The History and Appeal of the Iconic Volk Mag Blue Wheel

The Iconic Volk Mag Blue Wheel

In the world of aftermarket wheels, Volk Mag Blue is one of the most iconic and recognizable designs. This classic wheel has been around since the 1980s and continues to be sought after by enthusiasts today. But what exactly makes the Volk Mag Blue so special? Let's take a closer look at the history and appeal of this legendary wheel.

The Origins of Volk Mag Blue

The Volk Mag wheel dates back to the late 1970s when it was introduced by wheel manufacturer Image Wheels. The company was started by a group of enthusiasts who wanted to create high-quality aftermarket wheels. The Volk Mag set itself apart with its iconic five-spoke design and use of cast aluminum instead of steel. This made the wheels lighter yet very strong.

The wheels were available in various colors but blue became the most popular. In the 1980s, Volkswagen enthusiasts started painting the center sections of their steel wheels blue to match the look of the Volk Mag. This created a trend of blue-accented wheels on VW and other import tuner cars.

The custom blue color eventually became so associated with the Volk Mag that Image Wheels started offering it as a factory finish. They called it Volk Mag Blue and it became the wheel's signature look. By the late 80s, Volk Mag Blue was being spotted on all types of import and domestic tuner cars at car shows and races.

What Makes Volk Mag Blue So Iconic

There are a few key factors that have contributed to the Volk Mag Blue's enduring popularity and status as an automotive icon.

• Its classic five-spoke design is simple yet eye-catching. The spokes extend all the way to the outer lip of the wheel for a very clean look.
• The blue paint job contrasted nicely against the polished aluminum lip. This drew attention to the wheels and gave cars a customized appearance.
• The color blue has a long association with Volkswagen and Germany. Using it on the wheels of VWs and other German cars united the colors of the flag.
• In the 80s and 90s, blue was a popular color in import tuner car culture. Volk Mag Blue fit perfectly with the styles and trends of that era.
• The wheels were affordable and available in many common sizes. This made them accessible and easy to mount on all types of cars.

Beyond aesthetics, the Volk Mag Blue was also respected as a well-engineered wheel. The one-piece cast construction was strong for performance driving. And the use of aluminum instead of steel reduced unsprung weight for better handling.

The Revival of Volk Mag Blue

Like many tuner car styles, the popularity of Volk Mag Blue wheels faded in the 2000s. But in recent years, the vintage tuner look has been making a comeback. A new generation of enthusiasts are rediscovering iconic JDM wheels like the Volk Mag Blue.

The renewed interest has led some wheel companies to re-issue Volk Mag Blue wheels or offer similar designs as homages. These new wheels replicate the classic five-spoke styling and blue accent colors. Now it's possible to get the iconic Volk Mag Blue look on new production wheels.

In addition to new re-issued wheels, many enthusiasts are also hunting down original vintage Volk Mag Blue wheels. Clean originals in good condition have become sought after collector's items. Some rare sizes can fetch hefty prices due to their demand and limited availability.

Fitting Volk Mag Blue on Today's Cars

Volk Mag Blue wheels are still a great way to add vintage style to modern import tuner cars. Many older JDM and Euro classics like Nissan 240SXs, BMW E30s, and VW Golfs are being built with period correct upgrades like Volk Mags.

For more modern cars, Volk Mag Blue wheels can be used to create an old school/new school combo. Their retro styling contrasts nicely with the sleek designs of today's import cars. Wheel widths and fitments can be adjusted as needed to properly fit performance tire sizes.

To keep the look authentic, additional wheel details like the chrome lug nuts and center caps should be sourced. Modern wheel tech like powdercoating can also be used to increase durability without changing the original blue coloring. Proper maintenance and cleaning will keep them looking their best.

The Future of Volk Mag Blue

Over 40 years since its introduction, the iconic Volk Mag Blue design is still eliciting excitement among auto enthusiasts. This demonstrates the timeless appeal of these classic wheels.

The Volk Mag Blue has gone from being the defining mod of its era to a retro throwback style today. But its ability to transcend times and trends also makes it likely to remain cool for future generations. The Volk Mag Blue has already achieved true icon status in the world of aftermarket wheels.

New wheel designs will come and go, but the blue five spokes that started it all will remain eternal. For wheel enthusiasts, Volk Mag Blue will always represent style, performance, and nostalgia. Its legacy is assured thanks to decades of tasteful cars wearing these classics with pride.

FAQs

When were Volk Mag wheels first introduced?

Volk Mag wheels were first introduced in the late 1970s by wheel manufacturer Image Wheels.

Why is the blue color so iconic on the Volk Mag?

In the 1980s, Volkswagen enthusiasts started painting their steel wheels blue to match the Volk Mag look. This created a trend that led to the custom blue color becoming the Volk Mag's signature look.

What makes the Volk Mag Blue design so special?

The simple five-spoke design, contrasting blue paint, association with VW culture, popularity in the tuner scene, and affordability all contributed to the Volk Mag Blue becoming so iconic.

Are original Volk Mag Blue wheels still available?

Yes, original vintage Volk Mags are still found but clean examples have become collectible items that can be expensive due to limited availability.

Can Volk Mag Blue wheels fit on modern cars?

Yes, Volk Mag Blue wheels can be made to properly fit modern cars using adjusted widths and fitments. Their vintage look contrasts nicely with today's import tuner cars.