Bottom Line Up Front
If you love the classic look of white‑letter sidewalls on a muscle car, good news: you can still buy new tires with white letters, but the options are limited and often come from specialty manufacturers.
Can You Still Buy Tires With White Letters? A Quick Guide
Image: Can You Still Buy Tires With White Letters? A Quick Guide – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
White lettering on a tire was a hallmark of 1960s and 70s American performance cars. The white stripe was originally a manufacturing quirk, but it became a styling statement. Today, the visual appeal remains strong among collectors and hot‑rod enthusiasts.
Most modern tire makers no longer produce white‑letter sidewalls as a standard option. However, a handful of niche brands still offer them:
- BF Goodrich – Their White Letter line mimics the original look for classic Mustangs and Camaros.
- Goodyear – Occasionally releases limited‑run white‑letter versions for heritage models.
- American Tire – A boutique shop that custom‑paints white lettering on any tire you buy.
These tires usually come in traditional sizes (e.g., 205/70R15) that fit vintage coupes. The white paint is applied after the tread is molded, so the letters stay crisp for years if you keep them clean.
Performance & Mileage
White‑letter tires aren’t a performance upgrade; they’re purely cosmetic. Their tread compounds are the same as the standard version of the same model. That means you get the same grip, handling, and mileage ratings you’d expect from the base tire.
Because the white paint adds a thin layer to the sidewall, there’s a tiny increase in weight—usually less than 0.1 lb per tire—so the impact on fuel economy is negligible. Expect mileage numbers identical to the non‑white version, typically 40,000–60,000 miles depending on driving style.
Price & Rivals
Buying a tire with white letters costs a bit more than its standard counterpart. The premium covers the extra painting process and lower production volume. Prices range from $90 to $130 per tire, versus $70–$110 for the regular version.
If you can’t find a factory‑made white‑letter tire, there are two work‑arounds:
- DIY Paint Kits – Some specialty shops sell white‑letter kits you can apply yourself, but the finish may not be as durable.
- Custom Sidewall Decals – Vinyl decals that mimic the look; they’re cheap but can peel over time.
When comparing rivals, consider the overall tire performance first. A high‑quality tire with a plain sidewall will outperform a cheap white‑letter tire in wet grip and wear.
Quick Specs of Popular White‑Letter Tires
| Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| BF Goodrich White Letter | 45,000 mi | $115 | Classic sidewall, same tread as Goodrich Assurance |
| Goodyear Heritage White | 50,000 mi | $125 | Limited‑run, high‑speed rating |
| American Tire Custom | 40,000 mi | $130 | Hand‑painted, bespoke sizing |
FAQ
Can I fit white‑letter tires on any classic car?
Yes, as long as the tire size matches the wheel specifications of the car. Check the vehicle’s manual for recommended sizes.
Do white‑letter tires affect handling?
No. The paint is only on the sidewall and does not change the tread pattern or rubber composition.
Are white‑letter tires worth the extra cost?
If the historic look is important to you, the modest price premium is usually justified. For pure performance, stick with the regular version.
What’s Next?
Take a look at your garage or your favorite classic‑car forum. If you spot a pair of white‑letter tires, you’ve found a piece of automotive history that still rolls. Have you tried one? Drop a comment below and share your experience.
Source: Read Official News
