Rev up your curiosity as we introduce you to a wheel showdown like no other.
We’re kicking off with a comprehensive wheel brand comparison of BBS vs Konig.
Discover their origins, manufacturing secrets, and what sets them apart in terms of quality, pricing, and warranties.
We’ll analyze the pros and cons, ultimately answering the question: Who takes the wheel throne?
Stick around – it’s time to find out!
BBS vs Konig – Comparison Table
BBS | Konig | |
Year founded | 1970 | 1980s |
Country of origin | Germany | United States |
Made in | Germany and Japan | Thailand and Taiwan |
Manufactured by | KW Automotive GmbH, Washibeam Co. Ltd | YHI International |
Build quality | High | Very Good |
History
Get ready to dive into the stories behind two wheel manufacturing companies – BBS and Konig.
These brands didn’t just appear out of thin air; they’ve got histories filled with interesting twists and turns.
We’ll walk you through their journeys, from their early days to where they stand today.
BBS Wheels History
BBS is a leader in the automotive industry and is one of the world’s best manufacturers of OEM, racing, and aftermarket wheels.
It supplies the highest quality forged wheels to giant automotive companies like BMW.
Heinrich Baumgartner and Klaus Brand founded this company in 1970 as they were desperate to find a way to increase the performance of their cars on the racetrack.
Their development of the three-piece racing wheel grabbed the racing world’s attention and started going up the ladder from that period.
The warehouse in Georgia was established in 1983 and has been selling and supplying aftermarket wheels and other products.
BBS provides services to almost every major racing event too.
The three other facilities are located in Germany and Japan.
One of the warehouses in Germany takes care of the original equipment products and aftermarket wheels, whereas the other one is responsible for all racing and top-quality forged wheels.
The facility in Japan is where the infamous RS wheel was manufactured. This wheel’s design propelled them into having such a huge success.
In March 2021, BBS was acquired by KW automotive GmbH.
Konig Wheels History
Konig Wheels, a prominent player in the wheel manufacturing industry, boasts a rich history from its inception in the late 1980s.
Founded in California, USA, by a group of automotive enthusiasts, Konig quickly carved its niche with a blend of innovation and quality.
The company’s name, “Konig,” translates to “king” in German, reflecting their commitment to producing supreme wheels in performance and style.
Their initial focus was on alloy wheels, catering to a burgeoning market of car enthusiasts seeking enhanced aesthetics and functionality.
During the 1990s, Konig Wheels gained momentum by introducing cutting-edge designs that resonated with a diverse range of car enthusiasts.
Their wheels not only exuded a sense of individuality but also addressed the demand for lightweight and durable options. This blend of form and function catapulted Konig to the forefront of the aftermarket wheel scene.
As the automotive customization trend flourished, Konig Wheels capitalized on the opportunity.
By the early 2000s, their offerings had expanded to include a broad spectrum of styles, sizes, and fitments to accommodate various vehicle types and preferences.
This adaptability further cemented their reputation as a go-to choice for those seeking personalized upgrades.
Manufacturing Techniques
Wheel manufacturing is an art that employs three primary methods: casting, flow-forming, and forging.
Casting involves molten metal being poured into a mold, allowing intricate designs but with moderate strength.
Flow-forming merges casting and forging, spinning the wheel under high pressure to enhance strength without compromising weight.
Forging, the most robust method, employs extreme pressure to shape solid metal, producing lightweight and incredibly durable wheels.
BBS Wheels Manufacturing Methods
The manufacturing methods used by BBS are the following:
- Low Pressure Cast
- Rotary Forged (Flow Formed)
- Die Forged
- Magnesium Wheels (BBS Racing Wheels)
Konig Wheels Manufacturing Methods
In comparison, here are the different methods used by Konig to make their wheels:
- Cast
- Rotary Forged (Flow Formed)
Wheel Series
BBS and Konig have a number of series available. Below you’ll find information about their current line-up.
BBS Wheel Series
- Design Line (Cast)
- Performance (Flow Formed)
- Forged (Die forged)
Konig Wheel Series
- Konig Mainline
- Konig Flow Formed
- Konig Forged
Popular Models
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best-selling models for BBS and Konig.
BBS’s Renowned Models
- BBS RS
- BBS LM
- BBS E88
- BBS RK
Konig’s Renowned Models
- Konig Freeform
- Konig Hypergram
- Konig Countergram
- Konig Rewind
- Konig Dial-In
- Konig Dekagram
Price
Alright, let’s dive into the exciting world of wheel prices! We’re talking about BBS and Konig, the masterminds behind those round wonders.
It’s like a treasure hunt – each brand has its own stash of price tags, ranging from budget-friendly to splurge-worthy.
BBS Wheels Price
BBS wheels will cost you a lot more than other aftermarket wheels competitors. Their average price is usually between $300 and $1800 per wheel, depending on your choice of rims.
Konig Wheels Price
Konig wheels are fairly affordable.
Their Flow Formed wheels are one of the best value for money wheels available on the market.
Warranty
When it comes to peace of mind, warranties play a vital role in the wheel-buying journey.
Let’s delve into the warranty offerings of BBS and Konig, unlocking the promises they extend to keep your wheels spinning smoothly.
BBS Wheels Warranty
- Structural warranty for manufacturing defects for 10 years
- Wheel finish warranty for painted wheels for 2 years
- Wheel finish warranty for polished wheels for 2 years
Konig Wheels Warranty
- Limited warranty for structural manufacturing defects for 1 year
Advantages and Disadvantages
Before making a decision, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons that BBS and Konig bring to the wheel table.
In this section, we’ll take a close look at what each brand brings to the road – the advantages that make them shine, and the drawbacks to consider. Get ready for the full scoop!
BBS Wheels Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
✔High build quality | ❌They cost a lot |
✔Durable and reliable | |
✔Enhanced looks | |
✔Better grip and Improved fuel efficiency due to their lightweight |
Konig Wheels Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
✔Good quality/price ratio | ❌Painted wheels are hard to care for and they are not suitable for bad roads |
✔Original designs | |
✔Long-lasting performance | |
✔Wide selection of wheels to choose from |
Final Verdict
The moment of truth has arrived. After exploring the ins and outs of BBS vs Konig, it’s time to put the puzzle pieces together:
In the comparison between BBS and Konig wheel brands, it is evident that both have their own strengths and weaknesses.
BBS wheels stand out with their high build quality, ensuring durability and reliability. These wheels not only enhance the overall aesthetics of a vehicle but also provide better grip and improved fuel efficiency due to their lightweight design.
However, the major drawback lies in their price, as BBS wheels are notably more expensive than those of their aftermarket competitors. With an average price ranging from $300 to $1800 per wheel, they can be quite costly.
On the other hand, Konig wheels offer a very good quality/price ratio, making them a more affordable option in the market. Their original designs and wide selection of wheels provide customers with a range of choices.
Konig’s Flow Formed wheels are particularly noteworthy, providing excellent value for money. While these wheels offer long-lasting performance, it should be noted that painted wheels may require more care and maintenance. Additionally, Konig wheels may not be the best choice for rough roads.
In conclusion, BBS wheels excel in terms of high quality and numerous advantages, but their expensive price tag may deter some customers.
Meanwhile, Konig wheels offer good quality at a more affordable price, with a variety of designs to choose from.