Hooniverse Asks- What Manufacturer has the Coolest Factory Wheels?

Robert Emslie

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H3 Wooden Wheels

Nothing is perhaps more important when it comes to keeping your car or truck’s tires from just rolling away than it’s wheels. And, not only are they invaluable in that aspect, but they also remain one of the best ways to personalize your ride, as expression of your own, individual taste. But it’s not those aftermarket wheels that we’re interested in today, instead we want to know what car maker has wheels that you’d least want to let go.

Whether it was painted and pinstriped spokes, gleaming chrome-plated covers, or aggressive alloys, over the course of automotive history factory wheels have long been an important styling component. Today, only the cheapest of rides are saddled with steel wheels and flimsy plastic hubcaps. The rest are offered with not juts one, but a multitude of alloy wheel shape and color options, many in sizes that demonstrate their position as a primary messenger of the vehicle’s styling and performance intents.

But which are the best? What factory wheels – alloy or hupcapped – are the most awesomest? 

Image source: [enginemonsters]

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Robert Emslie

Robert Emslie

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149 responses to “Hooniverse Asks- What Manufacturer has the Coolest Factory Wheels?”

  1. Josh_Howard Avatar
    Josh_Howard

    Shockingly? I actually have liked all the new Jeep wheels out recently. They've remained simple while adding small details. I'm even impressed by the new Rubicon wheels. Here's a link if you need reminding: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/201…

    Reply
    1. IronBallsMcG Avatar
      IronBallsMcG

      I'm considering a new Rubicon (or Moab) and I hated the new wheels at first, but even though I still love the TJ Rubicon wheels these are starting to grow on me.

      Reply
    2. luisthebeast Avatar
      luisthebeast

      Like this?
      <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-subaru-xv-crosstrek-review.jpg"&gt;

      Reply
  2. Kris_01 Avatar
    Kris_01

    <img src="http://www.turbododge.com/forums/attachments/parts-sale/31493d1252473850-15-polished-turbo-wheels-drag-radial-polished-turbo-wheels-tires-003.jpg&quot; width="600">
    84-88 Dodge 15" "Pizza" wheels.
    Seriously, they look good on anything.

    Reply
    1. Felis_Concolor Avatar
      Felis_Concolor

      Indeed, if you had a 5×100 bolt pattern, those were the hot ticket when some misguided Mopar owner wanted to add aftermarket wheels to their ride and sold them cheap. Plus, with everyone else using 14" wheels from the factory, you got the benefits of +1 wheel and tire combinations in the bargain.

      Reply
      1. OA5599 Avatar
        OA5599

        Also available as 4-lug for non-turbo cars.
        <img src="http://www.turbododge.com/forums/attachments/parts-sale/40123d1300645968-4-lug-pizzas-1210101223.jpg&quot; width=500>

        Reply
  3. Syrax Avatar
    Syrax

    Jaguar for sure. From the Aleutian going through the Kasuga and Meru to the Senta, from the Asteroid to the more recent Selena and Mataiva, they always put some effort.
    <img src="http://www.madisonjaguar.com/jaguar_boutique/xj2011pics/20MATAIVA02C2D10951_t.jpg"/&gt;

    Reply
  4. I Think Not Avatar
    I Think Not

    I think we've got to give a nod to any manufacturer that offered any type of BBS basketweaves as a factory option. I think they look good on most cars (emphasis on most, because when they look wrong, they look WRONG), and simply paining "weave" in a different color can dramatically change the look.
    I think all the Germans are included in that group, if not currently, than sometime in the past. I believe that Toyota and Mazda have also offered the basketweaves on their sportier offerings at some point or another.
    <img src="http://home.comcast.net/~james.pawlicki/rabbit13.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. JayP2112 Avatar
      JayP2112

      Pirelli wheels:
      <img src="http://www.passiongolfgti.com/IMG/jpg/golfiste1_Michael01.jpg&quot; >

      Reply
      1. I Think Not Avatar
        I Think Not

        I'm not sure I dig those, to be honest. I appreciate the funkiness of the P-shaped holes, but it just doesn't rustle my jimmies. My favorite Mk1 factory wheels are the snowflakes. I'd go ape if I could find a set of those for my MK1 convertible.
        <img src="http://bringatrailer.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/1983_VOlkswagen_VW_GTI_Mk1_Hatchback_Rear_1.jpg"&gt;

        Reply
    2. JayP2112 Avatar
      JayP2112

      The A2 GLI was a fav: The wheels made it for me.
      <img src="http://bringatrailer.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/1990_Volkswagen_Jetta_GLI_16V_For_Sale_Rear_1.jpg&quot; width="600">

      Reply
  5. muthalovin Avatar
    muthalovin

    No aftermarket rims look good on an NSX. The stock wheels are by far the best.
    I mean, this guy seems to like them, and who am I to argue?
    <img src="http://startinggrid.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/541980_10151146454914782_37820774781_13429270_1988576014_n.jpg&quot; width=550>

    Reply
    1. flatteblack Avatar
      flatteblack

      I always thought Volk CE28N's didn't look too dreadful.. <img src=http://www.scienceofspeed.com/products/exterior_performance_products/NSX/Rays/Volk/mono-block/ce28n/P1000318%5B1%5D.jpg width=600>

      Reply
  6. OA5599 Avatar
    OA5599

    Not that the styling was anything you would consider exceptional, but you have to give Shelby credit for being the first to make a plastic fiberglass composite wheel.
    <img src="http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/3331/2001/8326000010_large.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. needthatcar Avatar
      needthatcar

      These things would fall apart when you try to change tires. Seriously, big chunks of the inner bead flake off. Back when I changed tires, we had a customer with one of these who had inner tubes in 3 of 4 wheels because they wouldn't seal to the bead.

