The Volvo 120 Series, commonly known as the Volvo Amazon, is one of Volvo’s most iconic classic models. Produced from the late 1950s to 1970, it features a classic rear-wheel-drive platform, 5x108 PCD, large centre bore, and very low offset wheels, which are significantly different from modern vehicles.
This guide covers all factory tyre sizes, rim specs, centre bore (CB), PCD, and torque specifications.
Volvo 120 (Amazon) Generation Overview
1. Volvo 120 Series (1956–1970)
Volvo 120 (Amazon) – Wheel & Tyre Specifications
Factory Tyre Sizes
- 155R15
- 165R15
- 165/80R15 (modern equivalent)
- 175/70R15 (common upgrade)
Rim Specifications
- 15x4J – 15x5J
- Offset (ET): ~ET10–20
Bolt Pattern (PCD)
- 5x108
Centre Bore (CB)
- 65.1 mm
Thread Size
- M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
- ~80–95 Nm
Key Fitment Notes (Important)
1. Early Classic Volvo Platform
The Volvo 120 uses:
- 5x108 PCD
- 65.1 mm centre bore
- Very low offset
→ Completely different from modern Volvo vehicles
2. Extremely Low Offset (CRITICAL)
- Typical: ET10–20
→ Wheels sit far outward
→ Incorrect offset can cause:
- Wheels sitting too far inward
- Steering/suspension interference
3. Centre Bore Compatibility
- 65.1 mm hub bore
→ Modern Volvo wheels (63.4 mm) will NOT fit directly
4. Narrow Tyre Design
Factory tyres are:
- Very narrow (155–165 width)
→ Designed for:
- Comfort
- Light steering feel
5. Low Torque Requirement
- ~80–95 Nm
→ Over-torquing can:
- Damage studs
- Warp brake components
Recommended Upgrade Fitments
Daily Driving
- 165/80R15
- 175/70R15
Performance Upgrade
- 185/65R15
- 195/60R15
Aggressive Fitment
- 195/55R16
- 205/50R16 (check clearance carefully)
Tyre Recommendations (Australia Market)
Classic / Comfort
- Continental UC6 / UC7
- Michelin XM2+
Modern Performance Upgrade
- Continental MaxContact MC7
- Michelin Pilot Sport 5
Classic Enthusiast Builds
- Yokohama Advan AD09
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4
Why Correct Fitment Matters
Incorrect fitment can lead to:
- Steering vibration (wrong centre bore)
- Handling issues (incorrect offset)
- Wheel loosening (incorrect torque)
- Uneven tyre wear
Using Wheel-Size–referenced specifications ensures:
- Safe installation
- Proper fitment
- Maximum tyre performance
Available at Autosport Tyre World
We supply and fit tyres for all Volvo 120 (Amazon) models at:
647 Magill Road, Magill SA 5072 0452641023
411 Grand Junction Road, Wingfield SA 5013 0433645411
911 South Road, Clarence Gardens SA 5039 0420299911
All vehicles are fitted with:
- Correct torque specifications
- Hub-centric alignment
- Professional balancing