Ford - Ford Zodiac
The Ford Zodiac was the Ford top of the range "luxury" model, over the equivalent range of Zephyr. The first Zephyr Zodiac model appeared in 1953, 3 years after the equivalent Zephyr, subsequently known as the Zodiac Mk1. To differentiate the Zodiac and justify the higher price tag, the Zodiac came with 2 tone paintwork, a more powerful engine, spotlights and even whitewall tyres. The Zodiac Mk2 (1956 to 1962) was again made different with front grille and different rear end but kept all the extra features and two tone paintwork. The Zodiac Mk3 (1962 to 1966) came only with the six cylinder engine but, appointments and upholustery aside, the bodywork differed considerably and was distinguishable easily by having 4 headlights. The Ford Zodiac Mk4 (and even higher appointed Ford Executive) were built from 1966 to 1972 and fitted with the Ford 2994cc V6 engine.
The tyre sizes for the various Ford Zodiac types (1953 to 1972) is:
- Ford Zodiac Mk1, Mk2 and Mk3 made between 1953 and 1966 originally had the 6.40x13 tyre size, which is radial equivalent Blockley 165HR13. For anyone wanting a non standard wider (but same diameter) tyre, the size to use is the 185/70R13, and Blockley makes the perfect 185/70VR13 tyre.
- The later Ford Zodiac Mk.4 (built from 1966 to 1972) had larger 14" wheels and tyre size from the factory as standatd was the radial ply 185SR14, and Blockley makes the perfect period correct high speed rated steel belt construction 185HR14 tyre size. We also make this 185HR14 tyre with an alternative Whitewall version for those wanting this.
- So in conclusion the two tyre sizes that cover all the Ford Zodiac models are covered by the 165HR13 and 185HR14 sizes - see full details of these tyres below. Just to confuse matters we have been asked in the past for tyres for a Mk1 to Mk3 type Zodiac that had been fitted with incorrect 14" wheels, and in this instance, for these earlier Zodiacs, if this has happened and you wanted tyres for them, you would want to fit the 165HR14 size tyre - so we list this incorrect tyre below also for interest only!
