"Hi,

I read a posting on this site about wire wheels. I own a 1972 Ghibli SS #AM115/49*2370*. It is being restored and will be completed Winter 2006-2007. I live in New York City and I drive my car about 4,000-5,000 miles a year (12 months a year but not in the winter with water on the ground because salt is used to melt the snow here.)

My car came with 4 bolt Borrani wire wheels. They are servicable. I was quoted US $500 per wheel to rebuild and rechrome. I instead chose to buy a set of new Dayton bolt on wires. They have chrome rims and stainless spokes. I drive the car and the people at Dayton say chroming weakens the wires and I think the chrome wires are not guaranteed.

I purchased these wheels about 2 years ago and drove the car with them, no problems. I did purchase 16 inch diameter wheels that are 1/2 inch wider in the rear and I think the fronts are also wider.

The cost of these four wheels non-chrome today is probably less than $1,800. I think these wheels look much better. They have a much more open look due to the extra diameter and because the center hub is about 2 inches less in diameter.

The Borranis have a "Bolt circle" the same as mine, but the Borranis have an additional one inch wide piece of metal around the bolt circle, probably for strength. I notice no difference in ride and handling and I have 60 series contemporary tires fitted.

My car has a few minor updates for looks and drivability. I had a bare metal restoration done and it was quite rusty. I had both the ugly front and rear side marker lights removed. Under the hood I had an MSD electronic ignition to replace the original Maserati CD ignition and the plugs have not yet fouled even in city traffic. I cannot compare this to the original ignition because the original did not work when I purchased the car. The MSD only cost about $500 installed.

I also had the underhood accessories updated. I had a Japanese alternator put in as well as a rotary air conditioner compressor. And the greatest improvement, I now have a belt driven water pump on the car!!!!!

My car is taken care of by Vantage Motors in Stamford, Connecticut. If anyone wants additional details or possibly photos I will be happy to obtain them.

Elliot."