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British Classic Cars: Iconic Makes & Models That Shaped the Road
The UK has a proud motoring history, and nowhere is that legacy more alive than right here in the West Midlands—from Halesowen, and beyond. Whether you’re restoring a timeless treasure or love spotting them at local car shows, classic British cars have a charm that modern vehicles can’t match.
In this post, we take a nostalgic look at the most iconic classic car makes and models from the UK, plus a few tyre tips to keep them rolling in style.
The British Classics You’ll Still See (and Hear) on Our Roads
Austin
A name steeped in Midlands history.
- Famous models: Austin Seven, Austin-Healey 3000, Austin Mini
- Tyre tip: Many early models used cross-ply tyres, but radials are now more popular for their safety benefits.
Morris
From daily drivers to symbols of post-war Britain.
- Famous models: Morris Minor, Morris Oxford
- Did you know? The Minor is still a common sight at classic meets in Dudley and Halesowen.
MG (Morris Garages)
Sporty, affordable, and unmistakably British.
- Famous models: MG B, MG Midget, MG TC
- Tyre tip: The MGB often runs best on 165/80 R14 classic radial tyres.
Triumph
Sleek roadsters are perfect for summer drives through the Black Country.
- Famous models: Triumph Spitfire, TR6, Stag
- Pro tip: Look for period-correct tyres from brands like Avon or Vredestein for show value.
Jaguar
Luxury and performance that still turn heads.
- Famous models: E-Type, Mark 2, XK120
- Local connection: Jaguar’s roots trace back to Coventry—just a short drive from here.
Rover
Understated elegance from the post-war era.
- Famous models: P5, P6, SD1
- Tyre care: Keep an eye on tyre age—many Rovers are now well over 40 years old and need fresh rubber.
Mini
Small car, considerable legacy.
- Famous models: Mini Cooper, Clubman, Traveller
- Tyre note: Tyres for classic Minis are usually 145R10, 145/70r12, 165/70r10, 165/60R12
Ford (UK)
Built in Dagenham but beloved across the Midlands.
- Famous models: Cortina, Escort Mk1/Mk2, Capri
- Still racing? Many Ford classics are restored for retro rally events and need motorsport-legal tyres.
Keeping Classic Cars on the Road: Tyre Matters
Whether you’re cruising to a show in Kingswinford or polishing up your pride and joy in Kidderminster, the right tyres matter for safety, style, and authenticity.
Here’s what to remember:
- Crossply vs Radial: Stick with crossply for originality, switch to radial for safety and comfort.
- Tyre Brands to Trust: Vredestein, Avon, Blockley, Michelin Classic, and Dunlop.
Where to Buy Locally? LTC Tyres has classic car garages in Halesowen, we also offer a mobile tyre fitting service at your home or garage.
Understanding Classic Tyre Sizes
- 1. Crossply (Bias Ply) Format Older cars originally used sizes like: 5.20-13 → 5.20 inches wide, 13” rim. These tyres have taller sidewalls and a softer ride, but less grip.
- 2. Radial Format Modern replacements use metric sizing: 145/80 R10 - 145 mm wide / 80% profile / 10-inch rim
- Switching to radials improves handling, braking, and tyre availability.
Tips for Sizing & Fitting Classic Tyres
- Stick to the original sizing if restoring for shows or keeping the piece period-correct.
- Go radial for regular road use, especially if you want modern handling without compromising style.
- Check inner arch clearance if you’re fitting wider tyres.
- Match pairs/axles – Avoid mixing radial and crossply tyres on the same car
Popular Classic Car Tyre Sizes
Austin Mini (1959 - 2000)
- 5.20-10 or 145-10 crossply
- 145/80 R10 or 165/70 R10
Morris Minor
- 5.20-14 crossply
- 145 R14 or 155/80 R14
MG MGB
- 165 R14
- 175/70 R14 (upgrade)
MG Midget
- 5.20-13 or 145 R13
- 155/80 R13
Triumph Spitfire
- 145 R13
- 155/80 R13
Triumph Stag
- 175 R14
- 185/70 R14
Jaguar E-Type (Series 1)
- 185 VR15
- 185/80 R15
Jaguar Mark 2
- 6.40-15 crossply
- 185 R15
Rover P6 2000/2200
- 165 R14
- 175/70 R14
Ford Cortina Mk1/Mk2
- 5.20-13
- 155/80 R13
Ford Capri Mk1
- 165 R13
- 175/70 R13
Classic car repairs, tyres and exhausts :
LTC Tyres & Exhausts Halesowen
Centre Court, Vine Ln, Halesowen B63 3EB
Tel: 0121 550 6084
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LTC Tyres and Exhausts services: Tyre fitting, Alloy Wheels, Exhausts, Mobile Fitting, Brakes, Batteries, Puncture Repairs, Vehicle Servicing, Wheel Repairs, Wheel Alignment, Air-Con Recharges, TPMS, Locking Wheel Nut Removal and much more.
