Porsche 914-style wheel question

[ConsoleTVMan]

I like the looks of the 914-style wheels, and am thinking about putting them on my '71 Super.

CIP1 has two models I like. They are 5.5 inches wide:

http://www2.cip1.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=C13-9681

and this one

http://www2.cip1.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=C32-LIT413-B

They look alike to me, but one is 3.7 inch backspace and the other is 4.0 inch backspace. One has the EMPI logo on the page, the other doesn't.

My understanding of backspace is that 3.7 inch backspace will yield slightly more room on the inside of the wheel, and push the wheel slightly more out towards the fender than the 4.0 inch.

I am planning on lowering the front 2-3 inches with the Topline Superlow kit. And, will probably upgrade to front disk brakes at some point.

My questions are

1. do I understand backspace correctly? and,
2. Is there any reason I should choose one wheel over the other?

Any guidance is appreciated.

Thanks,

Bob

[TromBug]

I can't comment on the meaning of backspace, since I'm interested to know the definition too, but I can tell you that on my '78 Super, with front discs, I have the Empi 914 replicas (ordered from CIP1 as well), and they fit without rubbing with 195/65R15's. I have no spacers installed. I do think they rub a little when I turn the wheel ALL THE WAY to the right, but I've only heard a momentary sound once when doing a tight U turn on a small street.

That being said, I haven't lowered mine to that extent. It's only about an inch lower than stock in the front only.

I think I got the ones with the 3.7 inch backspace, since I remember I got the ones with the hardware included. That is, if they are really any different, and not just different kits with a lack of consistency in labelling by CIP1.

[ach60]

Years ago I studied all the 4 bolt wheels made to get the deepest back spacing I could get.
I bought American Eagle 2 Liter replicas they had the deepest back spacing.
I did this because most aftermarket wheels stick out badly on late Super Beetles.
At that time American Eagle was making most of the 4 lug wheels:
8 spokes, Riviera, and 2 Liter replicas, now EMPI seems to be trying to break the market.
I'd buy the American Eagle again rather than the EMPI.
_________________
Good Luck
Al

[ConsoleTVMan]

Thanks for the feedback, guys. This helps.

I traded email with the CIP1 helpdesk yesterday & while they did not answer all my questions, they did second the opinion that Super Beetles need more backspace.

TromBug -- any chance you can post a pic of your car? I would love to see what that wheel & tire combo looks like on the car.