There's no question about it — one of the most important parts of any classic car project is choosing the right set of wheels. First of all, you've got to pick the right style. Do you want vintage rallye wheels, classic mag five-spokes, or something more aggressive and modern? Then, you've got to select the right bolt pattern and size, and make sure the offset and backspacing are correct for your vehicle. However, there's one more crucial point to consider before making your decision — wheel weight. A set of lightweight wheels can noticeably improve your car's performance.

No matter what your automotive background is, the term "SS" is immediately recognizable as a sign of high performance. Super Sport—it's a name that means exactly what it says. Everyone knows and loves the Camaro SS, Nova SS, Chevelle SS, and El Camino SS, but none of these models were the first to bear the designation. In fact, it was a model that many at the time would have considered to be more luxury cruiser than sports coupe—the Impala.

The perfect set of wheels is an essential element of any classic car build, but choosing wheels isn't always as easy as it might seem. There are many technical variables that must be considered, including bolt pattern, diameter, width, backspacing, and offset. Once you've established the wheel specs you need, you'll have to shop for an appropriate set of wheels with an appealing design and finish. In this article, we'll provide some info and diagrams to help you answer the question "what are wheel backspacing and offset?"

The term "torture test" is thrown around a lot in the automotive aftermarket, but what does it really mean? A torture-tested part is used in an extreme scenario that shows what it's truly made of, and whether it can stand up to the abuse. Here at Classic Industries, we like seeing our parts pushed to the limit on cutting-edge builds, so when PowerNation told us they wanted to try our Clear Vue valve covers on their 1000hp turbocharged LS engine build, we gladly accepted.

If you're anything like us, you didn't become a car guy overnight. You probably grew up around cars, and they've been a part of your life since childhood. A true passion for classic cars often begins while wrenching in the garage with Dad, cruising the streets with your best friends, or blasting down the drag strip on weekends. Then, over many years, it becomes an integral part of who you are.

The term "survivor" invokes images of doing battle and coming out unscathed, against all the odds. Similarly, when applied to a classic car, the term "survivor" indicates a vehicle that has endured the passing of many miles and decades in near-untouched factory condition. These unlikely survivors still look brand-new, without the aid of extensive restoration work.

 
Here at Classic Industries, we love sleeper vehicle builds—even the name evokes mystery. Much like a sleeper cell of operatives that infiltrates a bigger group, waiting for the right time to strike, sleeper cars are perfect for hiding in plain sight. The dented beater that rolls up to you at a stop light might just blast by you with tires ablaze when you least expect it. This unexpected characteristic never fails to keep things interesting.