Most of the time wheels have intricate details that are easily covered by paint if you aren't careful. If I don't have to do a drastic color change like put a light color on a wheel that is molded in black, in which case I would prime it with Tamiya white primer, if not I spray straight on to the plastic even if using automotive lacquer. Light coats will no damage the plastic and the details will be crisp. Acrylics work great to because of the amount they shrink when dry.
I always keep a good assortment of metalizer paints on hand in case I need to mix a color like you're looking for, of course you can do the same with acrylics.
Tamiya also has a bronze and titanium in the bottle acrylics you might like.
