If you’re the proud owner of a Mercedes-Benz W126 equipped with iconic AMG wheels, understanding the nuances of center caps is crucial for maintaining both authenticity and aesthetic appeal. This guide will delve into the world of Mercedes Center Caps specifically designed for various AMG wheel types that were popular on the W126 chassis.
Decoding Center Caps for W126 AMG Wheels
Navigating the options for Mercedes center caps can be slightly complex, especially when considering the different styles and generations of AMG wheels available for the W126. Let’s break down the center cap compatibility based on the wheel type:
Five Spoke (Penta Style) Wheels
The renowned Five Spoke, often referred to as “Penta” wheels, are a signature AMG design. For the W126, these wheels generally come in sizes such as 8×16 ET11, 9×16 ET0, and 10×16 ET -12.7 (primarily for widebody models). Importantly, the good news is that the center caps for both Generation I (Gen I) and Generation II (Gen II) Five Spoke wheels in these W126-specific sizes are interchangeable. While numerous variations of five-spoke wheels exist, these sizes remain the most sought-after for W126 enthusiasts.
Aero I Wheels
Aero I wheels present a different scenario. Predominantly found in 8×17 ET11 size for W126 Generation II cars, these wheels have a key distinction in their center cap compatibility based on the AMG logo. There are two versions of Aero I wheels: those produced before the AMG-Mercedes merger and those after. The pre-merger wheels feature the classic AMG logo, while post-merger versions display the “////AMG” logo. Therefore, when sourcing Mercedes center caps for Aero I wheels, it’s essential to identify which logo your wheels bear to ensure a perfect match. Notably, Aero I wheels were also manufactured for the W124 chassis with an ET28 offset, but this guide focuses on W126 applications.
OZ Racing 3 Piece Wheels
OZ Racing 3 piece wheels represent another distinct style within the AMG wheel lineup for the W126 Gen II models. These wheels typically feature a staggered setup, often with 8.5×17 ET18 for the front and 10×17 ET17 or 10×17 ET5 (widebody) for the rear. All OZ Racing wheels produced for the W126 era carried the pre-merger AMG logo. Consequently, when seeking Mercedes center caps for OZ Racing wheels, you should look for caps compatible with the pre-merger AMG logo style. Similar to Aero I wheels, OZ wheels were also produced for W124 (ET28 offset) and R129 chassis (using the same W126 offsets), but center cap considerations for those are outside the scope of this W126-focused guide.
Important Considerations
It’s vital to remember that this information pertains specifically to the most popular AMG wheel types and sizes fitted to the Mercedes-Benz W126. Numerous other variations of Five Spoke and Aero wheels in 15″ and 16″ diameters exist, which are not covered here. Center cap compatibility for those less common wheels may differ.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes based on available knowledge regarding Mercedes center caps for W126 AMG wheels. Always verify compatibility with your specific wheels before purchasing center caps. This article does not constitute an offer to sell or provide center caps.
