Torque Star Wheel, Grey with Polished Rim, 5 Wide 5 on 205m

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic of your vintage Volkswagen with the EMPI Torque Star Wheel, a perfect blend of classic muscle car styling and iconic air-cooled engineering. This wheel features a striking matte grey center with a high-luster polished rim, providing a sophisticated contrast that complements any paint scheme, from original factory colors to custom show-quality finishes. Designed specifically for the Wide-5 (5 on 205mm) bolt pattern, the Torque Star brings a performance-inspired, five-spoke look to the early VW scene, offering a refreshing alternative to the traditional BRM or Fuchs styles while maintaining that period-correct "hot rod" spirit. Whether you are building a California Look Beetle or a narrowed-beam Ghia, these wheels provide the aggressive stance and timeless appeal that Appletree Auto customers demand.

Beyond its stunning visual appeal, the EMPI Torque Star is engineered for durability and improved handling characteristics. By transitioning from heavy stock steel wheels to these lightweight aluminum alloy units, you effectively reduce unsprung weight, which allows your suspension to react more quickly to road imperfections and improves overall steering response. At five inches wide, this wheel is the ideal choice for those looking to maintain a slim profile that fits comfortably inside stock fenders, even on significantly lowered vehicles. Each wheel comes complete with a dedicated center cap and a chrome valve stem, ensuring you have the essential components to complete your installation with a professional, polished finish. When you choose the Torque Star, you are not just buying a wheel; you are investing in a legacy of air-cooled performance and style.

FITMENT

This wheel features the classic 5 on 205mm "Wide-5" bolt pattern and is designed to fit the following air-cooled Volkswagen models:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946 through 1966 (Standard and Deluxe models).
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966.
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter / Kombi: 1950 through 1970 (Includes Single and Double Cab Pickups).
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1965.
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: Early models or those converted to Wide-5 drums/discs.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any custom chassis utilizing early VW 5-lug drum or disc brake conversions.

SPECS

• Wheel Series: EMPI Torque Star
• Part Number: 00-9754-0
• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide-5)
• Backspacing: 3-1/2 Inches
• Lug Seat: 60 Degree Taper (Conical)
• Finish: Matte Grey Center with Polished Outer Lip
• Material: High-Quality Aluminum Alloy
• Center Cap: Included (Replacement Part # 00-9720-0)
• Valve Stem: Included
• Weight: Approximately 14.5 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Lug Hardware is Critical

One of the most common mistakes we see at Appletree Auto is attempting to use original factory VW lug bolts with aftermarket alloy wheels. Factory VW Wide-5 wheels use a "Ball Seat" lug, whereas the EMPI Torque Star requires a 60-degree "Tapered" (or Conical) seat. Using the wrong hardware will prevent the wheel from seating properly, leading to vibrations, damage to the wheel lug holes, or even wheel loss during operation. We strongly recommend using EMPI Part # 00-9537-0 (Lug Bolts) or 00-9516-0 (Lug Studs) to ensure a safe and secure fitment. Always re-torque your lugs after the first 25 to 50 miles of driving.

2. Tire Selection and Fender Clearance

The 15x5 dimension of this wheel is the "Goldilocks" size for many VW enthusiasts. It allows for a variety of tire choices depending on your build style. For a classic "Cal-Look" rake, many builders pair these wheels with a 135R15 or 145R15 tire in the front and a larger 165R15 or 195/65R15 in the rear. Because the backspacing is 3.5 inches, these wheels tuck nicely into the wheel wells. However, if you are running a narrowed front beam or drop spindles, always check for clearance between the tire sidewall and the inner fender or tie rod ends during full-lock turns to avoid rubbing.

3. Maintaining the Polished Finish

To keep your Torque Stars looking like they just came out of the box, you must treat the polished rim differently than the grey center. The polished lip is raw aluminum and can oxidize over time if exposed to road salt or harsh brake dust. We recommend applying a high-quality carnauba wax or a dedicated aluminum sealant to the polished areas shortly after installation. When cleaning, avoid using acidic wheel cleaners which can "white out" the polished finish or stain the grey paint. A simple solution of mild soap and water, followed by a soft microfiber towel, is the safest way to preserve the factory-fresh shine for years to come.