      Reply
  7. Kris_01 Avatar
    Kris_01

    <img src="http://images.autocatch.com/15979370614fda1d63b19dc-640×480.jpg&quot; width="600">
    Umm…….

    Reply
    1. FuzzyPlushroom Avatar
      FuzzyPlushroom

      I always liked these.
      <img src="http://carpicturesandmodels.com/wp-content/gallery/ford_Crown_Victoria/ford_crown_victoria_crash.jpg&quot; width="600/">
      I know, mentioned below, but still.

      Reply
  8. HSA Avatar
    HSA

    Alfa Romeo pepper pots:
    <img src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTwePpULigODX-LnqrC2MzR_5rN3YfgTvhp2ILkhDb5MA9g7BYp"&gt;
    Also with larger holes:
    <img src="http://foreverdriven.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/alfa-romeo.jpg?w=510&h=294"&gt;

    Reply
    1. TrueBlue315 Avatar
      TrueBlue315

      The pepper pots remind me of another Italian manufacturer's wheel:
      <img src="http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-1990-1999/1999-Lamborghini-Diablo-VT-Blue-Front-Angle-st.jpg"&gt;

      Reply
  9. Andrew Avatar
    Andrew

    Honestly, I have to give this one to Mercedes. Much as I don't care for how their products dirve, their wheel choices hit it out of the park… a few examples below:
    SLR turbines:
    <img src="http://images.gtcarlot.com/pictures/249766.jpg"&gt;
    SLS sport pack:
    <img src="http://image.europeancarweb.com/f/firstlook/epcp_1206_2012_mercedes_benz_sls_amg_roadster/36018179+w320/epcp-1206-03-o+2012-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-roadster+wheels.jpg"&gt;
    And for a classic touch, the 190E Cosworth Evo's Borbets:
    <img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v217/yan36/190wheel.gif"&gt;

    Reply
    1. I Think Not Avatar
      I Think Not

      Don't forget the classic AMG monoblock!
      <img src="http://www.carshine.com.au/Wheels/Wheels%20-%20AMG%20W210-202%20Style2%2017-18in.jpg"&gt;

      Reply
      1. Rover 1 Avatar
        Rover 1

        Most copied aero wheel.

        Reply
  10. smalleyxb122 Avatar
    smalleyxb122

    I was going to vote for OEM BMW BBS, but just about any basket weave wheel will do. Therefore, I shall give my vote to Pontiac for the wheels that came on the GTA.
    <img src="http://static.ddmcdn.com/gif/1988-pontiac-firebird-trans-am-gta.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. Mohammed Khan Avatar
      Mohammed Khan

      The black lace/mesh wheels on the Trans Am is better looking. But gold is cool.

      Reply
  11. Maymar Avatar
    Maymar

    I'm going to give Kia a bit of love – if you spring for some of their more upmarket models, you get a pretty decent set of wheels. Granted, it's surrounded by one of the most aggressively benchmarking, built to a price point cars on the market, but you know, the wheels look decent. Hell, they even put a decent set on a people carrier!
    <img src="http://www.driving.ca/microsites/autoshow/7967244.bin?size=620×400&quot; width=500 /img>

    Reply
  12. OA5599 Avatar
    OA5599

    Porsche Phone Dials
    <img src="http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploads17/944131275505186.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  13. engineerd Avatar
    engineerd

    I'm really diggin' Ford's snowflake wheels. Especially on the Focus ST.
    <img width=500 src="http://image.motortrend.com/f/roadtests/overview/1303_2013_ford_focus_st_2013_subaru_brz/45847623/2013-Ford-Focus-ST-front.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. muthalovin Avatar
      muthalovin

      Totally. Especially.

      Reply
    2. Tim Odell Avatar
      Tim Odell

      I wonder if those will fit my Mazda5…

      Reply
  14. JayP2112 Avatar
    JayP2112

    Fuchs- old and new.
    <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/singerdesign911_02-620op.jpg&quot; width="600">
    <img src="http://www.suncoastparts.com/mm5/graphics/00000001/FUCHS19WHEELS.jpg&quot; width="600">

    Reply
    1. JayP2112 Avatar
      JayP2112

      Porsche Cups:
      <img src="http://i399.photobucket.com/albums/pp80/volk5wagen/94-95AudiRS220vT.jpg&quot; width="600">

      Reply
  15. $kaycog Avatar
    $kaycog

    Ford GT optional wheels.
    <img src="http://www.motorcars-intl.com/images/Ford/GT/552_M-4144/full/Ford_GT_11.jpg"width="500"/&gt;

    Reply
  16. JayP2112 Avatar
    JayP2112

    The whole Buick-Opel-Vauxhaul thing I dig:
    <img src="http://briggsauto.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/2011-buick-regal-cxl-turbo-1.jpg&quot; width="600">

    Reply
  17. Vavon Avatar
    Vavon

    The alloy wheels on the 205 GTI 1.9 (also fitted to the 309 GTI). The ones on the GTI 1.6 are a close second.
    <img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6043/6336419509_7d406c18d0_z.jpg&quot; width="640/">

    Reply
  18. TrueBlue315 Avatar
    TrueBlue315

    Mercury Marauder 18" chrome five spokes. Against the black paint, the contrast was perfect.
    <img src="http://images1.americanlisted.com/nlarge/2003_mercury_marauder_22928949.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. muthalovin Avatar
      muthalovin

      Man, I used to search Craigslist for Marauders all the time, but for some reason have not. Going to make it a priority today.

