Log in

View Full Version : Help me choose some new wheels for my Brabus Mercedes....



Pages : [1] 2 3

Marco
16-12-2015, 22:27
Hi Guys,

I've decided to treat myself to a new set of alloys, for the Brabster. Currently I have all-gloss black split-rim 19" wheels, which were supplied as part of the Brabus upgrade pack carried out on the car. This is the vehicle in question:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/910/N93ZMi.jpg


I like the black wheels, but fancy a change, by going for some matt-black ones with a polished face, just to lift the 'black beast' look a bit! So... Here are the relevant candidates:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/633/s0xw8w.jpg http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/910/R4jSD1.png


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/633/AKuSMd.jpg http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/907/HYEMLL.png


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/633/402Nv4.jpg http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/903/X4cJOE.jpg

Budget: max £3.5k.


So, from those above, which wheels would you choose? Also, feel free to make your own suggestion! :cool:

Marco.

Patrick Dixon
16-12-2015, 22:30
Pink ones always go well with a black car.

Marco
16-12-2015, 22:32
Lol - maybe that's one for the weekend! Which would you go for from those shown above, and why? That question is of course open to everyone :)

I'm leaning towards the ATS, on the bottom right-hand side.

Marco.

struth
16-12-2015, 22:41
First set of AEZ... the 2nd set in the line up....trust me ;)

Marco
16-12-2015, 22:46
Why, what's your thinking behind that? :)

Those were my second choice, btw...

Marco.

walpurgis
16-12-2015, 22:47
Last ones. Not too bling, but smart and stylish.

struth
16-12-2015, 22:50
Why, what's your thinking behind that? :)

Those were my second choice, btw...

Marco.

silver 5 spoke are always best and they have some black flashing to mate to the car... all black can be a bit too much, as can too many spokes.... class is class and let it show on its own.

Marco
16-12-2015, 22:50
Last ones. Not too bling, but smart and stylish.

Aha - great minds think alike! However, I can also see where Granty's coming from :)

Marco.

Marco
16-12-2015, 22:53
silver 5 spoke are always best and they have some black flashing to mate to the car... all black can be a bit too much, as can too many spokes.... class is class and let it show on its own.

I hear ya, bro... Noted :)

Why those over the other ATS though, which Geoff and I like (very last ones)?

Marco.

struth
16-12-2015, 22:57
The other ones have a little thing going on in the centre that I dont like. good wheels dont need quirks like that. might just be my personal taste though...let the car do the talking, and the wheels compliment :)

Marco
16-12-2015, 23:11
The other ones have a little thing going on in the centre that I dont like. good wheels dont need quirks like that. might just be my personal taste though...let the car do the talking, and the wheels compliment :)

Think I'm beginning to agree with you, mate. Here, from the AEZ website, they are fitted to a white (brand new) Merc CLS (the shape of which I find revolting):

http://www.aez-wheels.com/EN/products/portofino-dark

Those AEZ's do look rather sexy! Will probably be a bit more understated on my car too, which I would like. They'll show off the red calipers! :cool:

Marco.

Gazjam
16-12-2015, 23:12
2nd set for me too.
Quick n dirty pic...
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/3_1.jpg

Ali Tait
16-12-2015, 23:17
Quite like these, bit of an old school BBS look-

http://www.axewheels.com/library/images/Axe%20EX10%20Gloss%20Black%20Alloy%20Wheels.jpg

Gazjam
16-12-2015, 23:17
Personal favorite 19"'s on a black car are are the Alfa's.
Look good on your merc, just swap the centre cap out. :)

http://www.veloces.co.uk/sites/www.veloces.co.uk/files/brera%20black%20002.jpg

Gazjam
16-12-2015, 23:18
Quite like these, bit of an old school BBS look-

http://www.axewheels.com/library/images/Axe%20EX10%20Gloss%20Black%20Alloy%20Wheels.jpg

Aye, the Hockenheims..

YNWaN
16-12-2015, 23:19
I don't think any of them will suit the car better than the ones already fitted.

struth
16-12-2015, 23:22
Personal favorite 19"'s on a black car are are the Alfa's.
Look good on your merc, just swap the centre cap out. :)

http://www.veloces.co.uk/sites/www.veloces.co.uk/files/brera%20black%20002.jpg

they would look great on a Brabus... big enough spaces to show the internals of the braking system too.

Marco
16-12-2015, 23:24
2nd set for me too.
Quick n dirty pic...
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/3_1.jpg

Lol... That makes them look SHITE! :D

Marco.

YNWaN
16-12-2015, 23:24
Quite like these, bit of an old school BBS look-

http://www.axewheels.com/library/images/Axe%20EX10%20Gloss%20Black%20Alloy%20Wheels.jpg

These are the best of the others assuming the brakes will fit.

Marco
16-12-2015, 23:27
Personal favorite 19"'s on a black car are are the Alfa's.
Look good on your merc, just swap the centre cap out. :)

http://www.veloces.co.uk/sites/www.veloces.co.uk/files/brera%20black%20002.jpg

Beautiful car and wheels, no doubt - but - I don't think I want to go all 'silver'.... I know exactly where Mark's coming from in that respect, about the ones that are already on the car suiting it best. I do like how evil it looks as a 'black beast', so don't want to dilute that effect too much!

Marco.

Ali Tait
16-12-2015, 23:29
Easy enough to have them powder coated Marco.

Marco
16-12-2015, 23:29
Quite like these, bit of an old school BBS look-

http://www.axewheels.com/library/images/Axe%20EX10%20Gloss%20Black%20Alloy%20Wheels.jpg

Gorgeous, but perhaps rather too 'Amercian Trans-am'? :hmm:

Marco.

Ali Tait
16-12-2015, 23:30
Like so-

http://www.alloytechrefurbedrims.co.uk/USERIMAGES/ALF3.JPG

Marco
16-12-2015, 23:30
Easy enough to have them powder coated Marco.

Yeah, but I wouldn't want to be spending nearly £1k a rim and then powder-coating the buggers! Nah, has to be 'fit & forget' :)

Marco.

Ali Tait
16-12-2015, 23:31
Gorgeous, but perhaps rather too 'Amercian Trans-am'? :hmm:

Marco.

It's a style that BMW used a fair bit in the 80-90's.

Gazjam
16-12-2015, 23:33
Beautiful car and wheels, no doubt - but - I don't think I want to go all 'silver'.... I know exactly where Mark's coming from in that respect, about the ones that are already on the car suiting it best. I do like how evil it looks as a 'black beast', so don't want to dilute that effect too much!

Marco.

Also available in evil black :)

http://www.parkwayspecialistcars.co.uk/uploads/product/zoom_ALFA_ROMEO_BRERA_2.2_JTS_PRODRIVE.jpg

walpurgis
16-12-2015, 23:36
The Lorinser RS8 wheels look superb and come in Merc fit:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lorinser-Light-Alloy-Wheel-set-RS8-CHROM-8-5x19-9-5x19-Mercedes-Benz-/261389818152?hash=item3cdc0c1928:g:Yf0AAOxyUrZS76t v

Marco
16-12-2015, 23:36
Looks more like grey, Gaz......

I do like them, but when you're used to seeing just pure black, anything 'shiny' seems to stand out like a sore thumb... I'm wondering now what the first pair of ATS would look like (from the selection I originally posted)... Could someone superimpose them on the pic of my car for me? :)

Marco.

Marco
16-12-2015, 23:38
It's a style that BMW used a fair bit in the 80-90's.

Yeah, I remember those with fondness - and it suited those Beemers well! :)

Marco.

Ali Tait
16-12-2015, 23:38
Yeah, but I wouldn't want to be spending nearly £1k a rim and then powder-coating the buggers! Nah, has to be 'fit & forget' :)

Marco.

Buy a refurbished set in the colour of your choice. Look as new and would save you a fortune. Lots of web shops that do them.

Marco
16-12-2015, 23:46
Possibly, but I think I'd rather just have something 'shiny new and sorted' from scratch... What about this as a somewhat left-field choice:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/910/MJXtwx.jpg


I'm kinda thinking if I do the silver thang, best to go all-out stainless steel.

Marco.

walpurgis
16-12-2015, 23:50
A bit 'aftermarket nineties BMW' to me. :D

Marco
16-12-2015, 23:53
Or these in gun metal:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/633/h9sZkj.jpg


Marco.

Marco
16-12-2015, 23:53
A bit 'aftermarket nineties BMW' to me. :D

Yeah, I know. Just trying to think 'outside the box' :)

Marco.

Roy S
16-12-2015, 23:56
Fit & forget?

http://i1.trekearth.com/photos/165/wagon_wheel.jpg

Ali Tait
17-12-2015, 00:01
Or these in gun metal:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/633/h9sZkj.jpg


Marco.

Those are nice.

Marco
17-12-2015, 00:01
Fit & forget?

http://i1.trekearth.com/photos/165/wagon_wheel.jpg


:lolsign: :D

Marco.

Ninanina
17-12-2015, 00:02
I just hate all blingy alloys... this is what a Merc wheel should look like in my opinion

http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a450/ninanina2/Merc%20Wheel.jpg (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/ninanina2/media/Merc%20Wheel.jpg.html)

or this if it had to be an alloy, nice and understated

http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a450/ninanina2/Merc%20Wheel%202_2.jpg (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/ninanina2/media/Merc%20Wheel%202_2.jpg.html)

Marco
17-12-2015, 00:02
I have to say that these are growing on me (as I'm thinking that having the silver on the rim/edge, and black on the face, might suit the car better than the other way round):

http://www.atswheels.com/ats/portfolios/praezision/

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 00:04
I just hate all blingy alloys... this is what a Merc wheel should look like in my opinion

http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a450/ninanina2/Merc%20Wheel.jpg (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/ninanina2/media/Merc%20Wheel.jpg.html)

or this if it had to be an alloy, nice and understated

http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a450/ninanina2/Merc%20Wheel%202_2.jpg (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/ninanina2/media/Merc%20Wheel%202_2.jpg.html)

Lol - I know where you're coming from, Bev, but somehow I don't think that they would suit my car (which of course I know you don't like)! :eyebrows:

Marco.

