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 TSW.
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 TSW – Comparison Table
| BBS | TSW | |
| Year founded | 1970 | 1960s |
| Country of origin | Germany | South Africa |
| Made in | Germany and Japan | China |
| Manufactured by | KW Automotive GmbH, Washibeam Co. Ltd | TSW |
| Build quality | High | Good |
History
Get ready to dive into the stories behind two wheel manufacturing companies – BBS and TSW.
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.
TSW Wheels History
TSW stands as one of the pioneering names in the realm of aftermarket alloy wheels worldwide. Its origins trace back to the 1960s when Eddie Keizan, a former Formula One racing driver, laid the foundation.
The initial incarnation of TSW was Tiger Sports Wheels, which found its footing with retail outlets housed within a modest manufacturing facility in South Africa.
The 1980s brought a significant turning point as TSW Alloy Wheels transitioned into the public sphere, listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and propelling into a phase of expansive manufacturing growth.
The brand’s influence stretched across the globe, forging alliances with prominent car manufacturers on a global scale.
Over the ensuing two decades, strategic acquisitions including the integration of Germany’s ATS Wheels and other strategic expansions resulted in the establishment of production hubs in Germany, Poland, South Africa, and the United States.
In 2001, TSW took a pivotal step, partitioning its aftermarket wheel endeavors from its original equipment wheel production, which retained the Tiger Wheel and ATS monikers.
The Americas’ aftermarket operation found a new helm in Terence Scheckter, its former leader, while the European aftermarket wing was acquired by Yokohama Tire of South Africa.
From this juncture, TSW Alloy Wheels in the United States embarked on a comprehensive transformation.
Their product lineup underwent a thorough revamping, accompanied by a substantial diversification of wheel offerings.
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)
TSW Wheels Manufacturing Methods
In comparison, here are the different methods used by TSW to make their wheels:
- Cast
- Rotary Forged (Flow Formed)
Wheel Series
BBS and TSW 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)
TSW Wheel Series
- TSW Cast Wheels Series
- TSW Rotary Forged Wheels Series
Popular Models
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best-selling models for BBS and TSW.
BBS’s Renowned Models
- BBS RS
- BBS LM
- BBS E88
- BBS RK
TSW’s Renowned Models
- TSW Bathurst
- TSW Chicane
- TSW Donington
- TSW Max
- TSW Mechanica
- TSW Nurburgring
Price
Alright, let’s dive into the exciting world of wheel prices! We’re talking about BBS and TSW, 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.
TSW Wheels Price
TSW wheels are considered to be mid-range in terms of pricing.
They tend to offer a balance between quality, design, and affordability.
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 TSW, 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
TSW Wheels Warranty
- Lifetime structural warranty
- Limited warranty on finish and clear coat against manufacturer defects for 1 year
Advantages and Disadvantages
Before making a decision, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons that BBS and TSW 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 |
TSW Wheels Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Good build quality | ❌Limited track use |
| ✔Wide range of unique and stylish designs | |
| ✔Customization options | |
| ✔Fairly affordable |
Final Verdict
The moment of truth has arrived. After exploring the ins and outs of BBS vs TSW, it’s time to put the puzzle pieces together:
When considering the wheel brands BBS and TSW, it becomes clear that BBS offers a higher level of quality compared to TSW.
BBS wheels are known for their exceptional build quality, providing durability and reliability to users. Additionally, BBS wheels enhance the aesthetics of any vehicle, adding a touch of sophistication.
Furthermore, their lightweight construction improves grip and fuel efficiency, making them a desirable choice for performance-oriented individuals.
However, the main drawback of BBS wheels lies in their price. With an average cost ranging from $300 to $1800 per wheel, BBS wheels are significantly more expensive than their competitors.
On the other hand, TSW wheels offer good quality and a wide range of unique and stylish designs. These wheels strike a balance between quality, design, and affordability, making them a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.
TSW also provides customization options, allowing customers to personalize their wheels to suit their preferences.
One limitation of TSW wheels is their limited track use, which can be a drawback for those who participate in racing or require wheels with specific track-oriented features.
In conclusion, while BBS wheels excel in terms of quality, durability, and performance benefits, the considerable price difference may sway some buyers towards TSW wheels.
TSW offers good quality, stylish designs, and affordability, making them a solid choice for those seeking a balance between price and aesthetics.
