Wheel Question

I really like 19" wheels and want to get them for my (yet to be purchased) 996. I find myself really drawn to the 996's that already have 19's but would be smarter to find the right car and then buy some wheels. On Ebay there are hundreds of auctions for 19's that they claim fit 996's. What's the downside to these wheels? Why are they so cheap? For example, here's some with cheap tires on them for $1,600. Is there a problem with them? Are they super heavy? Curious what you experts have to say. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/19-Po...item43a8d8568d

well -there is no offset listed. 996 and 997 have different front offset requirement assuming the same rim width. -rim brand? looks like SSR copies. You can buy OEM or quality rims (no tires) for that price.

19inch wheels and tires are pretty much common for current sports cars. Wheel Replica manufacturers are filling the market with Cast wheels for rock bottom prices. Obviously, prices for tires run a bit more than 18's, but I've been happy since upgrading to 19's and I don't have a problem paying the premium. For DD, they're fine with a good set of tires. I wouldn't recommend trying to go to the track with replica's; better to trust name brand, forged wheels if you really want lightweight and strength along with proven history ( and a warranty). It also depends what your budget is for a good set of wheels and tires. You can usually find some 19's FS here ( new /used). GL. FWIW, those Tires on the ebay ad ( Vredesteins, are actually very good tires, except they are a bit too low profile ( 225/35/19, 275/30/19), IMO. even for a lowered 996.

There is a flood of aftermarket wheels available for the 996 and 997 at rock bottom prices. They are all pretty good. My understanding is stay away from China wheels, but the Hong Kong wheels are ok. I just bought a set of 19s that are a knockoff of the "Techart" wheels. Techarts wheels are around $5K but the knockoffs are around $1500. Take advantage and best to deal with a reputable dealer like where I purchased mine. Get the best advice about the offsets and you specific vehicle. Check out http://www.wheeldynamics.com and talk with Eli, he knows wheels backwards and forwards Good luck with your choice and post some photos when you got them

When Porsche began putting 19 inch wheels on the 2005 997S automobiles many in the 996 group sought to put them on their cars. However, keep in mind that 19 inch wheels and tires put a substantially larger load upon the 996 suspension. Porsche AG had originally planned (for economic reasons) to retain the 996 suspension pieces for the 997, but with the move to 19s, they were forced to redesign the entire 997 suspension system. With 19s, the 996 suspensions were failing. Once any auto manufacturer showcases a wheel, it is immediately copied in China. Nearly anyone with a small factory in China can make pressure cast wheels--and they do. You can buy a set of wheels for less than $400, out of China. Just remember the old adage--you get what you pay for. If looks are all you're interested in, then go ahead. If safety is important to you, then don't jump on the 19 inch bandwagon just because they look neat.

Many of the Chinese wheels are heavy, very heavy, and the weight is in the rim area adding a lot of unsprung mass. Some of the hubcentric models are not accurately machined making the center a bit too large where is does not center the wheel. Some are a bit small where you must use the lugs to pull the wheel on to the hub, not good. Others don't use the spherical bolt holes and don't fit with OE lug bolts. Some offsets are a cross between a Carrera and Boxster and fit both but neither very well or as intended. Many wheels will fit but need expensive spacers and longer lug bolts to look right. Sometimes getting a well known brand is not even a trouble free fit.

for the street any wheel will do, the weight will not make any difference either, you will not feel it much. I bet you will see no difference between good light wheels and chinese wheels unless you track the car or are really in touch with your car. I have cheap replica and the 5 spokes like carerra wheels, can't tell the difference