Coker Tire: Authentic Vintage & Classic Car Tires for Pre-1980 Vehicles
Historical Accuracy Meets Modern Safety Standards for Collectors and Restorers
Founded in 1958 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Coker Tire is the world’s leading supplier of vintage and classic car tires. Specializing in meticulously reproduced tires for pre-1980 vehicles, Coker combines historical accuracy with modern safety standards. From Model Ts to 1970s muscle cars, their products cater to collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts seeking period-correct designs.
For true classic car enthusiasts, authenticity isn’t optional—Coker Tire’s reproductions mirror original tread patterns down to the millimeter, ensuring your restoration stays period-perfect.
Coker partners with iconic brands like Firestone and BFGoodrich to recreate legendary tread patterns while using advanced rubber compounds for improved durability. Beyond tires, they offer wheels, accessories, and expert guidance for maintaining classic vehicles.
Key Facts
- Full Company Name: The Coker Group, LLC
- Founded: 1958 (Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA)
- Headquarters: Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
- Website: cokertire.com
- Global Presence: Ships to 50+ countries (USA, Europe, Australia, Japan)
- Parent Company: Independent
- Product Categories:
- Vintage passenger tires
- Muscle car tires
- Antique truck tires
- Motorcycle tires
- Hot rod/racing tires
- Popular Sub-Brands/Series:
- Firestone Deluxe Champion (bias-ply)
- BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial
- Excelsior Stahl Sport
- Michelin X (vintage radial)
- Blockley Tires (UK classics)
- Sustainability Initiatives:
- Recyclable packaging.
- Long-lasting compounds to reduce waste.
Product Range
Coker Tire: Complete Vintage & Classic Tire Catalog
| Model Name | Category | Available Sizes | Tread Pattern | Warranty | Product URL |
| Firestone Deluxe Champion | Vintage Bias-Ply | 4.50″–8.00″ | Diamond Tread | 5-year limited | View |
| BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial | Classic Radial | 14″–20″ | Retro Radial | 5-year limited | View |
| Excelsior Stahl Sport | European Classic | 15″–18″ | Sport Rib | 5-year limited | View |
| Michelin X Radial | Vintage Radial | 13″–15″ | X-Type Tread | 5-year limited | View |
| Blockley Vintage Tire | UK Classics | 16″–19″ | Period-Correct Tread | 5-year limited | View |
| Coker Classic Wide Whitewall | Hot Rod/Show Car | 14″–17″ | Smooth Rib | 5-year limited | View |
| STA Super Traxion | Antique Truck | 6.00″–9.00″ | All-Terrain Lug | 5-year limited | View |
| Avon Speedmaster MKII | Vintage Motorcycle | 3.00″–4.50″ | Ribbed Front/Knobby Rear | 5-year limited | View |
| Firestone Indy 500 | Muscle Car | 14″–17″ | Wide Oval | 5-year limited | View |
Disclaimer:
Sizes and warranties vary by model. Confirm compatibility with your vehicle.
Why Choose Coker?
- Authentic Reproductions: Faithful recreations of Firestone, BFGoodrich, and Michelin classics.
- Modern Safety: Vintage aesthetics with radial construction for better handling.
- Expert Support: Free technical advice for restorations and custom builds.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched authenticity for classic car restorations.
- Radial options combine vintage looks with modern performance.
- Global shipping for rare sizes.
Cons:
- Premium pricing (2–3x budget brands).
- Limited availability for ultra-niche sizes.
- Bias-ply tires require tubes and frequent balancing.
How to Care for Vintage Tires
Radial technology transforms vintage aesthetics into modern performance: Coker’s tires blend retro designs with enhanced grip, durability, and wet-weather safety.
- Keep tires inflated to 25–35 PSI (check manufacturer specs).
- Store in climate-controlled areas away from UV light.
- Use tire dressings with UV inhibitors.
- Rotate tires every 3,000 miles for bias-ply models.
- Avoid harsh chemicals (use mild soap and water).
- Inspect for dry rot or cracks every 6 months.
- Use inner tubes for non-radial tires.
- Limit highway speeds for pre-1960s bias-ply tires.
- Balance tires during installation.
- Replace tires every 10 years, regardless of tread depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do Coker tires fit modern cars?
A: Most are designed for classics, but some radials (e.g., BFGoodrich Silvertown) fit newer retro-styled vehicles.
Q: Are Coker tires DOT-approved?
A: Yes, all meet U.S. Department of Transportation standards.
Q: Can I use Coker tires for daily driving?
A: Radials are suitable; bias-ply tires are best for shows/short trips.
Q: Do they make tires for Model T Fords?
A: Yes! Sizes like 30×3.5″ are available.
Q: What’s the lead time for rare sizes?
A: 2–8 weeks, depending on customization.
Q: Are whitewall tires scratch-resistant?
A: Coker uses advanced coatings, but avoid curbs.
Q: Do vintage radials need tubes?
A: No—only bias-ply tires require tubes.
Q: How do I clean whitewall tires?
A: Use a soft brush and non-bleach cleaner.
Q: Are Coker tires safe in rain?
A: Radials perform well; bias-ply tires have limited wet traction.
Q: Can I return tires if they don’t fit?
A: Returns accepted if unused and in original packaging.
Q: Do they ship internationally?
A: Yes, via FedEx/DHL (custom fees may apply).
Q: What’s the oldest tire they reproduce?
A: Pre-1900s horse carriage tires.
Q: Are there speed ratings for vintage tires?
A: Most radials are rated for 112+ MPH.
Q: Can I customize sidewall logos?
A: Yes, for bulk orders (minimum 50 units).
Q: Do they sell motorcycle tires?
A: Yes—Avon, Firestone, and universal fitments.