      Reply
    2. mohammed khan Avatar
      mohammed khan

      They are okay but to common looking.

      Reply
  19. TrueBlue315 Avatar
    TrueBlue315

    For a current wheel, I think the elegant RS5's five spoke deserves mention:
    <img src="http://image.europeancarweb.com/f/firstlook/epcp_1211_2013_audi_rs5/39449447+w791/epcp-1211-05+2013-audi-rs5+wheel.jpg"&gt;
    Understated, but damn do they look good…

    Reply
  20. LTDScott Avatar
    LTDScott

    While they're not particular exciting, I've liked a lot of Nissan's recent factory wheels. Well shaped spokes, a nice shade of grey, and not too flashy. Nice looking for a "regular" car.
    <img src="http://www.motorstown.com/images/nissan-titan-02.jpg&quot; width=650>
    <img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/ce/2007-2008_Nissan_Maxima_–_11-23-2009.jpg&quot; width=650>

    Reply
  21. PotbellyJoe Avatar
    PotbellyJoe

    I think overall, I see the Europeans copying Mercedes wheels, especially the AMG styles. And I believe imitation is the highest form of flattery.
    But to be different I will select a domestic as well. And that vote goes to Ford.
    The five point SVT rims were classics, be it on a Mustang, SHO, Thunderbird or even the Lightning. They always look good:
    <img src="http://media.motortopia.com/files/1711/vehicle/4664a6dfb7086/101_1888.jpg&quot; width=450>
    The Euro set for the Focus was a nice touch:
    <img src="http://www.dragtimes.com/images/6608-2003-Ford-Focus.jpg&quot; width=450>
    The new Taurus rims look great:
    <img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a4/2013_Ford_Taurus_SHO_–_2012_DC.JPG&quot; width=450>
    As do the new Mustang wheels:
    <img src="http://mustangsdaily.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/01_boss302live.jpg&quot; width=450>
    The key thing is that they are not afraid to have slightly different style than most non-luxury lines. The recent products especially have been high on style.

    Reply
    1. JayP2112 Avatar
      JayP2112

      I had those euros on my Focus SVT. The 2004's came with 6 spoke wheels that weren't that sharp. Found a set w/ tires on ebay for $400.

      Reply
    2. TrueBlue315 Avatar
      TrueBlue315

      Ford had a bunch of good looking wheels in the '90s. My personal favorite were the SHO slicers. I sold a spare set of these from my '95 for $200, and kept the Italian made ones:
      <img src="http://static.ddmcdn.com/gif/1992-1995-ford-taurus-sho.jpg"&gt;

      Reply
  22. HSA Avatar
    HSA

    What, Saab Aero wheels not posted yet? (Well, I still prefer the pepperpots.)
    <img src="http://motokiller.pl/uimages/services/motokiller/i18n/pl_PL//201211/1352998206_by_TrollHirschAero.jpg?1353054671"&gt;

    Reply
  23. vetteman61 Avatar
    vetteman61

    Any wheel without an inset lip looks on anything other than an old car from the 50s looks awful to me. For example, the difference between the 1977 snowflake wheel on the Trans Am verses the 8" version in 1978 is all the difference in the world.

    Reply
  24. kingcrowing Avatar
    kingcrowing

    <img src="http://www.willz.ca/images/DSCF3835.JPG&quot; width="600">

    Reply
    1. kingcrowing Avatar
      kingcrowing

      E34 M5 "Throwing Star" rims

      Reply
    2. pogokat Avatar
      pogokat

      The throwing stars are so much cooler because the turbines they replaced were sooooo uncool

      Reply
  25. OA5599 Avatar
    OA5599

    Classic Bugatti, anyone? These wheels were three-quarters of a century ahead of their time.
    <img src="http://yo.spc.free.fr/photos_Events_Vigeant2005/part%20V/Bugatti-T35.jpg&quot; width=500>

    Reply
    1. dukeisduke Avatar
      dukeisduke

      Yeah, those are awesome. Ettore Bugatti? Damn genius.

      Reply
    2. topdeadcentre Avatar
      topdeadcentre

      They're even more awesome and brutal when viewing them in person rather than in a photo…

      Reply
  26. cheapthrills Avatar
    cheapthrills

    I'd like to nominate Holden and HSV wheels as a company grouping.
    Holden HSV GTS: Sure, they're a bit gaudy and techno-busy for my tastes, but they're undeniably cool, and very daring for factory pieces.
    <img src="http://www.hsv.com.au/galleries/hsv/eseries2_gts/GTS7.jpg&quot; width="600">
    Same car, other wheel option:
    <img src="http://www.caradvice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/wheel-1.jpg&quot; width="600">
    CV8-Z wheels were made with and without the lettering:
    <img src="http://www.gmhsurplus.com.au/CV8Z.JPG&quot; width="600">
    CV8-R
    <img src="http://holmart.com.au/online/images/vycv8r04.jpg&quot; width="600">

    Reply
    1. engineerd Avatar
      engineerd

      Not garish enough.
      <img src="http://www.gtrspec.com.au/_assets/images/content/look/slides/FPV_GTRSPEC_studioside.jpg&quot; width="500">
      Also, I just want to take this moment to commend Australia on putting large engines in 4-door cars. We need more of that here in the US.

