914 Alloy Wheel, 5-1/2 Wide, Black & Polished, 4 on 130mm

OVERVIEW

Elevate your air-cooled Volkswagen''s aesthetic with the timeless performance styling of the EMPI 914 Alloy Wheel. Originally inspired by the iconic Porsche 914, this 5-1/2 inch wide wheel brings a sophisticated, Euro-performance look to your late-model Beetle, Karmann Ghia, or Type 3. The striking contrast between the deep gloss black recessed windows and the precision-machined polished spokes and outer lip creates a visual depth that stock steel wheels simply cannot match. Whether you are aiming for a period-correct restoration or a custom Cal-Look build, these wheels provide the perfect balance of vintage racing heritage and modern manufacturing precision, ensuring your ride stands out at the next show or local meetup.

Beyond the stunning visual upgrade, these alloy wheels offer significant functional advantages over traditional stamped steel wheels. Engineered from high-grade aluminum alloy, they provide a substantial reduction in unsprung weight, which directly translates to improved suspension response and crisper handling characteristics. The 5-1/2 inch width allows for a slightly wider tire footprint compared to stock, giving you better lateral stability and a more aggressive stance without requiring radical body modifications. Each wheel comes complete with a sleek chrome center cap and a high-quality valve stem, providing a comprehensive solution for enthusiasts who demand the highest standards in both form and function from their VW performance parts.

FITMENT

This 4 on 130mm bolt pattern is specific to later model air-cooled Volkswagens and Porsche 914 4-cylinder models. Please verify your drum or disc brake bolt pattern before ordering. Common fitments include:

• VW Beetle (Standard): 1968 through 1977
• VW Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1967 through 1974
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1966 through 1973
• Porsche 914: 1970 through 1976 (4-Lug models only)

SPECS

• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5-1/2 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 4 on 130mm
• Backspacing: 4-1/2 Inches
• Offset: +24mm
• Finish: Gloss Black with Polished Face and Lip
• Material: High-Strength Cast Aluminum Alloy
• Lug Seat: 60-Degree Taper (Requires specialized lug bolts/nuts)
• Center Cap: Included (Replacement Part #00-9707-0)
• Valve Stem: Included
• Load Rating: Engineered for street and light performance use

PRO TIPS

1. Always Use the Correct Lug Hardware

One of the most common mistakes when switching from stock steel wheels to EMPI alloys is attempting to reuse the original factory lug bolts. Factory VW wheels typically use a ball-seat lug, whereas these 914 Alloy wheels require a 60-degree taper (cone seat) lug. Using the wrong seat profile will prevent the wheel from centering properly and can lead to the lugs loosening or even damaging the wheel mounting holes. For a clean and secure installation, we highly recommend using EMPI lug bolt kit 00-9519-0 or stud kit 00-9484-0, ensuring you have enough thread engagement through the thicker alloy mounting pad.

2. Check Your Backspacing and Clearance

The 4-1/2 inch backspacing on these wheels is designed to tuck the tire neatly under the fenders, but it is deeper than a standard stock wheel. Before mounting tires, do a dry fit on the front spindles to ensure there is no interference with your tie rod ends or lower ball joints, especially if you are running dropped spindles or an narrowed beam. On the rear, check the clearance between the inner tire sidewall and the spring plate or inner wheel well. If you find the clearance is too tight, a small 3mm or 5mm spacer can often provide the breathing room needed without pushing the tire out past the fender lip.

3. Maintain the Polished Finish Properly

To keep these wheels looking like new for years to come, you must be careful with your cleaning regimen. The polished aluminum sections are sensitive to harsh chemicals and acidic wheel cleaners commonly found at drive-through car washes. We recommend cleaning them only with mild soap and water when the wheels are cool to the touch. Once cleaned, applying a high-quality synthetic wheel sealant or a carnauba-based wax to the polished surfaces will help protect the aluminum from oxidation and make future brake dust removal significantly easier. If the polished lip starts to dull over time, a light hand-polish with a dedicated aluminum metal polish will restore that mirror-like shine.