Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Classic Morgans (pre-CX) Plus 4 16 inch tyres

On my 1953 plus 4, I currently have Avon HM Tourist crossply tyres marked as follows:

145/95- 16 replaces
5.00/5.25-16. 76P

4 PLY RATING
TUBE TYPE

which is slightly confusing me.



According to the Blockley web site:

The Morgan Plus 4 tyre size between 1950 and 1962 was 5.25x16. From 1962 onward the factory fitted 5.60x15 using a 4" wide wheel rim (as they had fitted to the Plus4 Super Sports) which is radial equivalent 155R15 tyre size.  Shortly after, the tyre size was increased by the factory to 5.90x15 with a wider 4 1/2 inch wheel rim, which is equivalent 165R15 radial size, a size that was quoted in period as the radial Plus4 option. Blockley produces both the 155HR15 and 165VR15 tyre sizes which are a period correct, steel belt construction with high speed rating and perfect for all the Morgan Plus 4’s.

I have 16 x 5 inch steel wheels, (my car is pre-1962). I want to replace the tyres (now 8 years old) with a radial type. I don’t want to have to find a set of 15 inch wheels, so I’m stuck with the relatively small range of 16 inch tyres available. e.g.

Blockley 185VR16 £235
Vredestein Sprint Classic 185R16 £234

The Blockleys are 27.4 inch dia which is about right for the speedo.

Bottom line: does anyone have recommendations for a radial tyre on 16 inch/ 5 inch rims for a 1950s plus 4 ? I don't rally or race so ultimate performance is hardly an issue - good, safe performance is though.