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

OVERVIEW

Elevate your air-cooled classic with the aggressive, vintage-inspired aesthetics of the Torque Star Wheel set. These wheels bridge the gap between classic American muscle styling and the iconic Wide-5 German engineering of the early Volkswagen. Featuring a sophisticated grey powder-coated center that provides a muted, industrial contrast against the high-luster polished outer rim, these wheels are designed to make a statement at any car show or local meet. The five-spoke design isn''t just about looks; it evokes a period-correct performance feel that perfectly complements the lines of a pre-67 Beetle or an early Bus, giving your ride a wider, more planted stance without compromising the vintage soul of the vehicle. By choosing the grey-and-polished combo, you are opting for a versatile look that pairs beautifully with any paint color, from pastel vintage tones to bold, modern custom hues.

Beyond the striking visual appeal, this complete set of four wheels is engineered for durability and precise fitment on the traditional 5 on 205mm lug patterns. Each wheel measures 5 inches in width, making them an ideal choice for enthusiasts who want a slightly more substantial footprint than stock steelies while maintaining excellent fender clearance on lowered or stock-height setups. We include the matching chrome center caps and valve stems to ensure a seamless installation right out of the box, saving you the hassle of hunting down compatible accessories. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration on a 1966 Ghia or adding some custom flair to a weekend-warrior dune buggy, these Torque Star wheels deliver the perfect blend of structural integrity and timeless "California Look" style that Appletree Automotive is known for providing to the VW community.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle: 1946 through 1967 (All models with Wide-5 5x205mm pattern)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966
• VW Bus / Type 2: 1950 through 1970 (Transporter, Kombi, Microbus)
• VW Thing / Type 181: All years utilizing 5x205mm hubs
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any custom chassis utilizing early VW drum or disc brake conversions with a 5 on 205mm bolt circle
• VW Type 3: 1961 through 1965 (Squareback, Notchback, Fastback)

SPECS

• Quantity: Complete Set of 4 Wheels
• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide 5)
• Backspacing: 3-1/2 Inches
• Finish: Grey Powder Coated Center with Polished Outer Lip
• Lug Seat: 60 Degree Taper (Fits 12mm hardware)
• Material: High-Quality Aluminum Alloy
• Center Cap: Chrome "Torque Star" Style Included (Part # 00-9720-0)
• Valve Stems: Included with set
• Recommended Lug Hardware: 00-9537-0 (Lugs) & 00-9516-0 (Studs)

PRO TIPS

1. Hardware Compatibility is Critical

When upgrading from stock steel wheels to aluminum alloy wheels like the Torque Star series, you absolutely cannot reuse your original VW lug bolts. Stock bolts are typically designed for thin steel and often feature a ball-seat radius. These wheels require a 60-degree taper (cone seat) lug. We highly recommend installing a high-quality stud and nut conversion kit. This not only makes mounting the heavy wheel/tire combo much easier but also ensures that you have the correct thread engagement and seat pressure to prevent the wheels from loosening during spirited driving. Always check your clearances after the first 50 miles of driving and re-torque your lugs to ensure everything has settled correctly.

2. Selecting the Perfect Tire Size

The 5-inch width of these wheels is the "sweet spot" for many classic VW applications, but tire selection is key to achieving the look you want without rubbing. For a classic "Cal-Look" rake, many builders opt for a 135R15 or 145R15 tire in the front to allow for a lower stance, paired with a beefier 165R15 or 185/70R15 in the rear. If you are running a stock-height Bus or Beetle and want a comfortable ride, a squared-off set of 165/80R15 tires works perfectly on all four corners. Because these wheels have a 3.5-inch backspacing, they pull the tire slightly inward, which is incredibly helpful if you are running a narrowed beam or dropped spindles where fender-to-tire contact is a primary concern.

3. Maintaining the Polished Lip Finish

To keep these wheels looking brand new for years to come, you must treat the polished outer rim differently than the painted grey center. The polished aluminum is susceptible to oxidation if left exposed to road salt, brake dust, or harsh chemical cleaners. We recommend applying a high-quality synthetic wheel sealant or a carnauba-based wax to the polished lip immediately after installation. This creates a sacrificial barrier against the elements. When washing your car, avoid using "acid-based" wheel cleaners which can cloud the polished finish instantly. Stick to pH-neutral soap and a soft microfiber wash mitt, and always dry the wheels thoroughly to prevent water spots from etching into the aluminum surface.