Well there’s no doubt that the tried & true 15” Magnum 500 chromed steel wheel with BFG RWL tires works on these cars, but I was burning out on seeing myself coming & going with that combo. So I set out to find something new and different and it took quite a while to make a decision on the right wheel for my Cougar. I even returned the 1st set that I bought after having them here in person and thinking they just weren’t really what I was going for plus I didn’t ‘love’ them which I think you should. Anyhow, thought I’d share some photos/info so others can see how different wheel/tire combos work on these cars, as well as what a difference they make in your car’s look and stance.
Decided on the Legendary Wheel Co. which by default also gives you perfect fitment specs for these cars and with a super high-quality build & finish. so then started narrowing down to a few styles I liked best as they have alot of designs to choose from. Ultimately went with the GT9, a modern replica/interpretation of the 1969 Shelby GT350 wheel which originally only came in a natural finish. I like this wheel because it has inspiration from the Magnum 500 and also the old-school Torq Thrust but with a fresh, modern take & offered in 17” size which is my personal upper limit zone for most classic cars wheel look. As well, the high-quality shiny machined aluminum finish really adds to the car in a better way for me than the chrome plated steel did.
From 3 finish options, I chose the charcoal inserts color which is actually on backorder in my size until at least August but I was able to locate possibly the last set left out there on the shelf in 17x7 (x4) knowing I didn’t want to run staggered. personally love how the high-gloss charcoal accent works with the gold/black combo on my cat. And it was good news that my $185 SD walking cat center caps purchased prior for the Magnum 500s were going to work again on the GT9s with an extended adapter backplate.
Had wanted to run redlines here, but just couldn’t justify an extra $1,600 on the tires when that $$ is better spent going to other things this Cougar needs. So instead, next will test out a red rim-stripe, which I’ve seen done very well and looking great on several classics out there.
This stuff is obviously very subjective but hope you all like the fresh & clean new look. Heres some pics, including the 1st one ‘before’ for ref, let me know what you think. Mark~
17”x7” 4.25”bs 235/45/17 [previous setup: 15”x7” 4.25bs, 225/60/15]
And yes if you caught those rusty drums showing thru, I already shot them in fresh black yesterday
