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Why are most Porsche facory wheels so heavy? My factory cup II's are heavy, I got some 18" twists that are heavier (but look better in my opinion). In my quest to simplify and add lightness I am looking for light weight, reasonable riced (relative right?) wheels. I know the MY02 wheels are probably the lightest factory 18" wheels. What are some other options I should look at? Fikse, BBS etc? I did search hoping there was a list as I know how diligent RL'ers are! In the past I have used OZ and the likes for various projects. Any input welcome.
They are heavy because they are cast Al-alloy. In order to make up for the strength deficiencies native in casting, more material must be added.
Lightest wheels are probably full carbon fiber. CF has its own problems with failure that propagates nearly instantaneously and heat dissipation. Forged Mg-alloy is probably the next lightest, but typically have a shorter service life than AL counterparts. In the more "mainstream" world of aluminum alloy, the lightest wheels are probably from BBS or Rays.
Needless to say, the question of "what wheels are best" cannot be answered in a few sentences.
Last edited by FrenchToast; 11-19-2020 at 05:51 PM.
Agreed, the OZ alleggeritas are Italian slippers compared to the factory boots. Just don’t hit any curbs or potholes in them.
having said that, I can definitely feel the nimbleness imparted by 6lb per corner reduction in unsprung, rotational mass (the worst kind)
At some point, there are diminishing returns, i.e. spending thousands more for carbon fiber to lose a few measly pounds.
MY02s are the OEM sweet spot, IMHO, as they are light and durable and easy to clean. Also cheap enough that if you kill one, replacements won't break the bank and are easy to source
Why are most Porsche facory wheels so heavy? My factory cup II's are heavy, I got some 18" twists that are heavier (but look better in my opinion). In my quest to simplify and add lightness I am looking for light weight, reasonable riced (relative right?) wheels. I know the MY02 wheels are probably the lightest factory 18" wheels. What are some other options I should look at? Fikse, BBS etc? I did search hoping there was a list as I know how diligent RL'ers are! In the past I have used OZ and the likes for various projects. Any input welcome.
Thanks
I thought the OEM Cup IIs (17 inch) wheels were about the same weight as the MY02 (18s)
Carbon Fiber are probably THE LIGHTEST, but certainly would cost a pretty penny and wouldn't be as durable for street use. As noted, MY02s are an excellent wheel, great classic look, reasonably light, and very easy to clean. my use is 100% street, so MY02s fit the bill nicely for my needs. jim dorociak is a rennlister that builds custom wheels, that I looked into years ago, and quite knowledgeable. (And some of the most gorgeous wheels I have laid eyes on to boot!) He could probably build something to your specifications.
Rays/Volk TE37's are one of the best wheels you can get in terms of lightness, strength, and simplicity to clean. They're pricey, though, and clash with the design language of the 993 (in my opinion). I love TE37's and have/had them on several of my cars.