Ninanina
17-12-2015, 00:06
No they definitely would look silly on your Merc :D

I like understated in all things car to be honest..

walpurgis
17-12-2015, 00:07
I have to say that these are growing on me (as I'm thinking that having the silver on the rim/edge, and black on the face, might suit the car better than the other way round):

http://www.atswheels.com/ats/portfolios/praezision/

Marco.

Nope. A bit 'fussy' looking I think. They look cheaper than they probably are, merely because they have been designed to impress (in my opinion of course).

Marco
17-12-2015, 00:08
No they definitely would look silly on your Merc :D


Yup, it's a sporty car, built primarily on performance. I do know what you mean though, about understated. I also share that view, but that's not what the aesthetics of this particular car are about :)

It's *GOT* to look MEAN and BRUTAL!! ;)

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 00:09
Nope. A bit 'fussy' looking I think. They look cheaper than they probably are, merely because they have been designed to impress (in my opinion of course).

I do know where you're coming from. It would be useful if one of you talented chaps could do the Photoshop thing and let me see what they would potentially look like on the car :)

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 00:17
Views on these:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/907/cRCOuE.png


Marco.

walpurgis
17-12-2015, 00:19
I don't do 'photoshop' (never tried), but I can see your situation Marco. It can be difficult to visualise how things go together.

walpurgis
17-12-2015, 00:22
Views on these. Marco.

Actually. Yes, I rather like those. Very stylish, without too much of a glitzy look. The only thing I don't like is the vulnerable appearance. I can picture one good clonk on a kerb breaking the thin spars.

Marco
17-12-2015, 00:28
Lol - I don't clonk kerbs! You won't believe how careful I am about that ;)

I actually like the ones on the main Zito website, featured on a car with a similar appearance to mine (shown below): http://www.zitoalloy.com/#!about/cjg9


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/907/o6pjea.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/p7o6pjeaj)


Love those matt-paint finished cars, too!!

Marco.

Gazjam
17-12-2015, 00:40
http://www.atswheels.com/ats/wp-content/plugins/360grad/produkte/praezision_racing_schwarz_doppel_hornpoliert/001.jpg
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/8.jpg

Marco
17-12-2015, 00:42
Cheers, Gaz. Not too bad, that. It's pretty much convinced me that I want the 'face' to be black (and not silver), regardless of the design of the wheel.

Could you do it with the Zitos shown on the black Merc in my last post? :)

Marco.

Gazjam
17-12-2015, 01:00
Rough n ready again, gives you an idea mibbay.
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/7.jpg

Marco
17-12-2015, 01:02
Thanks, any chance of seeing an expanded shot of that (ones on my car), rather than cropped ones, like you did on post #49? :)

Marco.

Gazjam
17-12-2015, 01:12
These look mean...like 'em. :)
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/99.jpg

Marco
17-12-2015, 01:14
Yeah, I like 'em, too. Funny how the picture makes them look a bit 'chipped/scratched' - what's going on there with the 'silvery bits'?

Marco.

Gazjam
17-12-2015, 01:23
its because of the original image when quickly tweaked in Photoshop , scaled down etc comes out that way without a lot of tweaking.
Just a quick n dirty mock up, too late for "proper" work!
Gives you an idea anyway. :)

These are my favs so far.

Marco
17-12-2015, 01:27
Ah I see... Yes, I do agree :)

Marco.

Audio Advent
17-12-2015, 02:03
Why, what's your thinking behind that? :)


If you can articulate the thinking behind an aesthetic choice then you're probably not making the right choice at all (or talking BS to justify instinct).

I was thinking the top right AEZs and then the BBS's (without the BBS centercap if poss).

Audio Advent
17-12-2015, 02:12
Yeah, but I wouldn't want to be spending nearly £1k a rim and then powder-coating the buggers! Nah, has to be 'fit & forget' :)

Marco.

Then just pretend you've fitted them and forget about the whole thing! Surely you want "fit & think about them every time you see the car"...

Audio Advent
17-12-2015, 02:25
How about some classic racing style rims from OZ:

http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/oncirrus/3/image/product/enlarge/0123456789/0123456789/ozr-supertur-gra.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/7b/98/46/7b9846652093a06454e18c716798766f.jpg

Audio Advent
17-12-2015, 02:31
Should be good for getting more fares anyway... seeing as the 99% driving similar Mercs in London are all private cabs!

WOStantonCS100
17-12-2015, 03:23
Always partial to the "simpler '5' spoke" designs. Personally, I think too many zigs and zags in the wheel design always takes away from the fact that one is driving a badass car.

Marco
17-12-2015, 08:54
Yeah, Biff, I *think* I'm with you on that... However, it's a damned difficult decision! Although, of course, I like nice wheels (otherwise I wouldn't be doing this), I kind of want them just to 'blend' in with and compliment the car, rather than stand out in a showy sort of way, if you see what I mean?

It's the old form follows function thing...

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 08:55
How about some classic racing style rims from OZ:

http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/oncirrus/3/image/product/enlarge/0123456789/0123456789/ozr-supertur-gra.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/7b/98/46/7b9846652093a06454e18c716798766f.jpg

Nah, too many thin spokes... Not the look I'm after.

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 08:57
Should be good for getting more fares anyway... seeing as the 99% driving similar Mercs in London are all private cabs!

Yeah, but they're all (or mainly) boring E and S-classes. Old man's cars. I certainly don't want that 'executive/presidential chauffeur' look! :nono:

Sporty and 'bad-ass' is the one :exactly:

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 09:01
I was thinking the top right AEZs and then the BBS's (without the BBS centercap if poss).

Yeah, the BBS is defo an option, if I keep with the all-black look. I'm informed that the fitting of the centre-caps is standard, so I could simply pop in the Brabus ones from my current wheels :)

Anyway, I'd just like to say that all your views and suggestions have been most helpful, so keep them coming. It defo helps having others drawing attention to things you perhaps hadn't considered before, so guys, thanks for that! :thumbsup:

Marco.

anthonyTD
17-12-2015, 09:35
Out the list supplied,
I think the first ATS versions may suit the look your after, get someone who's good with photoshop to try them on the car.
I also like BBS, and MIM's.
A...

Marco
17-12-2015, 09:46
Okay dokes... Yeah, there's something about those ATS, plus they're going to look totally different in the flesh, and when they're actually on the car. Don't know MIMs. I'll look them up :)

Marco.

anthonyTD
17-12-2015, 09:55
Here you go!
http://wheelsshop.com/alloy/MIM
Okay dokes... Yeah, there's something about those ATS, plus they're going to look totally different in the flesh, and when they're actually on the car. Don't know MIMs. I'll look them up :)

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 10:00
Cheers, matey :)

Marco.

Desmo
17-12-2015, 10:09
I understand that you are in Wrexham, just pop over to Demon Tweekes and see what they have available. Their motorsport wheels are very good quality. http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/

Marco
17-12-2015, 10:13
Good idea, Graham - I've used them before! :thumbsup:

Marco.

Audio Advent
17-12-2015, 10:14
Yeah, but they're all (or mainly) boring E and S-classes. Old man's cars. I certainly don't want that 'executive/presidential chauffeur' look! :nono:

Sporty and 'bad-ass' is the one :exactly:

Marco.

I don't mean they drive Mercs in general, I mean the exact same model as yours I most often see with a cab licence circle in the rear window. Obviously not the brabus version and not in any sport trim, but the same model.

My personal taste is not to have too large a gap between spokes and prefer the functional look as per racing wheels; less flex in the rim with regular and more numerous spokes.

These Speedlines look great on a Ford RS200 in a showroom in South London (they've three of them in the showroom!) but are 17" and things look different on larger wheels:

http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r294/AndyPen_photos/wheels/show_wheel_refurb.jpg

Audio Advent
17-12-2015, 10:16
I understand that you are in Wrexham, just pop over to Demon Tweekes and see what they have available. Their motorsport wheels are very good quality. http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/

That's where I got the OZ photos from. Good choices there and of course with lots of form following function designs for racing.

Marco
17-12-2015, 10:26
I don't mean they drive Mercs in general, I mean the exact same model as yours I most often see with a cab licence circle in the rear window. Obviously not the brabus version and not in any sport trim, but the same model.


Yeah, I see what you mean. In bog standard form it's a Mercedes C350 CDI Elegance.


My personal taste is not to have too large a gap between spokes and prefer the functional look as per racing wheels; less flex in the rim with regular and more numerous spokes.

These Speedlines look great on a Ford RS200 in a showroom in South London (they've three of them in the showroom!) but are 17" and things look different on larger wheels:

http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r294/AndyPen_photos/wheels/show_wheel_refurb.jpg

I know where you're coming from, but as I've got uprated Ferodo discs and calipers, it would be nice to show them off, hence the desire for larger gaps. Also, I'm wondering if less spokes make the wheels lighter?

That would also be a major selling point. For me, the lighter (and stronger), the better. Less weight means less drag and more power! ;)

Marco.

CageyH
17-12-2015, 10:33
Fit whatever you like best. Nobody will see them when you are moving. ;)

Puffin
17-12-2015, 10:57
http://www.atswheels.com/ats/wp-content/plugins/360grad/produkte/praezision_racing_schwarz_doppel_hornpoliert/001.jpg
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/8.jpg

Nooooooo!

Puffin
17-12-2015, 11:01
I would go matt black with the current wheels for the stealth look. Save tons of dosh.

Marco
17-12-2015, 11:08
Lol - useful thoughts, Rob :)

What don't you like about the ones you've just highlighted? Perhaps they're a bit too showy?

Marco.

struth
17-12-2015, 11:19
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/17/eaa8b3dec8585f891068efbde6c261a5.jpg

Quite like these....

...and as an outsider and off the beaten track these audi styled one give a certain aero quality

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/17/6394daccb64b10d0eb8f7efbe8df5403.jpg

CageyH
17-12-2015, 11:24
Personally, I would stick with the Brabus wheels.
They are not as common as the others.

What is it that you don't like about them?

Marco
17-12-2015, 11:30
I do like them, but just fancied a wee change, by seeing if introducing a little bit of silver would 'lift' things a bit. I may just change my mind again, though, and forget about the whole thing! :eyebrows:

Marco.

