The MGB 1800 was originally fitted with a Dunlop Gold Seal nylon tubed crossply in size 5.60-14, available in normal or whitewall versions. In 1965 the standard crossply changed to Dunlop C41, with whitewall versions now having a narrow white band rather than the earlier wide band.
From February 1971 the crossply became the Dunlop D75, and the SP.41 radial was offered from 1965, giving way to the SP68 by April 1969. The V8 in 1973 became the first MGB to be fitted with tubeless tyres in 175HR-14.
On rubber bumper cars, tyre size became 165SR-14 on both Roadsters and GTs. The radial equivalent today is 165/80R14, a size becoming increasingly difficult to source through general tyre retailers. Two tyre options are available in the correct 165/80R14 specification. The Vredestein Sprint Classic is a premium heritage tyre designed specifically for classic cars, combining period-correct appearance with modern radial construction and compound technology for improved wet and dry grip over a genuine crossply.
The Barum Bravuris 5HM provides an alternative in the same size. For owners fitting wider aftermarket wheels, alternative tyre sizes may be more appropriate, correct sizing affects speedometer accuracy, handling geometry, and wheel arch clearance.