Wheels are the only aftermarket upgrade that can improve a car’s style, handling, and resale value in one fell swoop.
The reasons for upgrading are therefore clear: a much cooler and more unique appearance for any car, at any price. New wheels will almost always look amazing, especially in a +1 or +2 jump in diameter.
Here are a few quick facts to consider about new wheels:
— OEM wheels are significantly stronger than most aftermarket products – in terms of long-term pothole resistance as well as the paint finish, etc.
— Much slimmer tire sizes, especially on luxury or sports cars, make even the strongest wheels susceptible to damage on the roads. A bent wheel is the most un-diagnosed car problem, but one that will drive you nuts once it starts making the car glide lump-ily down a smooth road.
— Most aftermarket wheels are designed to be cheap to buy and produce, with perhaps one tenth an OEM forged alloy;s strength. So there you are, a year later, with another bent pair of rims.
Solution?
Whenever doing a real wheel upgrade on a cherished sports or exotic car — go for the best possible quality and be willing to pay for it.
Even Kahn Design’s stunning wheel options – with prices to match when shipped from the UK to the U.S. – will almost always be significantly cheaper than an OEM replacement.
Estimated 18-inch Wheel Cost |
Low End Estimate – Per Wheel |
High End Estimate – Per Wheel |
Luxury Car OEM 18-inch Wheel Replacement |
$300 |
$4,000 |
Kahn Design 18-inch wheels shipped without tires |
$400 |
$2,000 |
Amazonor Discount Tire Wheels *(there is a catch) |
$140 |
$800 |
The cheap wheels are tempting, but not worth the trouble in most cases.
Summary: Go for the best replacements you can afford.
is a good option for classy folks in need of a vehicular makeover, as well as folks tired of driving around with pothole damage on their OEM wheels.
Here are four favorite styles from KAHN, the RS600, RS-L, RS-X 1922 and the Cosworth.
A Kahn Design – RS600 Wheels
A Kahn Design – Cosworth Wheels
A Kahn Design – RS-L Wheels
A Kahn Design – RS-X 1922 Wheels
KAHN Design – RS600 Wheels on Cars
KAHN Design – Cosworth Wheels on Cars
Tom Burkart is the founder and managing editor of Car-Revs-Daily.com, an innovative and rapidly-expanding automotive news magazine.
He holds a Journalism JBA degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Tom currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina with his two amazing dogs, Drake and Tank.
Mr. Burkart is available for all questions and concerns by email Tom(at)car-revs-daily.com.