Wheels and tyres

Stylish and distinctive, an ST220 doesn’t look quite right unless it’s wearing its factory 16-spoke 7.5x18in alloys and 225/40R18 tyres. Unfortunately, the original diamond- cut finish looked great for only a matter of months before the lacquer peeled away and corrosion took hold from underneath.

Refurbishing the wheels properly is an expensive, expert task, but powder- coating, respraying or replacing is an easier solution. And, while rims from other Ford models will fit with ease, an ST220 on Zetec S or Focus ST 18s isn’t to everyone’s tastes.

That said, Focus RS Mk2 19in alloys give a fabulous OE-plus effect, especially on a lowered ST220. They retain the traditional ST multispoke style, but dramatically fill the wheelarches too. RS Mk2 rims have a 63mm offset rather than the Mondeo’s 52.5mm, so you’ll have to fit some 15mm or 20mm spacers to make them fit and 235/35x19 tyres.

Finally, if you’re choosing aftermarket wheels ( for looks, or for a stronger, lighter rim), it’s worth noting that an ET45 to ET35 offset should be fine in place of the stock 52.5mm, with the lower number poking out and bulking up the arches that bit better.