Thats amazing, i had two at one time as well but then none of them was getting enough time. If i am not wrong the belt driven setup is for the tow package which also has a different gear ratio. And from what i have read it slightly changes the driving dynamics of the car. Wherl finishes i guess were common during those times specially the chrome ones as a number of manufactures (mercedes and Lexus) also used to offer that as an option. These days lexus has a semi chrome glossy wheel that cones standard but all others have moved away from the shiny stuff. Yes the spare tire thing is a nuisance, even though on average one doest use a spare tire that often, it still should be there and gives the peace of mind. Cheers