The Scott Drake Wheels Legacy
Scott Drake has established itself as a premier manufacturer of restoration and enhancement parts for classic Ford vehicles, with particular expertise in Mustang components. Their wheel division represents the pinnacle of authentic Ford styling combined with modern manufacturing techniques, creating products that satisfy both purists seeking exact reproductions and enthusiasts looking for period-correct upgrades with enhanced performance characteristics.
What distinguishes Scott Drake in the crowded wheel market is their unwavering commitment to historical accuracy and detail. Their engineering team meticulously studies original Ford factory wheels, blueprints, and documentation to ensure their reproductions capture every nuance of the original designs. This dedication to authenticity has made Scott Drake the go-to source for concours-quality restorations and premium classic Ford builds.
Scott Drake Wheel Collections
Classic Mustang Reproduction Wheels
Scott Drake's flagship wheel collection features exact reproductions of iconic Ford Mustang wheels from the 1960s and early 1970s. These include the legendary styled steel wheels, Magnum 500s, and GT wheels that defined the golden era of American muscle cars. Available in original diameters of 14" and 15" with period-correct widths, these wheels are manufactured using original-style stamping processes and materials to ensure authentic appearance. Finishes include chrome, painted, and polished options that precisely match factory specifications. Every detail, from the correct number of ventilation slots to the exact contour of the center cap recess, is faithfully reproduced to satisfy even the most discriminating concours judges.
Enhanced Classic Series
For enthusiasts seeking the classic look with modern performance benefits, Scott Drake's Enhanced Classic Series offers period-correct designs with subtle improvements. These wheels maintain the iconic styling of vintage Ford wheels but incorporate modern alloys and manufacturing techniques for improved strength and reduced weight. Available in both original diameters and slightly larger 16" to 17" sizes to accommodate modern tire options, the Enhanced Classic Series allows for better brake clearance while preserving the vintage aesthetic. Finishes include traditional chrome and polished options alongside contemporary treatments like anthracite with machined lips that complement both restored and restomodded classic Fords.
Shelby Special Edition Series
The Shelby Special Edition Series pays homage to the legendary Shelby Mustangs with reproductions of their distinctive wheel designs. From the iconic 10-spoke wheels of the GT350 to the magnesium-style wheels of the GT500, these reproductions capture the racing heritage that made Shelby variants so desirable. Available in both authentic 15" diameters and modernized 17" versions for enhanced performance, these wheels feature correct Shelby-specific details and emblems. Finishes include the characteristic silver with machined lip, anthracite, and special edition color treatments that echo the racing liveries of historic Shelby race cars.
Modern Heritage Collection
Scott Drake's Modern Heritage Collection bridges classic Ford styling with contemporary wheel technology. These wheels draw inspiration from iconic Ford designs but incorporate modern multi-piece construction, concave profiles, and larger diameters ranging from 17" to 20". While not direct reproductions, they maintain design language that complements classic Ford vehicles while allowing for larger modern tires, improved brake clearance, and enhanced handling characteristics. The Modern Heritage Collection is ideal for restomod projects and builds that blend vintage aesthetics with modern performance upgrades.
Key Features of Scott Drake Wheels
All Scott Drake wheels incorporate several standout features that ensure superior quality and authenticity:
- Historical Accuracy: Meticulously researched designs based on original Ford specifications and blueprints
- Premium Materials: High-grade alloys selected to match or exceed the performance of original equipment
- Authentic Finishes: Period-correct plating, polishing, and paint processes that replicate factory appearances
- Correct Emblems and Markings: Properly licensed Ford and Shelby logos and accurate part number stampings where applicable
- Modern Manufacturing: Contemporary production techniques that maintain appearance while enhancing structural integrity
- Extensive Testing: Each design undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure proper fitment and performance
- Complete Packages: Available with correct center caps, lug nuts, and trim rings for a complete restoration solution
Selecting the Right Scott Drake Wheels
When choosing Scott Drake wheels for your classic Ford, consider these important factors:
Restoration Goals: For concours-level restorations, select from the Classic Reproduction Series that exactly matches your vehicle's original equipment. For drivers seeking improved performance while maintaining a period-correct look, the Enhanced Classic Series offers subtle upgrades without compromising authenticity.
