MGB Tyres

An MGB on the wrong tyres never quite feels settled, and most owners know it within the first mile. MGB tyres have a greater influence on steering feel, ride quality and overall balance than many upgrades costing considerably more, which is why understanding the original specification remains the best starting point before ordering replacements.

When the MGB left Abingdon in 1962, it wore crossply 5.60x14 tyres as standard. By the mid-1960s, the factory moved to radials, fitting the direct radial equivalent of 165R14, also written as 165/80R14. That remains the period-correct MGB tyre size for both the roadster and the MGB GT, which joined the range in 1965 with Pininfarina bodywork. Both body styles shared the same wheel and tyre dimensions throughout production. The 185/70R14 became a recognised alternative during the later years of production, offering a slightly wider contact patch while maintaining virtually the same rolling diameter as the 165R14. That keeps gearing and speedometer readings consistent while providing a modest increase in grip. Move beyond 185mm on standard 4.5J rims, however, and rear arch clearance can become an issue. Chrome bumper cars are particularly sensitive because the tyre sits higher within the wheel arch, while rubber bumper cars from 1975 onwards generally provide slightly more room.

Wheel condition matters as much as tyre size on a car of this age. Our MGB Road Wheels section covers pressed steel disc wheels, Rostyle replacements and MWS wire wheels in the original 4.5J x 14 specification, alongside alloy upgrade kits in both 14-inch and 15-inch sizes. Owners considering a move to 15-inch wheels should verify brake calliper clearance before ordering. The standard 14-inch wheel clears the front calliper with little room to spare, and some aftermarket rims contact the calliper casting without modification.

The suspension carrying those tyres deserves equal attention. Worn kingpin assemblies, tired lever arm dampers and deteriorated wishbone bushes all affect camber and castor settings, and uneven tread wear across the contact patch is usually a symptom of geometry issues rather than tyre quality. A full inspection of the MGB Front Suspension and MGB Rear Suspension before fitting new rubber often prevents a second tyre replacement further down the line. Owners looking to sharpen handling at the same time should consider the MGB Performance Parts range, which includes uprated anti-roll bars, polyurethane bushes and adjustable damper conversions that noticeably alter how the car behaves on the road.

Brakes should receive the same scrutiny during any tyre change. Sticking rear drums and dragging front callipers generate heat that accelerates tyre wear and affects vehicle balance. Our MGB Brakes range covers pads, discs, drums, callipers and hydraulic components for every model from early single-circuit cars through to the final rubber bumper variants.

We've supplied MGB owners throughout the UK and internationally since 1982. Whether you're preserving an early chrome bumper roadster on factory-spec tyres or refining a later GT around 185/70R14 rubber, our team can help confirm the correct fitment for your car. Browse our full MGB Parts range or call 01522 568000 for model-specific advice.