Sprintstar Wheel, Black with Polished Lip 5 Wide 5 on 205mm

OVERVIEW

The EMPI Sprintstar wheel is an absolute icon in the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, representing a legacy of performance and style that dates back to the golden era of Cal-Look cruising. Originally produced in steel, this modern aluminum alloy rendition from EMPI captures the aggressive, five-spoke aesthetic of the original while offering the significant weight savings and precision casting of contemporary manufacturing. The striking contrast between the deep gloss black spokes and the brilliantly polished outer lip creates a timeless look that perfectly complements everything from a slammed 1950s Oval Window Beetle to a period-correct early Bus. When you bolt these on, you aren''t just changing your wheels; you''re embracing a piece of VW history that has defined the look of modified Volkswagens for decades.

Engineering-wise, these 15-inch by 5-inch wheels are designed to provide the ideal balance of fitment and clearance. The 5 on 205mm bolt patterncommonly referred to as the ''Wide-5''is the standard for early air-cooled models, allowing for a direct fit without the need for cumbersome adapters that can mess with your track width and fender clearance. With a 3-3/4 inch backspacing, these wheels tuck nicely under stock fenders even when running a slightly lowered suspension, making them the go-to choice for enthusiasts who want that narrow-and-tucked appearance. Each wheel comes complete with a high-quality EMPI center cap and a valve stem, ensuring that your installation is clean, professional, and ready for the street or the show circuit.

FITMENT

This wheel features the classic 5x205mm bolt pattern, making it compatible with the following vehicles equipped with original or equivalent drum/disc brakes:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946 through 1966 (and 1967 US models with Wide-5 drums).
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1970 (all Split Window and early Bay Window models).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966.
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1965.
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): Early production or custom Wide-5 conversions.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any chassis utilizing early VW 5-lug spindles and drums.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Style: Sprintstar (5-Spoke Design)
• Finish: Black Center with Polished Lip
• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide-5)
• Backspacing: 3-3/4 Inches (3.75")
• Weight: 14.45 lbs (Lightweight Aluminum Alloy)
• Lug Seat: 60-Degree Taper (Requires specific 12mm aftermarket lugs)
• Center Cap: Included (Replacement Part # 00-9707-0)
• Valve Stem: Included
• Recommended Lug Nut/Bolt: 00-9537-0 or 00-9516-0

PRO TIPS

1. Crucial Lug Seating Requirements

One of the most common mistakes we see at Appletree Auto is the attempt to reuse factory VW lug bolts with these aluminum wheels. Original VW steel wheels use a ''Ball Seat'' lug, but these EMPI Sprintstar wheels are engineered with a 60-degree ''Taper Seat.'' If you try to use your stock lugs, you will not achieve the proper clamping force, which can lead to the wheel loosening or even damaging the lug seats of your new wheels. Always ensure you are using the recommended 12mm 60-degree taper hardware. It''s a small investment that ensures your wheels stay exactly where they belongon your car.

2. Tire Sizing for the Perfect Stance

The 5-inch width of these wheels is incredibly versatile, but choosing the right tire is key to achieving that classic Cal-Look or Resto-Cal stance. If you are running a narrowed beam on a Beetle, many enthusiasts opt for a 135R15 or 145R15 tire in the front to allow for maximum turning radius without fender rub. For the rear, a 165/80R15 or even a 185/65R15 provides a meatier look and fills the wheel well perfectly. Remember to check your clearance between the inner sidewall and the spring plate if you decide to go wider than a 185 series tire in the rear.

3. Maintaining the Polished Finish

To keep that polished lip looking like a mirror, you must avoid using harsh, acid-based wheel cleaners that are common at many automatic car washes. These chemicals can cloud the aluminum finish almost instantly. We recommend using a mild soap and water solution for regular cleaning. Periodically, you should apply a high-quality aluminum polish followed by a coat of wax or a dedicated wheel sealant. This creates a barrier against brake dust and road grime, making future cleanups much easier and preventing the oxidation that can occur on raw polished surfaces over time.