      Reply
  27. OA5599 Avatar
    OA5599

    Corvette Knock Offs.
    <img src="http://www.anamericanclassic.com/images/1966SilCorvCoupe/SilCorvCoupe.jpg&quot; width=500>

    Reply
    1. TrueBlue315 Avatar
      TrueBlue315

      The "rally" wheel from '67 to '81, something about it keeps it aggressive but still classic.
      <img src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR2r91zy12HfSJKvBqFncs7PtNYOW1hFdYU1_4-tDT6K2yAVyz8AQ"&gt;
      These look great on any GM intermediate.

      Reply
    2. mr. mzs zsm msz esq Avatar
      mr. mzs zsm msz esq

      <img src="http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1343/5114876017_54c0840f3d.jpg&quot; width="500" height="375" alt="1980 Volvo 245 GL"> I have some bad ideas now with fake knock-offs that are spinners instead, thank you. <img src="http://www.volvoadventures.com/262DuncanHarvey6B.jpg&quot; width="500">

      Reply
  28. Devin Avatar
    Devin

    I like what Dodge is putting on their Darts.
    <img src="http://www.carpages.ca/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_4990-580×386.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  29. dukeisduke Avatar
    dukeisduke

    Crown Victoria Touring Sedan:
    <img src="http://detroit.in.ua/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/92p75-37.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. stigshift Avatar
      stigshift

      That is NOT the factory P75 Touring Sedan wheel! That is a 16" alloy from the '93-up Crown Vic with the HPP option, The P75 had a two tone 15" alloy rim that was exclusive to '92-only Touring Sedan. This guy's car is probably the BEST survivor in existence, but these wheels were added on. I'll try to post a photo here, but my computer is not letting me do that easily. http://auto.aggress.ru/images/22/Crown%20Victoria…

      Reply
  30. smalleyxb122 Avatar
    smalleyxb122

    In my defense, you asked for the coolest, not the best looking. There is certainly something cool about NACA ducted wheels.
    I've already "voted" for BBS style basket weaves, so I'll just give the Autech Stelvio an honorable mention.
    <img src="http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/18axh9gc4oc3mjpg/ku-large.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. Irishzombieman Avatar
      Irishzombieman

      That's kinda cool (pun unintentional). Wish they'd done two smaller ones, just for the sake of symmetry.

      Reply
    2. JayP2112 Avatar
      JayP2112

      Are those backwards?

      Reply
      1. jeepjeff Avatar
        jeepjeff

        They're correctly oriented. Passenger side wheels turn clockwise when driving forward. The wide edge is the leading edge of the NACA duct.

        Reply
        1. OA5599 Avatar
          OA5599

          So are these intended to flow outside air to the brakes, or vent brake air to the outside? Every fixed NACA duct I've seen has the wide edge at the back.
          <img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3323/3526074932_c6bb57ec8a_z.jpg&quot; width=500">
          <img src="http://hooniverse.info/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Lamborghini_Espada-650×346.jpg&quot; width=500>
          <img src="http://img697.imageshack.us/img697/8155/16205yb1024x780.jpg&quot; width=500>

          Reply
          1. JayP2112 Avatar
            JayP2112

            I was thinking the same.
            Maybe it draws air from the center out.

          2. jeepjeff Avatar
            jeepjeff

            FML. Looks like I get crow for breakfast. Delicious, delicious crow.

    3. Preludacris Avatar
      Preludacris

      Is there a warbling whistle or thrumming sound at high speeds? It seems to me the duct would only work when facing forward at the top of the wheel, which would also be its peak velocity. I'm sure in reality it's okay, but imagining what could happen is a lot of fun.

      Reply
      1. jeepjeff Avatar
        jeepjeff

        Let's see, assuming the tire is rolling without slipping (a mostly good assumption), the wheel will have an angular velocity such that the outside diameter of the tire has linear velocity equal to the velocity of the car. Which means that on any given diameter on the wheel, the linear velocity of a point will be slower than the car is moving.
        The next assumption is that the air speed across the side of the wheel is equal to the velocity of the car and in the opposite direction (this is likely wildly not correct, tire/wheel aerodynamics are a bitch, but I've got a BS in Physics, so that's what I'm doing, BSing). Given that assumption, at the top, the effective airspeed is going to be directly into the NACA duct and twice the speed of the car. At the bottom, it should be effectively zero airspeed. In between, the air will be flowing partially across the duct, so there will be some component of the airflow across the duct in the right direction for most of the wheel's rotation (there will be a mostly dead zone centered on NACA duct opening vertical).
        Of course, I made a big sweeping assumption about the airflow, and fluid dynamics is never that nice. My real point is it would be potentially effective at a lot of other points. However, your observation that there is likely an aerodynamic blip is almost certainly correct. I really want a set of these now.

        Reply
        1. Preludacris Avatar
          Preludacris

          An informative, knowledgeable reply – thanks.
          Would it make more sense to add a second duct rotated 180* and opposite from the first?

