1959 Vintage Ramble American with Whitewall tires
In the 1960’s if you drove a car with black wall tires, you were a low life. Sleek, muscle cars came with lots of glitz and chrome and absolutely with whitewall tires. But no more.
Whitewall tires first came in vogue in the 1920’s and by the mid-30’s were commonly offered mostly on luxury brands. As tire sizes grew in the 50’s and 60’s, the demand for flashy whitewalls increased. In fact, having whitewall tires were a “must” to get the right look on a car. For those who could not afford the real deal, whitewall decal add-ons could be installed over the rim of the wheel.
The huge disadvantage of whitewall tires was maintenance. It only took one brush with a curbside to send black streaks across the shiny whitewalls. Much scrubbing and elbow grease ensued.
Starting in the mid 70’s, tire sizes were reduced, making is less desirable for broad strips of white and whitewall tires went the way of passenger pigeons and dinosaurs.
Yet, for a few years, whitewall tires on a sweet ride and a car with a big engine was a cause for great pride.