User211
17-12-2015, 11:53
Hm looks like your going through a phase I went through a few months ago. Broadly put - wheel agony.

After driving 20 inch rims on the Boxster, Boxster S and Cayman, and driving the 19 inch ones I actually ordered the Boxster with, there is a pretty profound difference in handling.

The 20 inch rims with tyres are the same diameter as the 19 inch wheels with tyres. So the 20 inch tyre is lower profile. The handling with them is like driving on rails - like your steering with massive precision. You lose some of that feeling on the 19.s

You'd think the ride would be worse on the 20s but actually it is still really good.

Both the 19s and 20s have a problem though - when you are parking and turning tight corners, they kind of ratchet and make huge clicking noises. Until you know what it is, you think something is seriously wrong with the car.

Much as the 20s are awesome, you'll get way less miles out of them in this case. So I've comprmised and stuck with what I have - which are still great. Those 20s, though... awesome.

Anyway, anything else but Merc wheels on a Merc? Nope. Have you tried ebay for some used Merc, AMG or Brabus efforts?

User211
17-12-2015, 12:01
Also, isn't there a Merc car configurator? Find a similar looking Merc in black and swap the wheels. The Porsche website has a great (superb, really) 3D model engine. I spent hours in it.

Marco
17-12-2015, 12:07
Hi Justin,

Lol... No "wheel agony", as such. I just fancy experimenting! These days, I spend much more of the disposable income I have on my car (and music) than on hi-fi, so just a bit of fun really :)

Never tried 20" wheels, although my car can take them. I'd have to get new tyres though, which with the Pirelli P-Zeros I use, would add about another £1k to any wheel set price! Don't think I want to go there, unless you can convince me in some way that 20-inch wheels are particularly awesome!

Could you outline in a little detail, as to what in your opinion, the differences are between 19 and 20-inchers?

Although I love all the Brabus and AMG stuff, there are (IMO) equally good wheels around for a Merc - and in terms of Brabus, you can bet your boots that one of prestige German wheel manufactures, such as ATS or AEZ will have produced their wheels for them. The Brabus badge doesn't mean that they've actually made the product.

In this instance I would like new (with a warranty), not second-hand.

Marco.

CageyH
17-12-2015, 12:09
I do like them, but just fancied a wee change, by seeing if introducing a little bit of silver would 'lift' things a bit. I may just change my mind again, though, and forget about the whole thing! :eyebrows:

Marco.

Get a roll of sticky aluminium tape, stick silver bits on where you want them to see the overall effect.
It will be much cheaper when you decide you don't like it. :lol:

Marco
17-12-2015, 12:12
Ah yes, time for some Blue Peter fun, 70s style! :D

Marco.

anthonyTD
17-12-2015, 12:19
Aye, good idea,:lol:
Personaly, i think you should stick with the original wheels, well, at least untill you see a set that realy, realy grabs you!
Get a roll of sticky aluminium tape, stick silver bits on where you want them to see the overall effect.
It will be much cheaper when you decide you don't like it. :lol:

User211
17-12-2015, 12:24
Still try ebay for new. You can buy 20 inch Porsche Sport Techno 20 inch rims on there for a massive discount (from Germany) i.e. about £2K. Porsche dealer's want pretty much double that or more - first link Google came up with, with tyres: http://suncoastparts.com/product/99120TECHNO.html

Do you get that ratcheting effect I was talking about? Be really curious to know.

I'd get a simple 5 spoke design like the Sport Techno because they are a cinch to clean. And they look good in the two tone silver/grey or silver/black.

I can't convince you to go for 20s as your car will be a different kettle of fish, and I suspect the difference between 19s and 20s on yours will therefore be a different experience.

TBH I did notice in the wet, the 19s are the safer option on the Porsche. In the snow, I suspect safer still.

Around a dry track the 20s are reported as quicker.

Marco
17-12-2015, 12:30
Okies, interesting. Looks like I need to do some research on the pros and cons, vis-à-vis 19 and 20" rims... It's something I had considered some time ago, and if I was going to do it, now would be the time :)

Yes, I know what you mean about the "ratcheting effect". Is that normal then with 19 and 20-inch rims?

Marco.

User211
17-12-2015, 12:36
Okies, interesting. Looks like I need to do some research on the pros and cons, vis-à-vis 19 and 20" rims... It's something I had considered some time ago, and if I was going to do it, now would be the time :)

Yes, I know what you mean about the "ratcheting effect". Is that normal then with 19 and 20-inch rims?

Marco.

Normal? I can't see it can be anything else but a function of the tyre size and thread. So I guess it must be. That size my wife's Nissan 18 inch rims/tyres don't do it at all but they are narrower and the thread pattern is far less aggressive.

TBH a low profile tyre and bigger rims will almost certainly handle better in the dry. On mine the difference is not subtle repeat not subtle, repeat like driving on rails. When you experience it it seriously makes you think. Hence the agony!!!

Marco
17-12-2015, 12:45
What about the extra weight penalty, though?

This guy's post here on the matter is interesting. Note his comments on 20s: http://www.m3post.com/forums/showpost.php?p=15046986&postcount=7


To the OP - 20" wheels on an M3 are a compromise in every way. I have had 20's, 19's, and 18's. 20's have lowest performance, highest price, highest weight, least compliance, highest likelihood for damage (thin tire side wall)...


I realise though he's talking about an M3, not a Mercedes.

Marco.

User211
17-12-2015, 12:53
What about the extra weight penalty, though?

This guy's post here on the matter is interesting. Note his comments on 20s: http://www.m3post.com/forums/showpost.php?p=15046986&postcount=7



I realise though he's talking about an M3.

Marco.

He does make the point I made and they may well be a diff kettle of fish on your car i.e. the Porsche's were built with 20s in mind.

TBH the debate is endless on Porsche forums, with arguments either way. Until you actually try them you won't know. So stick with the 19s as a safe bet I'd say. The trouble is I do know:D

The Sport Techno is the heaviest 20 inch Porsche wheel as I understand it. What the penalty for that is in real terms in a straight line I do not know. Or even what % heavier they are than my 19s.

Marco
17-12-2015, 12:57
Gotcha... Think I'd defer to my trusted and very experienced (specialist) mechanic on that one - and see what he says :)

Marco.

User211
17-12-2015, 13:19
Gotcha... Think I'd defer to my trusted and very experienced (specialist) mechanic on that one - and see what he says :)

Marco.

Someone you know & trust who has driven your car or very similar on 20s is what you need... defo.

Puffin
17-12-2015, 14:13
Lol - useful thoughts, Rob :)

What don't you like about the ones you've just highlighted? Perhaps they're a bit too showy?

Marco.

Yes, IMO if you don't choose wheels carefully it can make the whole car look cheap......which it aint!

Marco
17-12-2015, 15:56
Well, I'm just back from Demon Tweeks, having had a look at their wheel department. They have a huge range there, but obviously can only keep a certain amount on physical display. Of the wheels they had on show, I spied these ones from Calibre, which are similar in appearance to the AEZs:

http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/performance/calibre-alloy-wheels/calibre-cc-s-alloy-wheels-set-of-4

Whilst those are cheaper wheels, I really liked the look of them, especially when I drove my car into the workshop and the guy placed one of them next to it, over one of the existing wheels. Therefore, having done that now, I think that the AEZs will be a safe bet, and no doubt better quality than the Calibres :)

The AEZs in question: http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/performance/aez-alloy-wheels/aez-portofino-alloy-wheels-set-of-4

Marco.

YNWaN
17-12-2015, 16:28
Seriously, I think the ones you have on the car already suit it better than the after market options you have shown.

Marco
17-12-2015, 16:36
Thing is, Mark, I'm not planning on selling my old set, so they could always remain as spares and/or when I fancy a change. Choice is good! :)

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 16:44
I'm also looking at these:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/907/ebhBqe.png


Also, as shown here on the main ATS website: http://www.atswheels.com/ats/portfolios/racelight/

Apparently, very light (and strong). Just the ticket! From the website:


The Racelight alloy wheel is worthy of its name by way of a special production technique which ensures both low weight and high stability – Flowforming. It’s a complicated technique which is also used in the manufacture of racing wheels. Consequently, the 8.5x19 weighs just 9.9kg. In comparison with conventionally cast wheels, a weight reduction of 10% is a direct result of the FlowForming process, and the complete weight saving can show results in a weight reduction of 4kg per wheel – a massive 16kg per car!


I think that I may have made my decision.... :)

Marco.

User211
17-12-2015, 16:51
Thing is, Mark, I'm not planning on selling my old set, so they could always remain as spares and/or when I fancy a change. Choice is good! :)

Marco.

I quite like the Calibres. Easy clean too.

BTW I will probably keep the 19s for winter and get the Sport Techno 20s for summer i.e. get a set for my birthday in April.

Gazjam
17-12-2015, 16:53
Ahem....


Well, I'm just back from Demon Tweaks, having had a look at their wheel department. They have a huge range there, but obviously can only keep a certain amount on physical display. Of the wheels they had on show, I spied these ones from Calibre, which are similar in appearance to the AEZs:

http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/performance/calibre-alloy-wheels/calibre-cc-s-alloy-wheels-set-of-4

Whilst those are cheaper wheels, I really liked the look of them, especially when I drove my car into the workshop and the guy placed one of them next to it, over one of the existing wheels. Therefore, having done that now, I think that the AEZs will be a safe bet, and no doubt better quality than the Calibres :)

The AEZs in question: http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/performance/aez-alloy-wheels/aez-portofino-alloy-wheels-set-of-4
http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/oncirrus/system/trans.png
http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/oncirrus/system/trans.png (http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/performance/aez-alloy-wheels/aez-portofino-alloy-wheels-set-of-4)
http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/oncirrus/system/trans.png
Marco.

What, you mean these?

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Clipboard01_11.jpg
http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/oncirrus/system/trans.png
http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/oncirrus/system/trans.png


http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/3_1.jpg

Lol... That makes them look SHITE! :D
Marco.
:D

With the chrome strip along the top of the door and (I think?) the wing mirror, these will look a great match.
Also, the wide open 5 spoke design will show off your brake calipers well.