Tire Compatibility: Consider your tire preferences when selecting wheel diameter and width. Original 14" and 15" diameters limit you to specialty classic tire sizes, while the Enhanced Classic and Modern Heritage collections in 16"+ diameters open up a wider range of modern high-performance tire options.
Brake Clearance: If your vehicle has been upgraded with modern brake components, verify spoke clearance, especially for vehicles with performance brake packages. The Modern Heritage Collection is specifically designed to accommodate larger brake setups commonly used in restomod builds.
Authenticity Requirements: For judged shows and concours events, select wheels with correct date codes, markings, and finishing processes that match your vehicle's production specifications. Scott Drake's documentation can help verify period correctness for particular vehicle builds.
Key Takeaways
- Scott Drake specializes in authentic reproduction and enhanced wheels for classic Ford vehicles, particularly Mustangs
- Their wheel lineup includes Classic Reproduction, Enhanced Classic, Shelby Special Edition, and Modern Heritage collections
- All wheels feature meticulous attention to historical accuracy and detail
- Available in both original diameters (14"-15") and modern upgraded sizes (16"-20")
- Options range from exact reproductions for concours restorations to enhanced designs for restomod projects
- Complete packages include correct center caps, trim rings, and hardware for authentic presentation
- Each wheel undergoes extensive quality control to ensure proper fitment and performance
For enthusiasts seeking to enhance their classic Ford with wheels that honor its heritage while potentially improving performance, Scott Drake Wheels delivers options that respect tradition while embracing appropriate modern improvements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Scott Drake wheels exact replicas of original Ford wheels?
Yes, Scott Drake's Classic Reproduction Series wheels are manufactured to be exact replicas of original Ford factory wheels. The company utilizes original blueprints, factory specifications, and thorough research to ensure every detail matches the original equipment, from spoke design and ventilation slots to center cap fitment and finish characteristics. These wheels are designed to pass scrutiny at even the most stringent concours events.
Can Scott Drake wheels accommodate modern brake upgrades?
While Scott Drake's exact reproduction wheels maintain original dimensions that may limit brake clearance, their Enhanced Classic and Modern Heritage collections are specifically designed to provide additional clearance for modern brake upgrades. These wheels maintain period-correct styling but offer larger diameters (16"-20") and modified spoke designs to accommodate performance brake packages commonly used in restomod builds. Always verify specific clearance requirements for your brake setup before ordering.
Do Scott Drake wheels come with all necessary components for installation?
Scott Drake offers both individual wheels and complete packages depending on your needs. Their complete wheel kits typically include the wheels, correct center caps, appropriate trim rings (for styled steel reproductions), and sometimes lug nuts that match original specifications. For specific factory-correct packages, they often offer date-coded components that match particular production years. Individual components are also available separately for those who need replacement parts.
What warranty does Scott Drake provide for their wheels?
Scott Drake typically offers a limited warranty against manufacturing defects, usually for one year from the date of purchase. This covers structural issues related to materials and workmanship under normal use conditions. As with most wheel warranties, damage from road hazards, improper installation, or racing applications is generally not covered. For specific warranty terms, it's best to consult with your authorized dealer at the time of purchase.
Are Scott Drake wheels suitable for daily driving or just for show cars?
While Scott Drake wheels are popular for show cars due to their historical accuracy, they are engineered for real-world use as well. Their reproduction wheels meet or exceed the specifications of the original factory wheels they replicate, making them suitable for regular driving. For daily drivers or vehicles that see more aggressive use, the Enhanced Classic and Modern Heritage collections offer additional performance benefits with improved alloys and construction techniques while maintaining period-appropriate styling.