Classic Charm: Whitewall Tires from Performance Plus Tire

Posted May-15-25 at 1:42 PM By PerformancePlusTire

Classic Car Wheels from Performance Plus Tire – Style Meets Performance

Classic Elegance Meets Modern Performance: Whitewall Tires from Performance Plus Tire

For over 40 years, Performance Plus Tire has been the go-to destination for automotive enthusiasts seeking to enhance their vehicles with timeless style and reliable performance. Among our most sought-after offerings are our distinctive whitewall tires, which combine vintage aesthetics with modern engineering to deliver both the classic look and reliable performance discerning drivers demand.

The Timeless Appeal of Whitewall Tires

Whitewall tires aren't just rubber meeting the road—they're rolling pieces of automotive history. Dating back to the early 20th century, these distinctive tires feature a white sidewall band that creates an elegant contrast against the black rubber. Originally found on luxury vehicles, whitewalls quickly became symbols of sophistication and style.

Today, these iconic tires are essential for authentic restorations, classic car showcases, or adding a touch of vintage flair to modern vehicles. At Performance Plus Tire, we understand the importance of getting every detail right when it comes to your prized automobile.

Our Premium Whitewall Tire Collection

Performance Plus Tire proudly offers an extensive range of whitewall tires to suit various classic and vintage vehicles. Our collection includes respected brands that car enthusiasts have trusted for generations:

Featured Brands:

  • Kontio WhitePaw Classic: As the exclusive U.S. distributor, we offer these Finnish-engineered whitewall tires that combine authentic vintage styling with modern radial tire technology. Available in sizes ranging from 185/80R13 to 235/75R15, these tires feature genuine white rubber compounds that resist fading or discoloring.
  • BFGoodrich: From narrow to wide whitewalls, BFGoodrich offers options in multiple sizes with widths ranging from 1" to 3.75" to match your vehicle's original specifications.
  • Firestone: Experience authentic reproductions of classic Firestone designs, including popular options with 2.375" to 3.25" whitewall widths in various sizes.
  • U.S. Royal: Known for their period-correct styling, these tires feature precise 1" whitewalls that perfectly complement many classic American automobiles.
  • Coker Classic: The world's first wide whitewall radial tire, offering modern performance with authentic vintage styling.

Other quality brands in our inventory include Autobahn, Cushman, Deka, Diamond, Dunlop, Durandal, Excelsior, Garfield, Garland, Goodyear Classic, Indian, Pirelli Vintage, ProTrac, Speedway, and Universal.

Finding Your Perfect Fit

Whether you're restoring a 1920s antique, a 1950s classic, or adding vintage style to a custom hot rod, our team of experts is here to help you find the exact whitewall tire your project requires. We consider:

  • Period Correctness: We'll help match your vehicle with historically accurate whitewall width and tire design.
  • Construction Options: Choose between traditional bias-ply tires for complete authenticity or bias-look radials that offer modern handling with vintage aesthetics.
  • Size Considerations: From 13-inch to 20-inch rim diameters, and various aspect ratios, we can accommodate virtually any classic car application.

Why Choose Performance Plus Tire for Your Whitewall Needs

With warehouses in Long Beach, California, and Oak Ridge, Tennessee, we're equipped to serve customers nationwide with prompt delivery and exceptional service. Our "locally world famous" business has built its reputation on:

  • Unmatched Selection: Over 10,000 tires and 5,000 custom wheels in stock
  • Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable staff with deep expertise in vintage applications
  • Quality Assurance: Only premium brands that meet our strict standards
  • Convenience: Options for both nationwide shipping and local installation
  • Customer-First Philosophy: "If we don't take care of the customer, someone else will"

Key Takeaways

  • Whitewall tires combine vintage aesthetics with modern engineering capabilities
  • Performance Plus Tire offers a comprehensive selection from leading manufacturers
  • Options range from authentic bias-ply designs to modern radials with classic styling
  • Expert guidance ensures you get the perfect tire for your specific vehicle
  • Nationwide distribution from two strategic warehouse locations
  • 40+ years of trusted service to automotive enthusiasts

Frequently Asked Questions

What are whitewall tires?

Whitewall tires feature a white band on the sidewall that contrasts with the black rubber of the tire. This distinctive styling element was popular from the early 1900s through the 1970s, particularly on luxury and premium vehicles.

Are whitewall tires only available for classic cars?

While primarily associated with vintage and classic vehicles, whitewall tires are available in select modern sizes. Our experts can help determine if whitewalls are available for your specific application.

What's the difference between bias-ply and radial whitewall tires?

Bias-ply tires have crisscrossed fabric layers and provide the most authentic vintage look and ride characteristics. Radial tires have fabric layers running straight across the tire with additional stabilizing layers, offering better handling, wear, and fuel economy. For a compromise, bias-look radials provide modern performance with vintage aesthetics.

How do I maintain the white sidewalls on my tires?

Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is recommended. Avoid harsh chemicals or petroleum-based cleaners that may discolor the white rubber. For stubborn stains, use cleaners specifically designed for whitewall tires.

Do whitewall tires require tubes?

Some vintage bias-ply whitewall tires do require tubes, while most modern radial whitewalls are tubeless. Our product descriptions clearly indicate which tires require tubes.

What whitewall width should I choose?

The appropriate whitewall width depends on your vehicle's era and original specifications. Generally, pre-war cars often used wide whitewalls (3"+), 1950s models typically featured medium whitewalls (2-3"), and 1960s-70s vehicles usually had narrow whitewalls (1" or less).

Can I install whitewall tires on my daily driver?

Absolutely! While maintaining the white sidewalls requires some additional care, many enthusiasts enjoy the distinctive style whitewalls bring to their everyday vehicles.

Visit Performance Plus Tire today to explore our complete collection of whitewall tires and find the perfect match for your classic, vintage, or custom vehicle!

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