Aside from the Alafa telephone dial wheels i like best, these would get my money.
All subjective of course...or can you measure how good a wheel looks? :eyebrows:

(Blind testing cars is never a good idea)
http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/oncirrus/system/trans.png

CageyH
17-12-2015, 16:53
Taxi for Gazjam

:lol:

Marco
17-12-2015, 17:17
Ahem....

What, you mean these?

With the chrome strip along the top of the door and (I think?) the wing mirror, these will look a great match.
Also, the wide open 5 spoke design will show off your brake calipers well.

Aside from the Alafa telephone dial wheels i like best, these would get my money.
All subjective of course...or can you measure how good a wheel looks? :eyebrows:

(Blind testing cars is never a good idea)


Ha - aye! :D

I do like those AEZs [as they've been discussed umpteen times]. However, having done a little bit of research, I'm pretty much sold now on something from the ATS Performance Line (as I like the idea of superlight weight, married to high strength (including their racing pedigree). Plus, they're German:

http://www.atswheels.com/ats/performanceline/

Question is, which ones from the above selection? :hmm:

Marco.

struth
17-12-2015, 17:20
After seeing that I will change my vote. Needs a lot more wheel:D

User211
17-12-2015, 17:27
Question is, which ones from the above selection? :hmm:

Marco.

Unquestionably Twinlight. Unless blind, of course;):lol:

Gazjam
17-12-2015, 17:37
Superlight gets my vote...a wee bit "phoar" on that Beemer.

Marco
17-12-2015, 17:40
Only Superlight, Racelight and Crosslight will fit my car, as I need what's called a 'staggered fitment' (wider tyres at the rear), and only the former three come with that option. Twinlight are only available as 20-inch.

It's a hard choice between those three!! :hmm:

Wish I knew how much my current Brabus wheels weighed? I suspect a bit more than any of those, so that alone is a selling point. If I can shed something approaching 20kg from the car, that's got to be good for any number of reasons! :exactly:

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 17:46
After seeing that I will change my vote. Needs a lot more wheel:D

What are you thinking now, then? :)

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 17:50
Purely on an appearance basis, I'm moving towards the Crosslight. They're 1.7kg each heavier than the Racelight, which isn't really a hill of beans, and the Superlight are a bit too 'spokey' looking for me.

Marco.

Puffin
17-12-2015, 18:40
If I can shed something approaching 20kg from the car......

Marco.

With Christmas around the corner..........No Chance:D

Marco
17-12-2015, 18:44
Hahahahahaha.... Love it! :lol:

Seriously though, that would be like the difference between transporting around my CDP or DAC, on every journey, and not. That should have a noticeable effect on fuel consumption, and perhaps a bit in terms of engine performance.

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 19:08
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/908/6Cc37W.jpg

Yum, yum - decision made, job done! :carrot: :thumbsup:

Just imagine some low-profile 265/30 R19 Pirelli P-Zero Corsas on them: http://www.pirelli.com/tyres/en-gb/car/find-your-tyres/products-sheet/pzero-corsa-system#/overview

I think that combo will look FAB and perform superbly!!

Marco.

walpurgis
17-12-2015, 19:08
Some 30 inch rims could make for an interesting look. :D

http://i64.tinypic.com/k9fjio.jpg

struth
17-12-2015, 19:23
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/908/6Cc37W.jpg

Yum, yum - decision made, job done! :carrot: :thumbsup:

Just imagine some low-profile 265/30 R19 Pirelli P-Zero Corsas on them: http://www.pirelli.com/tyres/en-gb/car/find-your-tyres/products-sheet/pzero-corsa-system#/overview

I think that combo will look FAB and perform superbly!!

Marco.

need white wallers on those

Marco
17-12-2015, 19:32
Aye, I'll get a paint brush! :eek: :D

Marco.

User211
17-12-2015, 19:56
That works.

http://www.atswheels.com/ats/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/slider_audi_r8_twinlight_1900x520-min.jpg

User211
17-12-2015, 19:58
Tyres sorted now teleport the car here and get it sorted once and for all.

http://www.kindigit.com/about-us.php

Marco
17-12-2015, 20:01
It does, doesn't it? They're only available in 20-inch, though... Get some for your Boxy! ;)

I'm happy with my choice, though. I think the Crosslights will look fab. I'll take some pics when they've been fitted, which won't be until the new year.

Marco.

Marco
17-12-2015, 20:25
Bugger it, I'm going for the lighter Racelight:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/907/Q15pJV.jpg


Right, *THAT* is definitely it! Done deal :trust: :christmas:

Marco.

Audio Advent
17-12-2015, 23:55
I know where you're coming from, but as I've got uprated Ferodo discs and calipers, it would be nice to show them off, hence the desire for larger gaps. Also, I'm wondering if less spokes make the wheels lighter?

That would also be a major selling point. For me, the lighter (and stronger), the better. Less weight means less drag and more power! ;)

Marco.

Oh.... ahem... I assume most people who show off their calipers have just gone and got the standard ones and painted them red and so I hold the appropriate opinion of them. :lol: No-one cares, more likely most people will think negatively of you, so ignore them and enjoy simply "knowing" they're better than normal.

Weight depends completely on what they are made of. Show alloys with fewer spokes will likely be heavier than proper light sport rims with lots of spokes..

walpurgis
17-12-2015, 23:57
Congratulations on post No.1000 Sam! :)

struth
17-12-2015, 23:57
Oh.... ahem... I assume most people who show off their calipers have just gone and got the standard ones and painted them red and so I hold the appropriate opinion of them. :lol: No-one cares, more likely most people will think negatively of you, so ignore them and enjoy simply "knowing" they're better than normal.

Weight depends completely on what they are made of. Show alloys with fewer spokes will likely be heavier than proper light sport rims with lots of spokes..

Thats what baboons do... and it works :eyebrows:

Audio Advent
18-12-2015, 00:10
After driving 20 inch rims on the Boxster, Boxster S and Cayman, and driving the 19 inch ones I actually ordered the Boxster with, there is a pretty profound difference in handling.

The 20 inch rims with tyres are the same diameter as the 19 inch wheels with tyres. So the 20 inch tyre is lower profile. The handling with them is like driving on rails - like your steering with massive precision. You lose some of that feeling on the 19.s

I'd put this entirely down to the lower profile of the 20 inchers inless they were wider too... Essentially what is important in terms of handling is the rubber you put on them, too big rims needing ultra-low profile rubber to keep the wheels the same diameter means a harsher ride and more shock to the suspension over time too. You don't want to go too low.

Then bigger rims impact on acceleration and economy too.

This small test article had the sweet spot with grip/performance on a Golf GTi at 17"/ 18" rather than the max 19" : http://www.caranddriver.com/features/effects-of-upsized-wheels-and-tires-tested

Audio Advent
18-12-2015, 00:49
Congratulations on post No.1000 Sam! :)

WAHHHHH !!!!!! WOOOOOOO !!!!!! :) :) Thanks.

I didn't know I was such a chatter box after all, spent a long time just lurking haha.

Marco
18-12-2015, 07:32
Oh.... ahem... I assume most people who show off their calipers have just gone and got the standard ones and painted them red and so I hold the appropriate opinion of them. :lol: No-one cares, more likely most people will think negatively of you, so ignore them and enjoy simply "knowing" they're better than normal.


Ha - if you knew me, you'd know that I give less than none of a monkey's toss what folk think (other than those whose opinions I value). Often idiots, such as you describe, are just jealous! ;)

Having said that though, I've only ever had positive comments about the car, from people who like it, but don't know anything about Brabus, asking me what kind of car it is, bearing in mind that the only obvious reference to Mercedes is the badge on the radiator, to others (car enthusiasts), who just go :respect: the latest of which was a guy in a gorgeous C63 AMG.


Weight depends completely on what they are made of. Show alloys with fewer spokes will likely be heavier than proper light sport rims with lots of spokes..

Yup, hence why I've now gone for some light sport rims (see my final choice). I think these will both look great and improve performance, in terms of handling, etc. Can't wait to get them now, especially as next year I intend taking the Brabster onto Oulton Park racing track, in Manchester, which should be fun! :)

http://www.oultonpark.co.uk/

Marco.

Marco
18-12-2015, 07:44
I'd put this entirely down to the lower profile of the 20 inchers inless they were wider too... Essentially what is important in terms of handling is the rubber you put on them, too big rims needing ultra-low profile rubber to keep the wheels the same diameter means a harsher ride and more shock to the suspension over time too. You don't want to go too low.

Then bigger rims impact on acceleration and economy too.

This small test article had the sweet spot with grip/performance on a Golf GTi at 17"/ 18" rather than the max 19" : http://www.caranddriver.com/features/effects-of-upsized-wheels-and-tires-tested

I think it's all to do with whether or not a car is designed/set up properly for use with bigger wheels. You can't just strap a bigger set onto one that hasn't been optimised for them, and hope that they're going to work. I had 18s on my last Merc, and wouldn't want them replacing the 19s on my current car, but then it has lowered sports suspension and wider, lower-profile tyres, etc, etc...

Marco.

Marco
18-12-2015, 07:59
If you scroll down in following link, past the silver Merc estate, you'll see the wheels I've chosen fitted to a white Audi: http://www.atswheels.com/ats/


With our FlowForming- and Schmiederaddesigns experience the possibilities of modern wheel development. The lower weight compared to conventional light-alloy wheels will inspire you. Increase the performance of your vehicle and at the same time the economy through a reduction of the rotating mass. This leads to optimized driving characteristics and is ideal for the ambitious driver, who wishes to make no compromises in quality and design.


:yesbruv: Count me in! :thumbsup:

Marco.

User211
18-12-2015, 09:39
Interesting Boxster GTS extras piss take video.

