Car Talk: 8 of the weirdest wheel designs ever

What's the weirdest looking wheel you've ever seen?

When looking at a car, one of the first things people instantly notice or look at are the wheels. Not surprising, really, as this has a lot to do with determining the overall look of any vehicle. So much, that they can either significantly enhance or undermine its overall appearance.

A stylish set of wheels mounted on an average car can elevate its look, making it exceptional and upscale. On the other hand, poorly designed wheels that don't match the vehicle can instantly ruin the look of even the most beautiful car. Achieving a timeless wheel design doesn’t come easy, as it's often a case of hit or miss.

In theory, wheel design should prioritize aesthetics while also considering functionality in relation to the vehicle's intended purpose. But among the hundreds of timeless wheel designs out there, I’m sure you’ve laid eyes on a select few that stand out for all the wrong reasons. These oddball wheel designs are easy to spot and surely hard to miss on the road, often leaving you either puzzled or wishing there was a way to unsee them. As proof, here are some of the weirdest wheel designs we could find that will leave you asking just one question: why?

1. Autopista DRY Wheels

Here’s an unusual-looking wheel developed by Autopista for the 88-’91 Toyota Soarer GZ20. The design is so uncommon that the wheel openings make it look like an old tape or computer reel. Design-wise, it actually serves a purpose by allowing it to adopt an asymmetrical wheel design. By offsetting the wheel spoke holes closer to one hub flange, the design balances spoke tension between the drive and non-drive sides of the wheel, which can improve the car’s handling and performance. Another unique feature is the square-shaped, semi-clear wheel center caps that cover the lug nuts and are held on with four small screws.

2. RONAL URS Teddy Bear Wheels

German alloy wheel manufacturer RONAL is renowned for iconic designs such as the R9 AMG Penta wheels and the multi-spoke R8, a local favorite among small-body Corollas during the nineties. However, they’re equally known for their whimsical teddy bear URS wheel. The name was inspired by the Russian word for 'bear' and by Ursa Major, which is one of the most striking constellations in the night sky, also known as The Great Bear.

The playful bear design wasn’t just for show as it cleverly formed the wheel’s six spokes through its ears, arms, and paws. Black-painted debossed details on the eyes, ears, nose, and paws added contrast and character. The rounded belly-like center cap featured a unique lock mechanism that resembled a belly button. As cute as it looked, the design was undeniably unique and somewhat polarizing. Like it or not, animal-inspired wheel designs remain a rare sight in the world of aftermarket wheels.

3. Daisy Alloy Wheels

The odd floral design stems from the enduring connection between the Volkswagen Beetle and the flower power era of the Sixties. Upon the introduction of the modern Beetle in 1998, aftermarket wheel brands like Tansy and Sport Edition embraced this nostalgic spirit by creating daisy-themed wheels. Featuring a seven-spoke white 'petal' design and a cheerful yellow center cap, the wheels resembled a daisy in full bloom. Thankfully, this unusual design didn’t catch on, being mainly confined to Beetle owners who wanted to give their cars a distinct, retro flair, which is a nod to the peace and love culture the Beetle is known for.

4. Forgiato Wheels Parlaro

This unconventionally weird design from American wheel manufacturer Forgiato blurs the line between functionality and form. At first glance, the Parlaro wheel may seem almost impractical, supported by just three spokes. It consists of two slender ones and a single oversized spoke that also incorporates the bolt holes. Despite its delicate appearance, the Parlaro is anything but fragile. According to Forgiato, they employ a flat forging process, crafting each wheel from a single piece of 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum alloy to ensure exceptional strength and performance.

5. Arelli Wheels Rook Assassyn 

Manufactured during the late nineties in 20 and 22-inch wheel diameter fitments, the design features a swirling mercury-like, two-spoke design that’s finished entirely in chrome. The outlandish shape of the spokes makes the wheel look highly unusual and out of this world. So much in fact that there’s nothing quite like it. Apart from the uncanny design, this includes the unconventional spelling of the wheel model name “Assassyn”, which is often mistaken for a misspelling.  

6. Status Grinder 

Here’s another odd-looking, 2-spoke wheel that was manufactured by aftermarket wheel specialist, Status. Available in large wheel diameters starting at 20 inches, the Grinder featured a detachable panel that fully covered the spokes, stealthily concealing the lug nuts. Secured with Allen head screws on either side, it created the illusion of a lug-less wheel while exposing much of the brake rotors and discs. The design may appear lightweight, but the unsupported parts of the wheel, such as the outer lip, can compromise its structural integrity. This makes the wheel more susceptible to damage, leading to a bent wheel.

7. Forgiato Wheels Radurra 

Unique is more like an understatement for this wheel, as it would be hard to spot another one like it. If the look of transparent and seemingly floating wheels is what you’re looking for, then this one is it. From afar, it looks as if the wheels are floating due to the transparent wheel centers made from a thick slab of polycarbonate. Using a technique known as 'bezel setting’, the wheel center is slightly larger than the rim and is held in place purely by pressure. It's unconventionally weird and looks like it could crack at any moment it hits a huge pothole. But there's no denying that it does an excellent job of showing off an aftermarket big brake kit.

8. Lenso Wheels Las Vegas Roulette 

Talk about taking a gamble in style, as exemplified by the Las Vegas Roulette wheel by Lenso. Specially designed in 2007 for the SEMA Show, this one-of-a-kind wheel featured a roulette wheel motif, complete with a Louis Vuitton-style leather pattern and rhinestone-studded Lenso lettering. This is definitely a high-roller design that arguably belongs in a casino rather than a 4-wheeled vehicle. With little information or imagery available, it’s very likely that this wheel concept never made it past the show floor. And for good reason.

Evolution of Wheel Design 

Wheel design has certainly come a long way, from the simple wooden spokes to the high-tech, futuristic designs of today. Wheels have become an essential element of vehicle functionality and aesthetics that it influences a car’s overall appearance and performance. This has paved the way for the development of wheel designs that push the boundaries of art and engineering. Whether you find these wheels to be quite attractive or artistically challenged, there's no denying the creativity and audacity behind these designs. 

Did we miss something you think should be on this list? Add it in the comments section.