          Reply
          1. jeepjeff Avatar
            jeepjeff

            That should help. There is also the chance that the effect is nothing more than a bit of interesting speed dependent wind noise, in which case the second duct would likely just make it a bit more constant. It could mean more air to the brakes, which would be another benefit.
            However, I haven't done any math or other modeling, so this is all educated guess work. They are still dorky and awesome wheels.

          2. jeepjeff Avatar
            jeepjeff

            It would have been helpful, except I had NACA ducts backwards (I'm blaming Friday evening; I don't know what I was thinking). I think my handwavy vector math is right, but that means that the peak flow in the correct direction is the very bottom, so it's no better than any shaped hole on the rim.

          3. Preludacris Avatar
            Preludacris

            That's okay. I'm disappointed I didn't catch it either. Maybe the wheels were accidentally mounted on the wrong side for the photo shoot.

  31. don fehlio Avatar
    don fehlio

    Personally, I've got the Mk2 Supra alloys on my Cressida.
    <img src="http://i930.photobucket.com/albums/ad145/10victorg/DSC_0133.jpg&quot; width="600">
    If the picture doesn't show up, <a href="http://i930.photobucket.com/albums/ad145/10victorg/DSC_0133.jpg” target=”_blank”>http://i930.photobucket.com/albums/ad145/10victorg/DSC_0133.jpg

    Reply
  32. XRSevin Avatar
    XRSevin

    Mustang Bullets:
    <img src="http://media.caranddriver.com/images/media/208378/2008-ford-mustang-bullitt-wheel-photo-208385-s-1280×782.jpg&quot; width="600">

    Reply
    1. JayP2112 Avatar
      JayP2112

      That's what I'm rockin' on the GT:
      <img src="http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/531080_10151181448747853_1581031085_n.jpg&quot; width="600">

      Reply
  33. Irishzombieman Avatar
    Irishzombieman

    I shall never tire of the Beemer bottlecap.
    <img src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/BMW-E28-E24-14-Bottlecap-Wheel-14×6-5-528e-533i-535i-633CSi-635CSi-E23-735i-OEM-/00/s/MTQ2NlgxNTM2/$%28KGrHqV,!p8FBmuJR9SJBQf0!0cFiw~~60_35.JPG" width=500>

    Reply
    1. Irishzombieman Avatar
      Irishzombieman

      Also, the coffin mags on the Lancia Stratos.
      <img src="http://thumbsnap.com/s/W4KiD1JQ.jpg&quot; width=400>

      Reply
    2. karmatose Avatar
      karmatose

      I've got four sets of the 4×100 14" bottlecaps I have no idea what to do with.

      Reply
      1. I Think Not Avatar
        I Think Not

        Hurr? What? Just… sitting around? Them're a direct fit on my Mk1 Rabbit.
        If only I had monies, cause right now I could only give you about tree fiddy.
        Curse my pitiful paychecks!

        Reply
        1. karmatose Avatar
          karmatose

          Yep, just sitting around. I was thinking about welding some together and making a coffee table out of them. Honestly, find your local BMW club or local BMW scrapper and you will find some cheap bottlecaps. E30 owners in my area can't even seem to give them away. A friend of mine just scrapped well over 30 bottlecaps because no one wants them and they were worth more as scrap.

          Reply
          1. Preludacris Avatar
            Preludacris

            They're a good fit on 4×100 Hondas. Which means the market for them is actually huge – just not within the BMW community. The problem is that 14" is considered miniscule these days.

  34. dukeisduke Avatar
    dukeisduke

    Pretty much anything by Borrani:
    <img src="http://www.alfabb.com/bb/forums/attachments/new-zealand-forum/104556d1212318797-borrani-mag-wheels-dsc00043.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  35. quattrovalvole Avatar
    quattrovalvole

    Citroen
    <img src="http://gomotors.net/pics/Citroen/citroen-cx-gti-03.jpg&quot; />
    <img src="http://www.bestautophoto.com/images/tuning-citroen-bx-19-02.jpg&quot; />

    Reply
  36. scroggzilla Avatar
    scroggzilla

    I always liked the painted steel wheels that Chrysler used to use.
    <img src="http://www.gatewayclassiccars.com/images/carpics/STL/4118/4118.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. OA5599 Avatar
      OA5599

      Not a factory wheel for that car; that's a misleading picture. Those wheels didn't come out until the Barracuda had switched from the A body to the E body in 1970, and those center caps came out a few years after that.
      How about some "recall" wheels instead? These premium option wheels hadn't been out very long before Chrysler issued a recall for cracking and loosening issues and they destroyed every set they got back.
      <img src="http://static.flickr.com/36/120043852_c51446c0c0.jpg?v=0"&gt;

      Reply
  37. dukeisduke Avatar
    dukeisduke

    Not factory, but maybe the funkiest – Ronal Teddy Bears:
    <img src="http://www.skierpage.com/civic/images/ronal_teddy_bear_wheel.jpg"&gt;
    the evil version:
    <img src="http://img484.imageshack.us/img484/4307/bear7yy.jpg"&gt;
    and the Angry Winnie The Pooh version:
    <img src="http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r320/escort_photo/daisuke_shouten_023.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. wunno sev Avatar
      wunno sev

      bring the ruckus
      <img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LfBfySIH-G8/TcCb2l2T_PI/AAAAAAAAARw/57A_SuJsSq0/s400/wu-rim.jpg%22%22width=%22400%22"&gt;

      Reply
  38. dukeisduke Avatar
    dukeisduke

    Today's WTH? award goes to:
    <img src="http://ekhatch.files.wordpress.com/2008/07/michelin14x6.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. jeepjeff Avatar
      jeepjeff

      You're only allowed to run Pirellis on those, right?