Those 20s are another, cheaper than Sport Techno option. They look cool - but I reckon cleaning each wheel would probably take the best part of 45 minutes - getting inside it extremely hard.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2SE00U6GfE

Marco
18-12-2015, 10:11
That's what a small paint or artist's brush is for! ;)

I do like those wheels, though. The prices of the extras remind me of the cost of Brabus bits!! The steering wheel alone in my car was nearly a grand :eek:

Check out the illuminated gear knob I'm getting for my Christmas: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/281200961430? _trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/907/KECEwZ.jpg

Boys toys, eh? :eyebrows: Should look cool!

Marco [the most fastidious cleaner of alloy wheels you'll meet].

struth
18-12-2015, 10:33
Could do with an illuminated knob myself

Marco
18-12-2015, 10:43
Hehehe... Are you having trouble 'guiding' it towards where it should go? :D

Marco.

Audio Al
18-12-2015, 10:57
I noticed this accessory for you bra bus

Or do you already use one :D
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5806/23825243855_52b1c77325_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CimAWt)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/CimAWt) by Allen Wells (https://www.flickr.com/photos/134779142@N03/), on Flickr

Audio Al
18-12-2015, 11:00
Something like these ? maybe ;)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/666/23457345149_bb31139536.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BJR2tk)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/BJR2tk) by Allen Wells (https://www.flickr.com/photos/134779142@N03/), on Flickr

struth
18-12-2015, 11:02
Handy for catching sheep

Marco
18-12-2015, 11:27
I noticed this accessory for you bra bus

Or do you already use one :D
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5806/23825243855_52b1c77325_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CimAWt)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/CimAWt) by Allen Wells (https://www.flickr.com/photos/134779142@N03/), on Flickr

I've told you before, shweety, last time you bought me undies, I don't 'do' underwired bras! :doh:

:D

Marco.

User211
18-12-2015, 12:27
I'd put this entirely down to the lower profile of the 20 inchers inless they were wider too... Essentially what is important in terms of handling is the rubber you put on them, too big rims needing ultra-low profile rubber to keep the wheels the same diameter means a harsher ride and more shock to the suspension over time too. You don't want to go too low.

Lotta truth in there.

Go and blag the Porsche garage into a test drive with some 20s in a recent Cayman/Boxster. Then come back and tell me you didn't feel like you were steering with laser guided precision.

There is something fantastic about them and indeed if that wasn't the case, the plethora of videos on YouTube exclaiming the driving excellence of these cars would not exist.

You will also notice that even with the low profile, the ride quality is brilliant.

Beobloke
18-12-2015, 13:04
Why has no-one given the correct answer yet, which is to leave the wheels alone?

Fitting anything other than those the manufacturer intended (as with car stereos and car mats) marks you out as a cad, a rotter and, very possibly, a scoundrel.

:D

Marco
18-12-2015, 13:11
Golly, old boy, you're right... Best forget all about it then! :wave: :hotrod:

Marco.

CageyH
18-12-2015, 17:13
Why has no-one given the correct answer yet, which is to leave the wheels alone?

Fitting anything other than those the manufacturer intended (as with car stereos and car mats) marks you out as a cad, a rotter and, very possibly, a scoundrel.

:D

Ahem - http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?42108-Help-me-choose-some-new-wheels-for-my-Brabus-Mercedes&p=712279#post712279

:ner:

Marco
18-12-2015, 17:49
Mark (YNWaN) also said the same thing (and before you, too)! :ner:

Like I said, the original Brabus ones will be kept. Always handy having a spare set of wheels. When I (eventually) sell the car, they'll go with it and I'll move the new ones onto the next car, unless it has even sexier wheels as standard.... ;)

One thing I want to do, is weigh the Brabus wheels against the ATS ones, just to see how much lighter the latter ones are, so I'll know the exact weight saving I'm getting. That'll be interesting :)

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 17:51
Here you go, just right for you Marco. :-)

https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=teddy+bear+alloys&client=safari&hl=en-gb&prmd=sivn&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjL6cf2--XJAhWLfxoKHdLzBMAQ_AUICCgC#imgrc=lzKdE6W4IHqO4M%3A

CageyH
18-12-2015, 17:51
You didn't expect me to read the whole thread did you?

CageyH
18-12-2015, 17:52
These would look "mint"

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NDY4WDQ2OA==/z/b-YAAOxyJX9SJbGP/$T2eC16F,!ykFId4j01rfBSJbGOpIRg~~60_35.GIF

Marco
18-12-2015, 17:53
Here you go, just right for you Marco. :-)

https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=teddy+bear+alloys&client=safari&hl=en-gb&prmd=sivn&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjL6cf2--XJAhWLfxoKHdLzBMAQ_AUICCgC#imgrc=lzKdE6W4IHqO4M%3A

Ha - quality! I might get them for Del :eyebrows:

Marco.

Marco
18-12-2015, 17:53
These would look "mint"

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NDY4WDQ2OA==/z/b-YAAOxyJX9SJbGP/$T2eC16F,!ykFId4j01rfBSJbGOpIRg~~60_35.GIF

Interesting, but me no wanty shiny silver.....

Marco.

CageyH
18-12-2015, 17:59
But they are spinners...
Next step would be this, so people can see them in the dark as well.

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTIwMFgxNjAw/$(KGrHqR,!h!E9p!Z2)57BPfTCNfRcg~~60_35.JPG

:eek:

:facepull:

:rofl:

CageyH
18-12-2015, 18:01
Interesting, but me no wanty shiny silver.....

Marco.

Are these better?

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GmNh4LRTVoQ/TZHXTWonl6I/AAAAAAAAAfI/HWWc-D4hqwY/s1600/Cars+Rims+%252819%2529.jpg

:eyebrows:

CageyH
18-12-2015, 18:02
I honestly think that there is nothing wrong with the wheels on the car.

Marco
18-12-2015, 18:03
Are these better?

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GmNh4LRTVoQ/TZHXTWonl6I/AAAAAAAAAfI/HWWc-D4hqwY/s1600/Cars+Rims+%252819%2529.jpg

:eyebrows:

Yes, very nice! But I still prefer the ones I've chosen :)

Marco.

CageyH
18-12-2015, 18:05
If not, something from here - http://www.brabus.com/en/raster.php?page=4&sub=4&klasse=149&modell=3644

Marco
18-12-2015, 18:13
I honestly think that there is nothing wrong with the wheels on the car.

Well, I can always change them back, when the mood arises! When the new wheels are fitted, I'll take some 'before & after' shots, and you can say which you genuinely prefer! :cool:

Marco.

Marco
18-12-2015, 18:22
If not, something from here - http://www.brabus.com/en/raster.php?page=4&sub=4&klasse=149&modell=3644

Yup, I've been on there. I love the Monoblock Rs, with the red bits - UTTERLY GORGEOUS! A tad more than I want to spend though, at just under £5k.... :eek: There are also some other nice wheels there, but none I'd have over those I've chosen, from ATS, although the Liquid Titanium ones are pretty sexy.

For me though, that car (and mine) needs predominantly black wheels, in order to preserve its brutal/bad-ass looks. When silver wheels are fitted, it just makes the car look too 'showy', and much like a hairdresser's mobile.

Remember too, that one of the prestige German wheel manufacturers (perhaps ATS or AEZ?) will most likely make the wheels for Brabus. Just as with certain 'marques' in high-end audio, the Brabus badge, in the automobile industry, carries a hefty premium! ;)

Marco.

CageyH
18-12-2015, 18:25
Cheaper without the red bits - http://www.alloywheelsdirect.net/mercedes_alloy_wheels/c_class_sport_coupe_cl203_alloys/19_brabus_monoblock_r_wheel_3756

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 18:30
A smoked chrome would look good I think Marco.

Marco
18-12-2015, 18:34
Cheaper without the red bits - http://www.alloywheelsdirect.net/mercedes_alloy_wheels/c_class_sport_coupe_cl203_alloys/19_brabus_monoblock_r_wheel_3756

Lol - you're determined to get me to spend more money! :D

Nice, but not sufficiently different to what I have now. It's a thought, though.

Marco.

Marco
18-12-2015, 18:35
A smoked chrome would look good I think Marco.

I agree. If I wasn't going for black, that's defo what I'd have :)

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 18:40
Bought a secondhand pair of alloys for the Jeep, they'll be refurbished as smoked chrome. Goes well with black methinks.

Marco
18-12-2015, 18:43
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHH. ....... The Monoblock R's are cheaper here than I was quoted (I suppose understandably) at my local Mercedes dealership:

http://www.alloywheelsdirect.net/mercedes_alloy_wheels/c_class_coupe_c204_alloys/19_brabus_monoblock_r_wheel_4491# :no:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/910/wfIpX0.jpg


Curse you Cagey, for throwing me that curved ball!!! :doh: :rolleyes: :lol: :D

:hmm: :hmm:

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 18:47
Like those mate, look good.

Marco
18-12-2015, 18:53
On a car:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/911/lKnoTL.jpg


Marco.

Marco
18-12-2015, 18:55
Like those mate, look good.

Yeah, they're drop dead...

Oh well, celebrating Christmas was always overrated. Cancel that goose!! :lol:

Marco.

CageyH
18-12-2015, 18:56
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHH. ....... The Monoblock R's are cheaper here than I was quoted (I suppose understandably) at my local Mercedes dealership:

http://www.alloywheelsdirect.net/mercedes_alloy_wheels/c_class_coupe_c204_alloys/19_brabus_monoblock_r_wheel_4491# :no:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/910/wfIpX0.jpg


Curse you Cagey, for throwing me that curved ball!!! :doh: :rolleyes: :lol: :D

:hmm: :hmm:

Marco.

:yay:

I'm always happy to help.

:eyebrows:

Marco
18-12-2015, 19:04
BASTID!! :upyours: :ner:

Marco.

struth
18-12-2015, 19:28
3 grand? are u insane:doh: sell you a whole car plus alloys for that :eyebrows:


Nice though

Marco
18-12-2015, 19:35
I know, but I'd set myself a budget of £3.5k, and those ones are within it... Do remember that the car new, with all the existing Brabus bits fitted, was over £50k, so that puts it into perspective :)

Marco.

walpurgis
18-12-2015, 19:41
3 grand? are u insane:doh: sell you a whole car plus alloys for that :eyebrows:

I thought £29 was expensive when I chewed up one of my Suzuki wheel trims. :D

struth
18-12-2015, 19:44
I know, but I'd set myself a budget of £3.5k, and those ones are within it... Do remember that the car new, with all the existing Brabus bits fitted, was over £50k, so that puts it into perspective :)

Marco.

that could buy me 200 bottles of my stock bourbon, and would last me ....a few months:doh: I suppose its not bad:D

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 19:44
Yeah, I got a set of alloys with tyres for the Jeep on Gumtree for 100 quid.. :-)

Marco
18-12-2015, 19:46
Better than spending it on hi-fi! :eyebrows:

Btw, in terms of the red bits, they would go with the red calipers.

