Alloy Wheels Vs Steel Wheels: Which Is Better?

It is not just the looks; alloy wheels offer lots of other added advantages too.

• While alloy and steel wheels are commonly used in all passenger vehicles, carbon fibre wheels are primarily used in high-end sports cars.
• The entry-level variants of the affordable compact and midsize hatchbacks, sedans and SUVs come equipped with steel wheels.
• A steel wheel is more affordable to buy and can be easily moulded in different shapes, but they are heavy and are not available for sizes above 16-inches.
• Alloy wheels are present in the higher-spec variants of affordable compact and midsize hatchbacks, sedans and SUVs, and luxury vehicles.
• Alloy wheels are lighter, which aids in enhancing handling and fuel economy, but they are expensive.

Thinking of upgrading the exterior of your car? What's the first thing that comes to your mind? Well, one item that tops the list are the wheels. Many drivers spend a good amount of money to get alloy wheels for their cars. Is it all about the looks, or there is a technical reason behind it?

Choosing the right wheels for your vehicle is extremely important. You can choose between Steel and alloy wheels, as these are the two most common wheels used in cars. There are few other types like carbon fibre, but they are quite rare and expensive.

Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. Entry-level-segment cars come standard with wheels made of steel as it is a go-to metal for most parts of the car. It is cheap and can be easily moulded into different shapes to meet the demands. But more and more cars these days are getting equipped with wheels made of alloys. These are lighter and enhances the overall appearance and performance of the car. So, from price to performance, we help you compare the pros and cons of each type of wheels.

Allow Wheels Pros & Cons

Alloy wheels are forged from a mixture of aluminium, nickel and magnesium. Aluminium is used due to its lightweight character. These are less durable and expensive but because of it light weight it allow for better handling.

Pros

• Alloy wheels are lighter and allow better handling

• Because of the lightweight, there is a lower unsprung mass which improves fuel economy

• Lightweight frame of alloy wheels put less strain on the suspension which allows for faster acceleration

• There are more customization available for alloy wheels and they are more appealing to eyes than the steel wheels

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Cons

• Durability is a major area of concern with alloy wheels. In case of an impact, alloy wheels tend to bend and even crack more easily than the tougher steel wheels.

• Alloy wheels are more expensive

Steel Wheels Pros & Cons

For drivers looking for a cheaper yet stronger alternative, steels wheels makes for a great choice. These are stronger than the alloy wheels and are an ideal choice for heavy vehicles.

Pros

• Steel wheels are OEMs favourite and more widespread

• These are extremely durable, affordable, and easy to repair

• Steel wheels are more flexible and absorb more shocks

• These wheels are suitable for off-road and heavy-duty applications

• Extra weight of steel wheels helps while driving in snow as it keeps the vehicle firm and stops from slipping on ice

Cons

• Unsprung weight – decreases agility and ability to accelerate, lower fuel economy, puts a strain on suspension

• Less customization available

• Isn’t suitable for wheels over 16” in diameter

Conclusion

Steels wheels are durable, cheap and easy to repair. It absorbs more shocks and are resistant to impact. Alloy wheels, on the other hand, are lighter and allows better handling. It also enhances your vehicles profile and can be easily customized.

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