Austin Healey 3000 questions, who would I ask?

The car in question has been in the care of one owner for 25 plus years.  This is not my first British car, and I am well aware of the  possible pitfalls of this purchase.

I will be adding pictures soon.  When the motor was rebuilt it was painted an incorrect color,  I am aware of that.  My first question has to do with the tires.  They are 165/80 15, they look new and where installed 18 years ago,  I will be replacing them and will not be driving the car until that happens.  

What size will work on the wire rims?  I am not likely to go to the 70 series tires based on the limited ground clearance.  Will the 185/80 15 work on the stock wire rims?

Thank you in advance.  David

The easy button on the big Healey is the Michelin XAS | 180HR15, they add some ground clearance like you're concerned about, and they fit all of the factory wheels.

Here is a good place to ask about all things Healey, 

https://www.ahexp.com/forum/the-3000-forum.3/

Thank you, both.

You say that you are not going to drive it on the 165 series tires. My suggestion is that you do go for a short drive on them just so you can experience the steering feel as the car was designed.  The car is going to feel very light and lively through the steering wheel. There might not be a ton of traction to be had, but it feels right.

Going to wider and stickier tires makes a noticeable change to that steering feel. Does not seem to take much to give a lead-like feel to the steering.

This will make you smile, the current owner insisted that I spend some time with him driving in the car around his home.  It was an interview.  I passed.  I was the first person that other than himself that has driven the car during his ownership.  He had never been a passenger.  Yes I will be staying with the current 165 size.

Now a conversation with Tire Rack.