This distinctive rear design was continued on the Mark series, including the Mark VIII coupe that was produced through 1998. Modern use Contemporary examples of continental kits are sometimes found on old and newer customized automobiles including late-model Lincoln Continental cars that never included a factory design or option. It has become an accessory that typifies "the spirit" of the 1950s. After-market continental kits are available for customization of 200 different automobile models. Some after-market applications may not enhance the design of the car. Continental kits and trunk lid add-on spare tire trim were also made popular by the garish pimpmobile era of the 1970s and featured in "Super Fly" movies. Continental kits and simulated spare tires were also featured in some of the transformations done on the Pimp My Ride show. Continental tires are known as 'fifth wheels' in hip hop slang. For example, in the Houston hip-hop culture, "slabs" feature a rear-mounted wheel that has been "cut in half and enclosed in a fiberglass casing." Numerous compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) models include an external rear-mounted spare tire from the factory. Accessory spare tire mounts that fit into a car's tow hitch are also available. Recreational vehicles may also have a spare tire on the rear. The wheel and tire combination may be exposed or covered with different materials that may have logos or other designs. These rear spare tire mounts are no longer described as a continental tire. Moreover, manufacturers have improved the packaging to mount spare tires under the car or cargo area floor. The externally rear-mounted tire appears on Jeep Wrangler and Mercedes-Benz G-Class vehicles to facilitate easy access when off-road. See also Fender skirts Whitewall tire Spare wheel cover References External links Automotive styling features Automotive accessories Tires Vehicle modifications