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 19:52
The red would look good I reckon - like a painted side wall tyre.

Marco
18-12-2015, 20:06
The red would look good I reckon - like a painted side wall tyre.

Yup, but the Liquid Titanium is also seriously sexy:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/905/M8yK2h.jpg


Decisions, decisions!! :D

Ok... Who would go for the Titanium, and who would go for the baboon's arse red?


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/910/wfIpX0.jpg

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 20:20
They are both great, but as it's a Brabus and you're looking for a badass look, it has to be the baboon's arse..

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 20:21
Actually, those Titaniums would look good on the Jeep..

Marco
18-12-2015, 20:45
They are both great, but as it's a Brabus and you're looking for a badass look, it has to be the baboon's arse..

I know, but I could be convinced otherwise... There's also the Liquid Titanium Smoked:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/911/AlsDBk.jpg http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/908/GJOZMu.jpg

On a car:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/903/ERdxt4.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/p3ERdxt4j)


Lovely, but probably a bit too 'silvery' for me....

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 21:04
Uh, dunno mate, for me that last pic is the best yet. Looks stunning.

struth
18-12-2015, 21:07
That last one is a peach too

Marco
18-12-2015, 21:08
Uh, dunno mate, for me that last pic is the best yet. Looks stunning.

I know... They're growing on me.

It'll kill the 'bad-ass' look, though.... Hey-ho, I guess that I have to grow up sometime! :eyebrows:

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 21:13
No it won't IMHO, it'll provide a great contrast, with some of the spokes being darker. You could always get a custom look, have the darker spokes painted black..

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 21:14
.. And maybe even a red pinstripe on the dark spokes to match the calipers..

Marco
18-12-2015, 21:14
No it won't IMHO, it'll provide a great contrast, with some of the spokes being darker. You could always get a custom look, have the darker spokes painted black..

Yup, true..... I also get the feeling that the contrast doesn't photograph/show up very well, and in the flesh they'll probably look amazing.

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 21:16
Yes agree. If it were my money, that's where I'd be going.

Marco
18-12-2015, 21:19
And mine... Ok, I've made up my mind - the Smoked Titanium babies shall be mine! :thumbsup: :yay:

It's gonna be a poor Christmas now.... If anyone has a spare turkey leg and a tin of peas they can let me have, give me a shout :(

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 21:20
LOL, no worries mate, I'm sure the AOS membership will chip in for yer Christmas!

Marco
18-12-2015, 21:23
Heh-heh.... I'll be waiting until the new year to get them anyway. It's our wedding anniversary on the 22nd (as well as Xmas), and Del will want spoiling!

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 21:28
Teddy bear alloys? :-)

Marco
18-12-2015, 21:32
Ha - I don't need to go to the shops at all, do I? I just come on here and you and Cagey sort me out! :D

Marco.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 21:35
:D

Aye, we'll spend yer cash for ye..

theabbot
18-12-2015, 21:46
Marco

If You don't mind me asking what model is the car.

Thanks

Mike

CageyH
18-12-2015, 21:48
Ha - I don't need to go to the shops at all, do I? I just come on here and you and Cagey sort me out! :D

Marco.

Don't blame me! :nono:

It was your idea in the first place. :eek:

Marco
18-12-2015, 21:50
Hi Mike,

It's a Brabus modified Mercedes C-350 CDI Elegance. I posted a pic of the car at the beginning of the thread. However, you can also see it here on this video:

cruzGg2S75w

Apart from the fact that mine has all-black wheels, it's identical to that shown above.

May I ask, why you're asking? :)

Marco.

Marco
18-12-2015, 21:52
Don't blame me! :nono:

It was your idea in the first place. :eek:

Yesh, but you were a bad influence! ;)

Marco.

CageyH
18-12-2015, 21:53
That looks good with silver wheels.

Ali Tait
18-12-2015, 21:54
Maybe so, but the car will look stunning with those rims mate..

CageyH
18-12-2015, 21:54
Yesh, but you were a bad influence! ;)

Marco.

I disagree.
I just pointed out that the Brabus wheels you really liked were available cheaper elsewhere.

Marco
18-12-2015, 21:54
That looks good with silver wheels.

You just like shiny things - you're too used to it from sitting there polishing yer knob! :eyebrows:

Marco.

Marco
18-12-2015, 21:56
I disagree.
I just pointed out that the Brabus wheels you really liked were available cheaper elsewhere.

And for that I'm eternally grateful.... I think :scratch:

Marco.

CageyH
18-12-2015, 21:58
You just like shiny things - you're too use to it from sitting there polishing yer knob! :eyebrows:

Marco.

:rfl:

:upyours:

:ner:

CageyH
18-12-2015, 21:59
And for that I'm eternally grateful.... I think :scratch:

Marco.

I did a couple of similar things for Pinkie. :eyebrows:

theabbot
18-12-2015, 22:07
Marco

I'm thinking of changing my car and have been looking at used C/E class Merc's and if I could find a nice one perhaps a CLS, but I'm fed up of having black cars with a black interior, so have been looking at anything but black, but I do like the look of yours.

Mike

Marco
18-12-2015, 22:34
Hi Mike,

No worries. The standard version is also a peach, if you didn't want to go with a full Brabus pack, which adds about £15k onto the standard price. Both the C320 and C350 CDI diesel engines are up there with the best made, and are lightening quick (if you like to use their power), but also economical.

Even with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, on a long motorway journey, if I'm careful, I can get over 40mpg. And the 7-speed automatic gearbox is just lovely, in terms of how smoothly and intuitively it operates, especially if you're a 'driver' and like to engage with the car.

If you just like to drift along on the motorway, then with the cruise control on, and set at 75mph, in 7th gear the engine is only doing 1500 revs! So it's ultra quiet inside the cabin. You hardly feel as if you're moving, and the ultra-low noise levels and sheer smoothness of the engine (and ride), plus the really comfy seats (with various lumber and adjustment options), make for the most relaxing and stress-free long distance driving.

I go regularly to visit friends in Scotland, which from Wrexham is the best part of 300-miles, and when I get there, I feel as if I've driven less than 100 miles, such is the total lack of driving fatigue!

If you fancy the Brabus pack, then not only do you get all the cool aesthetic features, but it turns the car into a veritable animal! The engine is tuned to develop 350bhp, and can do 0-60mph in around 5 secs, with OODLES of back-thrusting torque! And with the sports suspension, uprated brakes and 19-inch rims, the car will handle that power utterly effortlessly and keep you in total comfort. The stainless steel quad exhaust system also gives the car a lovely engine 'growl', for a diesel.

I could go on, lol! Can you tell that I love it? :D

Marco.

theabbot
18-12-2015, 22:41
Marco
I think it will have to be Merc you're a good salesman, never seen a used Brabus come up for sale so might have to be content with a AMG version.

Mike

Marco
18-12-2015, 22:46
Used Brabus Mercs are rare, but an AMG will be a corker! :)

Marco.

Marco
18-12-2015, 23:09
There's a good video here of a brand new model, with a smaller engine than mine:

hhXsivRHW_I#t=11

The exterior is almost identical, the interior not so.

The inside of mine I think is classier, more understated and less 'blingy', without all those shiny black and silver bits [a look current Mercs seem to have adopted from the Americans], apart from the blue illuminated door sills panels, which the model shown in the video doesn't have, nor does it appear to have the 8 x downlighting LEDs (4 per side), which shine onto the ground when either front door is opened.

That looks really cool at night! :cool:

Brabus illuminated door sills (you can also see the Brabus sports pedals, which I have, in the background), along with the lovely soft leather seats [car shown is obviously L/H drive]:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/907/4TqMJe.jpg


Marco.

struth
18-12-2015, 23:12
Used Brabus Mercs are rare, but an AMG will be a corker! :)

Marco.

My brother has an amg. it is a corker.. lovely motor, but a tad low for me these days

Marco
18-12-2015, 23:23
Yeah, with the lowered sport suspension, mine is similar. The lower the car is to the road, the great sense of speed you get! :eyebrows:

I understand your issues though, bruv. Nothing that the electronic seats shouldn't be able to sort out, though!

Marco.

struth
18-12-2015, 23:27
Yeah, with the lowered sport suspension, mine is similar. The lower the car is to the road, the great sense of speed you get! :eyebrows:

I understand your issues though, bruv. Nothing that the electronic seats shouldn't be able to sort out, though!

Marco.

Yes the seats go up a bit, but not enough and the angle is wrong which is the mai problem. I prefer his land rover, but my motor is perfect for sitting in; you just fall onto the seat lol...your motor looks like your arse is dragging along the ground:D

Marco
18-12-2015, 23:36
Aye, it saves a fortune on bog roll! :eyebrows:

Marco.

Audio Advent
19-12-2015, 03:33
Heh-heh.... I'll be waiting until the new year to get them anyway. It's our wedding anniversary on the 22nd (as well as Xmas), and Del will want spoiling!

Marco.

Haha! I can see it now on the 22nd....

Del: Wow, what can this be! Thankyou darling! It's such a large box! I'm so excited!!!

Marco: Well....are you going to open it?

Del: I don't like to... I'm so excited!!

Marco: (watches Del's face to see the delight)

Del: (still, deadpan and trying to take it all in) Wheels.... ? Mar.. they're.. they're wheels.. ?

Marco: (Excited) Well!! What do you think! Happy Anniversary !

Del: How could you! (runs upstairs in tears...).

Marco: (still staring, wide-eyed at the shining rims, big grin across his face) I'll be up in a minute darling, don't start without me!

