The Volvo P1800 is one of Volvo’s most iconic sports coupes, produced from the early 1960s to early 1970s. Known for its timeless design and reliability, it uses a classic rear-wheel-drive platform with 5x108 PCD, large centre bore, and very low offset wheels.
This guide covers all factory tyre sizes, rim specs, centre bore (CB), PCD, and torque specifications.
Volvo P1800 Generation Overview
1. Volvo P1800 (1961–1973)
(P1800, P1800S, P1800E, P1800ES)
Volvo P1800 (1961–1973) – Wheel & Tyre Specifications
Factory Tyre Sizes
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165R15
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165/80R15 (modern equivalent)
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175/70R15 (common upgrade)
Rim Specifications
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15x4.5J – 15x5.5J
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Offset (ET): ~ET15–20
Bolt Pattern (PCD)
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5x108
Centre Bore (CB)
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65.1 mm
Thread Size
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M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
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~85–100 Nm
Key Fitment Notes (Important)
1. Classic Sports Volvo Platform
The P1800 uses:
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5x108 PCD
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65.1 mm centre bore
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Very low offset
→ Completely different from modern Volvo fitment
2. Very Low Offset (CRITICAL)
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Typical: ET15–20
→ Wheels sit further outward
→ Incorrect offset can cause:
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Wheels sitting too far inward
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Suspension and steering interference
3. Centre Bore Compatibility
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65.1 mm hub bore
→ Modern Volvo wheels (63.4 mm) do NOT fit directly
4. Narrow Tyre Design (Classic Handling)
Factory tyres:
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165 width
→ Designed for:
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Lightweight handling
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Classic driving feel
5. Torque Requirements
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~85–100 Nm
→ Over-torque can:
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Damage studs
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Affect brake performance
Recommended Upgrade Fitments
Daily Driving
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165/80R15
-
175/70R15
Performance Setup
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185/65R15
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195/60R15
Aggressive Fitment
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195/55R16
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205/50R16 (check clearance carefully)
Tyre Recommendations (Australia Market)
Classic / Comfort
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Continental UC6 / UC7
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Michelin XM2+
Modern Performance Upgrade
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Continental MaxContact MC7
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Michelin Pilot Sport 5
Enthusiast / Classic Builds
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Yokohama Advan AD09
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Michelin Pilot Sport 4
Why Correct Fitment Matters
Incorrect fitment can lead to:
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Steering vibration (wrong centre bore)
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Handling issues (incorrect offset)
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Wheel loosening (incorrect torque)
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Uneven tyre wear
Using Wheel-Size–referenced specifications ensures:
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Safe installation
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Proper fitment
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Maximum tyre performance
Available at Autosport Tyre World
We supply and fit tyres for all Volvo P1800 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:
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Correct torque specifications
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Hub-centric alignment
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Professional balancing