I backed into a curb and ruined one of my OEM wheels, thinking about replacing it with a replica one. Does anyone out there have any experience with replica wheels? Are they exactly the same looking as the OEMs (finish and shine)? I wouldn't mind a replica wheel - just as long as they match with the rest of the OEM wheels.

Any input will be helpful.

This is the wheel I need (18"):



Thanks all!

 

Check out Hartmann Wheels

http://www.hartmannwheels.com/1-425-.../wheels/Audi/1

They make awesome replicas at good prices - no one will know one of your rims is a replica. I think I remember seeing your rim on the website too.

 

Whynot just get the rim refurbished, it will cost less than buying a replica. Also a replica may be heavierthan the standard wheel which could cause asymetrical handling.

 

Yeah, I would worry about the weight difference.



Cheers!

 

Oh, I didn't know there was a weight issue with replicas. But other than that, they look the same?

 

The weight issue is pretty major actually, so I would do your homework on that just as much if not more than similarity of the appearance. Usually factory whells are pretty light and I've heard some of the replicas, although great looking, are considerably heavier. A difference in 2-3 lbs of rotational mass will definitely be noticeable in the handling..... The folks that sell the Hartman whells could probably answer that, and I suggest you find that out before you buy...

Just my 2 cents...

 

interesting alloy is expensive at the moment so if its heavy then its worth more ( big wheel theft coming up ) but not for you standard guys/gals

 

The OEM 17" 16-spoke wheels on my '06 weigh about 27 lbs - not exactly "pretty light." They're now relegated to winter duty, and something lighter in a 17" will be used for the summer tires starting next spring.

BTW, Hartmann 17x7.5 B7 Sport-295 replicas (like those on recent A4's) weigh 24.6 lbs according toAchtuning. Still not as light as the 17x8 TR Motorsports MT-1 (17.5 lbs) I'm considering, for about the same price.

 

I am looking at the TR-1's as well but, by my calculations,the ET +48 offset on those means that they will stick out just over 14mm further than stock.

 

Dumb question, but does more (higher #) offset mean they move out more toward the fender edge? Or is it the other way around?[sm=dontgetit.gif]