      Reply
  39. dukeisduke Avatar
    dukeisduke

    I can't find any pictures, but the BMW E30 wheels with the round holes.

    Reply
  40. Alff Avatar
    Alff

    Yes, I'm boring. I miss factory white wagon wheels on 4x4s.
    <img src="http://my.project-jk.com/data/500/CJ_white_wheels.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  41. Tumeke Avatar
    Tumeke

    <img src="http://www.bmwmregistry.com/faq/E36_M3_Early_Wheel.jpg&quot; width="600">
    Early BMW E36 M3

    Reply
  42. CABEZAGRANDE Avatar
    CABEZAGRANDE

    Overall, I have to go with BMW. All of their optional BBS wheels through the late 90s and early 2000s were just gorgeous. The E34 M5 wheels were wonderful. The similar wheel on the E36 M3s was almost as great. And the M-Parallel is one of the best wheels ever designed. So simple, and yet so beautiful. BMW just almost never misses when it comes to wheels.
    <img src="http://www.ultraracing.lv/bmw/BMW-E38.jpg&quot; width="600">

    Reply
    1. CheeseSlap Avatar
      CheeseSlap

      A million times, this. There is no BMW, past or present, that cannot be improved with a set of M Parallels.

      Reply
  43. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
    Peter Tanshanomi

    Ford and Jeep come to my mind, not because of one design, but because they seem to routinely have factory wheels that I notice and appreciate.
    <img src="http://www.tanshanomi.com/temp/jeepwheels.png"&gt;
    <img src="http://www.tanshanomi.com/temp/fordwheels.png"&gt;

    Reply
  44. Sjalabais Avatar
    Sjalabais

    Since I see that everyone stays with their respective flavour, I'll have to say Volvo's Perfo and Galileo/Turbine (?) wheels.
    But before that – steel wheels anyone? They are the bread and butter option, yes. But we should praise their functionality and longevity.
    <img src="http://www.originalwheels.com/volvo-wheels/images/volvo-240-rims-70167.jpg"&gt;
    This one is the one I have always liked best on any boxy car:
    <img src="http://www.originalwheels.com/volvo-wheels/images/volvo-240-wheels-70149.jpg"&gt;
    And this went on the 850/V70.
    <img src="http://www.dealershipaccessories.com/stores/images/items/item_40741.gif"&gt;

    Reply
    1. Irishzombieman Avatar
      Irishzombieman

      ". . .steel wheels. . . we should praise their functionality and longevity"
      And the fact that you can fix 'em with a hammer.
      <img src="http://www.professionalequipment.com/product_images/lbv96727s_product.jpg"&gt;

      Reply
      1. Sjalabais Avatar
        Sjalabais

        Everytime I "fix" something with a hammer I need to cry a little. But, yes, I see your point that somebody without two left hands and ten sausage fingers might actually master this advanced tool.

        Reply
    2. wunno sev Avatar
      wunno sev

      i am all about the perfos. currently hunting down an 850 or 98 v70 wagon, when i find the right one it's getting perfos asap and maybe a 1-2" drop
      people drop megabux on pegs but i don't like them much…see below
      <img src="http://swedespeed.com/old_site/resources/gallery/special_cars/wheels/fwd_17/images/large/16.jpg"&gt;

      Reply
      1. Sjalabais Avatar
        Sjalabais

        Good luck with your hunt! 🙂

        Reply
      2. FuzzyPlushroom Avatar
        FuzzyPlushroom

        Shit! Someone upvote this man, my finger slipped.
        Pegs have no dish, and no dish looks weird to me. They're particularly awkward on RWD cars. C'mon, get a set of Galaxies or Polariseseses; at least those look right.

        Reply
    3. FuzzyPlushroom Avatar
      FuzzyPlushroom

      Volvo 14" steelies really do look that good. I'd have to disagree with you on the 'Corona' turbines, though… if I wanted to stick with 14s, I'd track down some 240 Classic 'Scorpius'…
      <img src="http://all-carz.com/data_images/volvo-240-gli-limited-edition/volvo-240-gli-limited-edition-07.jpg&quot; width=600>
      …but my actual plan is to use my favourite Volvo wheels, the 'Sirius'/'Nova' 15s from the early 760:
      <img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5059/5641946186_1f05e6a699_z.jpg&quot; width=600>
      I wouldn't turn down a set of Multi-Xes (later 780) either…
      <img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4d/Volvo780.jpg&quot; width=600>

      Reply
      1. Sjalabais Avatar
        Sjalabais

        We can settle on the Sirius/Nova wheels. =8^) I generally like spoke wheels, but not on bricks. Makes them look like fat ballerinas…

        Reply
  45. racer139 Avatar
    racer139

    Volvoes tritan, titan, propius and comet 17" wheels.

    Reply
  46. jonathan Avatar
    jonathan

    Saab Soccerballs.
    5-lug
    <img src="http://jpowell.tripod.com/saab-wheels/2-digit/5-lug-soccer-ball-hochstetter.jpg&quot; width="600">
    4-lug
    <img src="http://www.classicsaab.net/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=8556&g2_serialNumber=2&quot; width="600">

    Reply
    1. mallthus Avatar
      mallthus

      I was looking for this one!!!

