear Auto Service.
Was 1988 a good year for Corvettes?
A 1988 Corvette is a good car for its strong performance, improved handling, and classic style, but it can have issues with sensitive steering, potential transmission problems, and age-related electronic or rubber component wear. Its reliable V8 engine provides impressive power, and it was designed to be a fun and capable performer, but being a nearly 40-year-old vehicle, its condition will vary greatly.
Pros
- Performance: The 5.7L V8 engine delivers strong acceleration, and the car has good power-to-weight for its era.
- Handling: The suspension was improved for the 1988 model year, and the car is described as responsive, with a stable and glued-to-the-ground feel, especially with the optional performance packages.
- Braking: It features independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes with an anti-lock braking system (ABS).
- Design: The C4 generation is a popular and stylish design, and the convertible option provides an exhilarating open-air experience.
Cons
- Steering: The steering can be overly sensitive and prone to kickback, especially on uneven roads, requiring constant driver attention.
- Electronics: As with any older car, electronics like the digital gauge cluster and the HVAC system can be points of failure.
- Transmission: While the engine is generally reliable, the automatic transmission may be prone to issues, especially at higher mileage, say Reddit users.
- Maintenance: Like any aging vehicle, it will likely require maintenance for rubber seals, hoses, and other age-related components.
Is it a good car for you?
- A 1988 Corvette is a good choice if: You are buying it as a weekend or project car to enjoy its performance and style, and you are prepared for potential age-related maintenance and the need for more constant driver input.
- It may not be a good choice if: You need a reliable daily driver with low maintenance requirements or are on a very tight budget for repairs, as finding and maintaining a good one can be challenging.
