Automotive Carpet Replacement Materials FAQs

Your Guide to Loop, Cutpile, and Essex Carpet Options

 What are the different types of automotive carpet available?

There are four main types of carpet material used in automotive carpet replacement:

• Loop Carpet – Found in classic cars from the 1950s to early 1970s.

• Cutpile Carpet – Common in most vehicles from 1974 to the present.

• Essex Carpet – A luxury upgrade, denser and plusher than standard cutpile.

• Vinyl as a carpet replacement – Rubber like material designed to replace old carpet or worn rubber flooring with a durable, weather-resistant alternative.

Each carpet type is molded or cut-and-sewn to fit the floor contours of your vehicle during auto carpet installation.

What do loop, cutpile, Essex, and vinyl carpets look like?

Carpet Type	Image	Description
Loop		Twisted fibers that "loop" back into the backing, ideal for vintage classic vehicles
Cutpile		Smooth fibers all cut same length, OEM look for modern vehicles, with best matching color options
Essex		Thick, plush luxury feel, generic color options
Vinyl		Durable, weather-resistant carpet alternative

What is Loop Carpet and why is it used in vintage cars?

Loop carpet features tightly woven loops of yarn. It was originally used in classic American vehicles from the 1950s to the early 1970s.

Key Features:

• Authentic to vintage car interiors (Period-Correct for 1950-Early 1970 vehicles)

• Durable and rugged

• Textured, Berber-style appearance

Best for: Restorations of classic Mustangs, Camaros, and Corvettes.

Common Variants of Loop:

• Tuxedo Loop: Features a two-tone "salt and pepper" appearance.

• Daytona Loop: A very tight weave used in early 1950s vehicles.

What is Cutpile Carpet and why is it the most common today?

Cutpile carpet is the standard for modern vehicles (1970s–present). The yarn loops are cut for a smooth, velvet-like finish.

Key Features:

• Softer than loop

• Hides seams and contours well

• OEM-style appearance in newer modern cars

Best for: Daily drivers, modern restorations (updated interior from classic/vintage to modern), or OEM replacement carpet kits.

 What makes Essex Carpet different from regular cutpile?

Essex carpet is a premium cutpile carpet made from high-density nylon for a more luxurious feel.

Key Features:

• Over 40% thicker than standard cutpile

• Ultra-soft with a high-end appearance

• Ideal for luxury builds or comfort upgrades

Best for: High-end restorations, modern hot rods, or customers seeking maximum interior comfort.

 Who would use Vinyl as a carpet replacement. 

Vinyl material is a popular alternative to traditional carpet in a variety of vehicles where durability, ease of cleaning, and resistance to moisture and debris are prioritized over comfort or luxury.

Key Features:

• Durable & Easy-to-clean

Best for: Work trucks, fleet vehicles, farm trucks, off road & trail vehicles, rock crawlers, taxis, police vehicles, RVs, church vans, rideshare, & shuttle buses