      Reply
  47. needthatcar Avatar
    needthatcar

    Plymouth Arrow Sport. It feels good just to say the name.
    <img src="http://hooniverse.info/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/White-Arrow4.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. CherokeeOwner Avatar
      CherokeeOwner

      Speaking of which, how is your Arrow doing? You still have it, right?

      Reply
      1. needthatcar Avatar
        needthatcar

        It's coming along. I swapped in a running motor and a manual trans. It just needs a few finishing touches like park brake, speedo cable, etc, and it'll be good to go. Mostly, I'm just waiting for some decent weather so I can drive it.

        Reply
  48. muthalovin Avatar
    muthalovin

    I want my friend with at Golf TDI to get a set of these:
    <img src="http://www.golfmkv.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=38172&stc=1&d=1233593844&quot; width=550>

    Reply
  49. muthalovin Avatar
    muthalovin

    Oh, yeah, Raptor wheels. They look the part.
    <img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/trucks/1/0/y/S/1/SVT-Raptor-Articulation.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  50. OA5599 Avatar
    OA5599

    The 1969 440 Six Pack/Six Barrel cars came with chrome lug nuts on black steelies without hubcaps. If an owner wanted frills, he could add them later.
    <img src="http://images.hemmings.com/wp-content/uploads//2012/10/A12RoadRunner_1200.jpg&quot; width=500>

    Reply
    1. JayP2112 Avatar
      JayP2112

      What's old is new again…
      <img src="http://brakebanzeen.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/subaru-brz-ra-rear-profile.jpg&quot; width="600">

      Reply
    2. TrueBlue315 Avatar
      TrueBlue315

      The A12 has got to be one of the most no-nonsense factory options ever offered. 440 Six pack, lift off hood, JJ blackouts, red streaks. Add stoplights, accelerate for 12 seconds, stir the four-speed, repeat, enjoy.

      Reply
  51. wisc47 Avatar
    wisc47

    Hey I love steelies, bottle caps, and basket weave wheels as much as the next guy, but Citroen's new wheels are pretty feckin' slick.
    <img src="http://www.automild.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/2009-Citroen-REVOLTe-Concept-Wheels-588×441.jpg"&gt;
    <img src="http://www.citroen.ie/Resources/Content/IE/06_univers/01_technologies/04_accessories/valonga.jpg"&gt;
    <img src="http://www.citroen-accessories.com/~citroen/484908-1340-large/jante-alliage-leger-canaveral-18-citroen-ds5.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  52. Lotte Avatar
    Lotte

    I think these Oldsmobiles look reeealy good:
    <img src="http://photos.ecarlist.com/mY/Le/qR/Y7/CH/C1/Z2/qm/8u/xJ/Kg_800.jpg&quot; width=500>

    Reply
  53. Reuven Avatar
    Reuven

    The early 2000 Audi ABl's pie-plate wheels. Or the SAAB Aztec rims.

    Reply
    1. Reuven Avatar
      Reuven

      A8l spelling.

      Reply
  54. LBJ's Love Child Avatar
    LBJ's Love Child

    <img src="http://i600.photobucket.com/albums/tt90/oakesdetail/Jaguar/XKE017.jpg&quot; width="600">
    XKE wires.

    Reply
  55. marmer01 Avatar
    marmer01

    I'm biased, but late-90's Audi B5 five-spokes:
    <img src="http://img2.netcarshow.com/Audi-A4_Avant_1998_800x600_wallpaper_03.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. JayP2112 Avatar
      JayP2112

      Those were nice. I almost dumped them for a set of Avus wheels though…
      <img src="http://12v.org/urs/OES2AvusOnRareS2Sedan.jpg"&gt;

      Reply
  56. Alff Avatar
    Alff

    Here are some wheels that don't do it for me…
    <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/camarosteelie1_580.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. Sky_Render Avatar
      Sky_Render

      That whole car does nothing for me.

      Reply
    2. JayP2112 Avatar
      JayP2112

      That's the pic I took and submitted to AB. They got some mileage out of that…

      Reply
  57. labcoatguy Avatar
    labcoatguy

    Saab Klingon 3-spokes. Rollin' on bat'leths.
    <img src=http://pic.armedcats.net/l/la/labcoatguy/2013/02/15/klingon_viggen.jpg>

    Reply
  58. Preludacris Avatar
    Preludacris

    <img src="http://imageshack.us/a/img233/1668/dsc0184xx650.jpg&quot; width="600">
    Honestly there's a good reason nobody said Honda yet, but they do have some wheels that give a nice look when applied to an older version of the same model.
    Photo: preludepower.com member street_ride14

    Reply
    1. FuzzyPlushroom Avatar
      FuzzyPlushroom

      I like these, too…
      <img src="http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/3/2988/3481/32469240002_large.jpg&quot; width=600>

      Reply
      1. Preludacris Avatar
        Preludacris

        GSR blades! Work on EVERYTHING!
        <img src="http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k193/88LXi68/Pic242-1.jpg&quot; width=600>

        Reply
        1. FuzzyPlushroom Avatar
          FuzzyPlushroom

          [youtube Iof5pRAIZmw http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iof5pRAIZmw youtube]

          Reply
  59. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
    Peter Tanshanomi

