When you shop for replacement carpet you'll see two main styles: loop and cutpile. They look and feel very different, and if you're restoring a car to original, picking the wrong one is a dead giveaway. Here's how to tell them apart and which one your car needs.
What Is Loop Carpet?
Loop carpet (often called 80/20 loop) has yarn that's looped back into the backing instead of cut. It has a tight, textured, almost woven look. Most American cars and trucks from the 1950s through the early 1970s came with loop carpet from the factory. It's durable, hides dirt well and is the correct look for most early muscle cars.
What Is Cutpile Carpet?
Cutpile carpet has the tops of the yarn loops cut off, leaving a soft, plush surface like the carpet in your house. Automakers moved to cutpile in the 1970s and it became standard through the 80s, 90s and beyond. It feels more upscale and is the right choice for most cars built after about 1973.
Which One Is Correct for My Car?
- Mid-50s to early 70s: Usually loop. Think 1964-1972 Chevelle, first-generation Camaro, classic Mustang, early Nova.
- Mid-70s and newer: Usually cutpile. Think 1974 and up Chevelle, second-generation Camaro later years, 80s G-bodies and trucks.
- Transition years: Some models offered both depending on trim. When in doubt, look under the seats or under the rear package tray where the original carpet hasn't faded.
Does It Matter for a Driver or Restomod?
If you're not chasing points at a show, pick what you like. A lot of restomod builders put cutpile in older cars for a softer, more modern feel. Loop is tougher in high-traffic spots and easier to clean, which makes it popular for trucks.
Match Your Color
Both styles come in dozens of factory colors. Grab a sample from under a seat or the trunk and match it in daylight. Faded carpet near the windows is usually lighter than the original color.
Browse every style and color in our replacement carpet sets, and don't forget sound deadener to go under it.