Marco
19-12-2015, 09:47
Ha - that's a scenario I'd quite like to play out, for a laugh. Thing is, I'd be the one in tears, as she'd crown me with them!! :lol:

Don't worry, she'll be happy, as we're going away to a posh country house hotel for a couple of days, where she'll be suitably pampered. That's one of the secrets of a happy marriage - making sure that both partners are contented, and that it's not 'all about' one or the other :)

Marco.

Havana
19-12-2015, 10:15
Make up your mind....do you want this forum to be Top Gear or Mumsnet ????

Marco
19-12-2015, 10:20
:lolsign:

Marco.

struth
19-12-2015, 10:50
Haha! I can see it now on the 22nd....

Del: Wow, what can this be! Thankyou darling! It's such a large box! I'm so excited!!!

Marco: Well....are you going to open it?

Del: I don't like to... I'm so excited!!

Marco: (watches Del's face to see the delight)

Del: (still, deadpan and trying to take it all in) Wheels.... ? Mar.. they're.. they're wheels.. ?

Marco: (Excited) Well!! What do you think! Happy Anniversary !

Del: How could you! (runs upstairs in tears...).

Marco: (still staring, wide-eyed at the shining rims, big grin across his face) I'll be up in a minute darling, don't start without me!
I did that once but with pots and pans ...she werent impressed but tried and failed to conceal it... After dinner i gave her a new video recorder.... Bingo![emoji2]

CageyH
19-12-2015, 12:04
Did you run this wheel decision past Westwood?

https://images-eu.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51nQeo-aTFL.jpg

:eyebrows:

User211
19-12-2015, 12:23
Westwood hasn't got a friggin' clue. If you're going to pimp - pimp!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpFFoTO2oXc

Marco
19-12-2015, 13:57
Ha - that's a riot! :D

Marco.

User211
19-12-2015, 14:18
Love to know what he paid. A lot. A really serious a lot, I expect.:)

Marco
19-12-2015, 19:57
Yeah, no doubt. It has a certain cool appeal, but I think I'd tire of the bling after a while!

Returning to things Brabus, it's quite funny seeing a huge estate car roaring around a race track, mixing it with proper sports cars, and certainly not disgracing itself:


W14ajh-bmGE


Must get one of those Brabus radiator grille badges, to replace the Mercedes one that currently exists. Think it'll compliment the car better :)

Marco.

Audio Advent
20-12-2015, 00:29
Must get one of those Brabus radiator grille badges, to replace the Mercedes one that currently exists. Think it'll compliment the car better :)

Marco.

Wouldn't it be better to have a big M on the front? ACtually might be mistaken for Mario as in Nintendo's Mario.

YNWaN
20-12-2015, 08:32
I hope the Brabus radiator badge comment was a joke Marco?

Marco
20-12-2015, 09:44
No, why? Don't you like that badge? :D

The rest of the car has Brabus emblems all over it, including on the bonnet and boot lid, so why not on the radiator grille, too? To the uninitiated, the only thing that gives away the fact that the base car is a Mercedes, is the Merc badge currently in that position! ;)

What do you think of the Brabus wheels I've decided on? They're rather different to what's on it now.

Marco.

Marco
20-12-2015, 09:45
Wouldn't it be better to have a big M on the front? ACtually might be mistaken for Mario as in Nintendo's Mario.

I'd rather have a big 'Z', for 'zoomer'... :eyebrows:

Marco.

struth
20-12-2015, 10:16
I'd rather have a big 'Z', for 'zoomer'... :eyebrows:

Marco.

Is that the mushroom type of zoomer or the golden....er....nugget type:eyebrows:

Marco
20-12-2015, 10:34
Hahaha... The big DAFTEE type! :D

Marco.

struth
20-12-2015, 10:46
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/20/f5e1755850bfda0314aca3b85411418d.jpg


Nugget from croc Dundee....goes nowhere without his big Donk

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/20/75625f3c4c311754bb1843d59d34db40.jpg

Marco
23-04-2016, 10:30
Bugger it, I'm going for the lighter Racelight:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/907/Q15pJV.jpg

Right, *THAT* is definitely it! Done deal :trust: :christmas:


Just to update this thread, for any car enthusiasts who may be interested...

In the end I didn't go for the Brabus 19" wheels, as it would've been madness spending £3k+ on them, so I went for the [expensive enough] ATS Racelight (above), and was assured by the company I ordered them from that they would definitely fit my car.

However, when they arrived and the mechanic fitted them, the front wheels were fine, but the rears were too wide (10" were sent, when I needed 9.5"), and crucially, were of an incorrect offset. This meant that they stuck out over an inch past the wheel arches! It just looked wrong, and more importantly, left only a couple of millimetres clearance between the rim of the wheel arches and the tyres, so any bumps I went over caused the arches to rub against the tyres (bearing in mind that the car has lowered sports suspension) :doh:

Furthermore, it was confirmed by the company who supplied the wheels that they'd made an error, and the ATS Racelight weren't available in the correct fitment for my car.

Thing was, I *really* liked the look of the wheels on the car (if I could sort out the rears), so what to do?

Yes, I could've got a full refund and ordered another set of wheels, but I didn't want to do that, so Kevin (the mechanic I use) suggested getting the rear wheel arches rolled and/or flared, in order to create a gap that would solve the clearance problem at the back. The company I bought the wheels from offered to pay for the work as it was their fault for sending me the wrong wheels.

I liked the idea of the car having flared rear arches, as I thought it would look cool and show off the nice fat 10" wheels, so he recommended a company to me who specialise in rolling/flaring wheel arches, namely Arch Enemy, who operate UK-wide. They come out to your house and do the work while you wait. I'd looked at some of the work they'd done in the past, and it was top-notch, plus they had a good rep on the Internet, so decided to go ahead and get it done.

Trouble was the guy who was supposedly handling the North Wales/Cheshire area, despite trying numerous times, never answered his phone (only a mobile number was given to contact your local rep), so I gave up on that and looked elsewhere, thinking that there must be loads of places near me, or in the North Wales/Cheshire/Wirral/Manchester area who would flare wheel arches. It turns out, no!

I tried phoning numerous garages and body shops, all over the place, but could find no-one in my area who did that type of work, or I should add, were willing to do it on a Mercedes. Fine, if I'd had a kit car, or something cheap for doing track racing, but no-one was willing to do it on my car, as the process carries a danger of cracking the paintwork, and getting that fixed wouldn't be cheap on my car.

However, there was one place in Wrexham who rolled wheel arches (not flaring), and that was Demon Tweeks, in Wrexham Industrial Estate, so I thought I'd take the car there to get their advice on what could be done to solve the problem. When I drove up to the depot, I could see a couple of guys looking at the car (which wasn't particularly unusual, as guys who are into cars often admire/comment that they like it), but when I went in, one of the guys asked me what I'd done with the rear wheels, as it just looked WRONG...

So I told him what had happened (he was really knowledgeable and helpful) and after examining my car, and looking at the rear wheels arches, told me the the lips on them were too thin to have them rolled, and they didn't do flaring, and if I tried to have the arches rolled, it'd very likely end up looking like a dog's dinner! I of course took his advice, and so it was back once again to the drawing board... What to do now? :hmm:

Well, there was only one available course of action, and that was to just order a new set of wheels - ones that would fit my car properly. Now you'd think that would a pretty simple task, wouldn't you? After all, the car is basically a Mercedes C350 CDI, so not in any way unusual - and the Brabus mods haven't altered the shape of the chassis, so getting a set of wheels should be a piece of piss, right?? WRONG!!!

And this is where offset angles come in (and bloody hell, have I learned all about this subject in the last few weeks!)... Apparently, my car is pretty fussy about these particular measurements, so while there is no issues in sourcing any number of matt black 19" x 8.5' front wheels, and 19" x 9.5" rears, getting some with the correct offset angle is about as easy as trying to find a virgin in a whore house, especially ones that I liked the look of and were of similar quality to the ATS Racelight....

Consequently, you wouldn't BELIEVE the endless hours I spent searching through 100s of wheel suppliers and wheels, trying to find something suitable, pretty much resigning myself to giving up on the whole idea, obtaining a refund, putting my old wheels back on and spending the money instead on wine, women and song!

Then, after about four full days of searching the Internet, I found some, and they were *just* what I was looking for: big, black and MEAN (and which fulfil all the fitment criteria), and from a company in America I hadn't heard of before, who specialise solely in wheels for Mercedes Benz cars, called Mandrus... Gentlemen, I give you the 19" Mandrus Rotec, finished in matt black (fitted to an SL-500, but you get the idea):


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/922/GUxzkp.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/pmGUxzkpj)

From the rear:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/923/bCn1O3.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/pnbCn1O3j)


Close up of the wheel in question:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/922/ECjlpy.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/pmECjlpyj)


Hey, it's even got an 'M' on it for 'Marco's Black Brabus Beast'... :D


Picture them on my car:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/923/LkKX2c.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/pnLkKX2cj)


I think they'll look suitably bad-ass...! :eyebrows: :eyebrows:

Info on the company who make them: http://www.mandruswheels.com/explore/

I'd never heard of this company before, but the Rotary Forged (more on that later) wheels that they produce for Mercs are the mutt's nuts, and are specifically designed to fit any modern Mercedes like a glove. Anyway, long and short of it is that I've ordered a set, which are coming in from the States in 2 weeks, and so after many weeks of hell, it's job done!! :yay:

Full pics and a report, when they arrive... :cool:

Marco.

walpurgis
23-04-2016, 10:42
I actually like those Mandrus wheels Marco. I like them better than some of those you've favoured previously. I reckon they'll suit the Merc.

Marco
23-04-2016, 10:46
That's what I thought, Geoff. If I'd known that they'd existed before, that's exactly what I'd have bought... :exactly:

It's funny how things work out though, almost as if I was destined to end up with them, but had to work bloody hard to get there!! :doh:

Should look fab, I think.

Marco.

walpurgis
23-04-2016, 10:49
When will they arrive?

Marco
23-04-2016, 10:54
10-14 days, mate. Can't wait! :)

Marco.