    Time for me to trot out my EXA fetish again. Still like these wheels.
    <img src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/1983-1984-NISSAN-PULSAR-1982-1983-1984-SENTRA-MAG-ALUMINUM-ALLOY-WHEEL-NEW-NOS-/14/!Bng0hewBGk~$%28KGrHqQH-DoEts!!82Z8BLjwZ9qBkQ~~_10.JPG">
    <img src="http://hooniverse.info/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Scan3.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
      Peter Tanshanomi

      On the other end of the Nissan spectrum, these are pretty yummy.
      <img src="http://images.cardekho.com/car-images/carexteriorimages/large/Nissan/Nissan-370Z/nissan-370z-wheels-042.jpg&quot; width="400">

      Reply
  60. miki Avatar
    miki

    Lancia Delta Integrale
    <img src="http://www.bestautophoto.com/images/lancia-delta-integrale-02.jpg&quot; width="600">
    Fiat Panda "Italia 90" Special Edition
    <img src="http://ranwhenparkeddotnet.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/panda-italia-90.jpg&quot; width="600">

    Reply
    1. Sjalabais Avatar
      Sjalabais

      My mom had a Panda once. It rusted from the inside out and from the outside in, of course. So when these two trends met, the thing folded.
      Those wheels are probably the only aerodynamic element on the whole car.

      Reply
  61. richdelish Avatar
    richdelish

    Kinda partial…I've had the '01 SE, and I'm currently in a red '10 PRHT. Correctness ftw!
    <img src="http://www.carbuffs.com/miata91ext1.jpg"&gt;
    <img src="http://www.mx5world.com/pictures/67149/2001_Mazda_Miata_Special_Edition_000.jpg"&gt;
    <img src="http://auto.ocregister.com/files/2010/03/2010miata1.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  62. sohc Avatar
    sohc

    <img src='http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/images/wheels/85_Ranger-rim.JPG'&gt;

    Reply
    1. sohc Avatar
      sohc

      84 deep dish option compliments of "the ranger station.

      Reply
      1. JayP2112 Avatar
        JayP2112

        With faux hub locker centercap!

        Reply
  63. brisbrd Avatar
    brisbrd

    I used to really like Sebring LXi wheels
    <img src="http://images.autoshopper.com/fullsizephoto.aspx?state=DE&dealerid=3731&image=91731742-1.jpg"&gt;
    I love SPEC B wheels
    <img src="http://www.autoblog.com/media/2006/04/spec-b-front-nose-closeup-resized.JPG"&gt;
    And there's a lot I would do for Vauxhall Monaro wheels
    <img src="http://www.modifiedcars.com/pix/cars_large/16944_7481.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  64. stigshift Avatar
    stigshift

    No mention of Ferrari's Borrani wires or the drop-dead cool Pontiac 8-lugs? For shame….

    Reply
  65. JayP2112 Avatar
    JayP2112

    Speedlines meant business:
    <img src="http://www.autometrix.co.uk/images/classifieds/SEP07/IMGP0210.jpg&quot; width="600">
    <img src="http://www.audi80typ89.de/images/hoermaenaudi80.jpg&quot; width="600">

    Reply
    1. FuzzyPlushroom Avatar
      FuzzyPlushroom

      I dunno who downvoted you (it wasn't me! You're back at +1 now), but I sort of see why… these always look undersized to me, whatever size they are. Still badass, though.

      Reply
      1. JayP2112 Avatar
        JayP2112

        Those may have been 15"?
        But remember back then, we were all lusting over 60 series tires. Low enough to look cool but tall enough to play rally-boy.

        Reply
        1. pogokat Avatar
          pogokat

          have always loved these as well

          Reply
  66. CeRuLeaNBLu Avatar
    CeRuLeaNBLu

    I've got to go with Lamborghini Reventon wheels. I'm a sucker for carbon fiber and also the "stealth fighter" look, and these utilize both.
    <img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/cars/1/0/J/6/1/bw_08reventon_wheel.jpg&quot; width="600">

    Reply
  67. RahRahRecords Avatar
    RahRahRecords

    enough of these alloys, here's a hubcap
    <img src="http://www.jazcomputersolutions.com/autoparts/classic/auction1437%20(1).jpg">
    1957 Dodge Lancer

    Reply
  68. craigsu Avatar
    craigsu

    Since Alpina is officially recognized as a manufacturer I've got to go with their 20-spoke designs.
    <img src="http://www.cardotcom.com/photos/cars01/2011-bmw-alpina-b7/alpinab7-01-m.jpg&quot; width="600" border="0" style="border:none;" alt=" " />
    <img src="http://www.alpina-automobiles.com/fileadmin/user_upload/website/IMAGES/content/parts_accessory/wheels_alpina/7series/ALPINA_dynamic_7erF01_01.jpg&quot; width="600" border="0" style="border:none;" alt=" " />

    Reply
  69. Stevan Avatar
    Stevan

    I've always liked the mid 2000 745 rims:
    <img src="http://i913.photobucket.com/albums/ac340/haveatom/bmw745rim.jpg&quot;

    Reply
  70. Steven Avatar
    Steven

    I've always liked the mid 2000 745 rims:
    <img src="http://i913.photobucket.com/albums/ac340/haveatom/bmw745rim.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  71. mohammed khan Avatar
    mohammed khan

    The 10 spoke on the Dodge Mirada .www.andysautosport.com/images/vehicle_top/dodge_mirada.jpg

    Reply
  72. BJulio Avatar
    BJulio

    Alfa Romeo 159 TI trim wheels
    <img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3254/5776117595_ab689d8ae2_z.jpg&quot; width="400">

    Reply