Marco
23-04-2016, 11:35
And on an S63 Coupe:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/923/H5MBNb.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/pnH5MBNbj)


Yum, yum! :drool:

They also look pretty cool in the first image shown here: http://www.mandruswheels.com/

Marco.

struth
23-04-2016, 13:27
Look good Marco.. Like the M. Lol. 15 spokers eh? Look forward to seeing the finished article :eek: being American do you need a stepup tx?

walpurgis
23-04-2016, 14:22
being American do you need a stepup tx?

No. But they only work on left hand drive cars. ;)

Marco
23-04-2016, 16:43
Look good Marco.. Like the M. Lol. 15 spokers eh? Look forward to seeing the finished article :eek: being American do you need a stepup tx?

Hehehe... Aye! The heavily spoked design has grown on me, and I think suits the car best, having initially favoured the fewer spokes, more 'open and exposed' look for the wheels. Do you think that works better too, retaining the 'mean and purposeful' appearance that I'm after? :)

One of the other things that sold me the Mandrus wheels was their Rotary Forged technology. Check this out: http://www.mandruswheels.com/explore/mercedes-benz-custom-wheels-rims-technology.php

Noting in particular:


Many Mandrus Wheels for Mercedes Benz including the Arrow wheel and Rotec wheel are manufactured using a highly advanced production technique called Rotary Forging. The rim of the wheels is forged at high pressure while the wheel is spun at high speed. This alters the molecular structure and enhances the strength of the alloy. The benefit is a much lighter weight than a regular cast wheel. Most importantly, the weight saving is in the outer rim of the wheel which dramatically reduces rotational mass and enhances vehicle performance.


The weight saving aspect, with the subsequent performance benefits, was one of the reasons why I originally went for the ATS racelights, but I the Mandrus are even lighter - ridiculously so (see second video below), so that should be rather interesting!

Rotary Forged process video: http://www.mandruswheels.com/explore/rotary-forged-wheels.php

This is a *must* watch... Check out the guy lifting up one of the wheels (a 20" one) with his pinky! [TSW make Mandrus wheels]:

2VI3Loh_08s

:D :eyebrows:

Marco.

struth
23-04-2016, 16:52
Couldnt do that with my alloys.. Yep, the spokes are fairly well spaced and thin so you should still see the callipers ok which was high on you list. Just dont kerb it, not that you will... I might though

Marco
23-04-2016, 17:20
Yup, that lightness has got to have a positive effect on how the car handles, etc, as well as on fuel economy.

When I have the Mandrus wheels fitted, I intend to weigh them in comparison with the ATS Racelight (which themselves aren't a heavy wheel) and see what the difference is, side by side. I still have the ATS fitted to my car, which I'm not using at the moment much until the new wheels arrive. Here's a pic of the ATS (fronts), with recently repainted calipers:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/640x480q90/924/c6kUmg.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/poc6kUmgj)


Nice, but I think the Mandrus will be altogether sexier! ;)

Marco.

User211
23-04-2016, 18:27
One point - I've got a really good tyre overhang with the GoodYear tyres on my car. What that means is you can't kerb the tyres without trying seriously hard. Simple, but genius. Will take a pic if you like showing what I mean. The guy who changed the rears was really impressed with that aspect.

Just making a point and a feature to look out for for future tyres.

User211
23-04-2016, 18:33
That S63 shot is awesome, BTW. Never seen it look so good TBH.

Marco
23-04-2016, 18:48
One point - I've got a really good tyre overhang with the GoodYear tyres on my car. What that means is you can't kerb the tyres without trying seriously hard. Simple, but genius. Will take a pic if you like showing what I mean. The guy who changed the rears was really impressed with that aspect.

Just making a point and a feature to look out for for future tyres.

Hi Justin,

Great point. Are you referring to the F1 Asymmetric 2s? They have built-in rim protection. If so, I've got those fitted to my rear wheels at the moment, which I'm testing against Pirelli P-Zeros, and they're superb! Quieter overall, and a bit grippier, too :cool:

What do you think of the Mandrus wheels I've chosen? :)

Marco.

Marco
23-04-2016, 18:49
That S63 shot is awesome, BTW. Never seen it look so good TBH.

Yeah, it's a belter. If I was looking for more of an out-and-out sports car, it'd be on my list! That pic would make a superb screen-saver :exactly:

Marco.

Marco
23-04-2016, 18:53
Btw, here's a pic of the rears, fitted with the ATS Racelight - you can see how much they're sticking out beyond the wheel arches (although it looks even more pronounced in real life), and how wrong they are:


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/640x480q90/924/qCayv3.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/poqCayv3j)


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/640x480q90/922/p0jRyR.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/pmp0jRyRj)

You can also see just how little clearance there is between the wheel arch (or fender, as our American friends would say :eyebrows: ) and tyre, and evidence of the arches having rubbed on the sidewalls of the tyre - not good, hence why I'm not using the car much (except for short journeys) until the new wheels arrive.

Marco.

Marco
23-04-2016, 21:05
Hi Justin,

Great point. Are you referring to the F1 Asymmetric 2s? They have built-in rim protection. If so, I've got those fitted to my rear wheels at the moment, which I'm testing against Pirelli P-Zeros, and they're superb! Quieter overall, and a bit grippier, too :cool:

What do you think of the Mandrus wheels I've chosen? :)


Hello, is there anyone at home? ;)

:popcorn: :popcorn:

Marco.

User211
24-04-2016, 10:11
Hello, is there anyone at home? ;)

:popcorn: :popcorn:

Marco.

Been making some bread, amongst other things.

Nope, I wasn't. And how does that work, anyway? Curious.

The Goodyear's on mine are Porsche spec tyres i.e. specific to the alloy, designed in conjunction with Porsche, as far as I understand it. They have a Porsche version number stamped on them, which is N0, but could be N1, N2 etc as they get revised. They haven't been revised - N0 is the only revision.

This overhang feature is only on the 19 incher's. The 20 inch don't have it. It just means the tyre side wall overhangs the ridge of the alloys by about a centimetre. So if you hit the kerb, you hit the tyre, not the rims. Simple, but effective. It isn't an uncommon thing to do but defo something to look out for.

User211
24-04-2016, 10:38
The wheel design looks fine BTW. Harder to clean than a five spoke but if you don't mind that, no issue.

Hope all turns out well, Marco. No pain, no gain - as they say:)

Marco
24-04-2016, 11:18
Been making some bread, amongst other things.

Nope, I wasn't. And how does that work, anyway? Curious.


Anyone who takes the trouble to make their own bread has my respect :)

How does what work, daftee?


The Goodyear's on mine are Porsche spec tyres i.e. specific to the alloy, designed in conjunction with Porsche, as far as I understand it. They have a Porsche version number stamped on them, which is N0, but could be N1, N2 etc as they get revised. They haven't been revised - N0 is the only revision.

This overhang feature is only on the 19 incher's. The 20 inch don't have it. It just means the tyre side wall overhangs the ridge of the alloys by about a centimetre. So if you hit the kerb, you hit the tyre, not the rims. Simple, but effective. It isn't an uncommon thing to do but defo something to look out for.

They're probably ASY2s, like mine, which also have the rim protection you describe - and yes, it's a useful feature. I'm just waiting until the Pirellis wear out on the front wheels before fitting the Goodyears there, so I'll be able to enjoy their full effect. Defo a quieter tyre on my car, than the P-Zeros, and has a bit more grip - a little cheaper too, so happy days! :cool:

Goodyear Eagle F1 ASY2: https://www.goodyear.eu/en_gb/consumer/tires/eagle_f1_asymmetric2.EAGF1AS2.html

Themz da boyz :)

Marco.

Marco
24-04-2016, 11:26
The wheel design looks fine BTW. Harder to clean than a five spoke but if you don't mind that, no issue.

Hope all turns out well, Marco. No pain, no gain - as they say

Cheers, matey. Cleaning, I enjoy (and indeed am fastidious about), so no issues there. Getting the new wheels will be something nice to look forward to :)

Btw, as an aside, have you seen the new advert for BT Infinity? The car featured on it looks very similar to mine (not sure if it's a Brabus, though), check it out:

ejQqKZXcRWg

I've tried stopping and pausing it numerous times, but can't quite make out what it says on the back...

Marco.

User211
24-04-2016, 12:02
They are Eagle F1's, but not that revision. Special Porsche revision.

Pirielli's last about 2 seconds, so it won't take long to wear them out. I got 28K miles out of my rear F1's in a rear wheel drive car. Amazing - never got anywhere near that. I'm doing a lot of miles. That car has 32K on it from new in 1.5 years.

Going up to Silverstone again soon to do some more messing around on the Porsche facility free of charge and my wife gets a go too. And we both get free meals in the very nice Porsche restaurant. They do try to sell you up... nicely. Merc? They never did anything like this and I had 2 SLK's from new off them. That's twice now I will have been on the Porsche Experience facility for nowt. Excellento.

BTW they provide the cars, too. Even better.

Marco
24-04-2016, 12:10
Sounds great, so enjoy! :)

I've been using P-Zeros now for a while, and whilst they do wear sooner than other tyres I've used, they've lasted a reasonable amount of time, on average £20k, for the rears - and my car is rear while drive, too. However, I think I prefer the Goodyears.

Have you tried Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s? They're supposed to be awesome, but it's one tyre I haven't used yet.

Marco.

User211
24-04-2016, 13:28
Just watched that BT video in 1080. It looks like it was shot at 360 for some reason. Anyway, yeah, maybe even more spokes on those alloys.

Michellin's - not that one. My memory of Michellin's is that they last well but don't grip. That may not apply anymore as that was years ago.

OK so I was being a bit unfair on the Pirelli's.:D

Marco
24-04-2016, 13:37
Just watched that BT video in 1080. It looks like it was shot at 360 for some reason. Anyway, yeah, maybe even more spokes on those alloys.


Could you make out what was written on the back of the car, in terms of model number? :)

Marco.

User211
24-04-2016, 13:41
Could you make out what was written on the back of the car, in terms of model number? :)

Marco.

No - low res, low frame rate relative to speed - too much motion blur.

What is it, then, exactly? Assuming you know.