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 XXR.
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 XXR – Comparison Table
| BBS | XXR | |
| Year founded | 1970 | 1976 |
| Country of origin | Germany | Taiwan |
| Made in | Germany and Japan | Taiwan |
| Manufactured by | KW Automotive GmbH, Washibeam Co. Ltd | XXR |
| Build quality | High | Good |
History
Get ready to dive into the stories behind two wheel manufacturing companies – BBS and XXR.
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.
XXR Wheels History
XXR was founded in 1976. That’s right; the company is older than you think!
XXR has been in the wheel designing and manufacturing business for over 45 years.
They established their first wheel factory in 1978 and started to export their wheels to Japan in 1983.
As we all know, the Japanese prefer the Japanese Domestic Market. So, creating aftermarket wheels and exporting them to Japan was certainly a bold move.
However, due to their good quality and affordable price tags, XXR wheels became popular in Japan in no time.
As a result, the company launched its 2nd factory in 1987 to fulfill its goals. After founding its 3rd factory in 1992, the company started to manufacture wheels for the US market.
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)
XXR Wheels Manufacturing Methods
In comparison, here are the different methods used by XXR to make their wheels:
- Squeeze Casting
- Forged
Wheel Series
BBS and XXR 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)
XXR Wheel Series
- XXR Squeeze Casting Series
- XXR Forged Series
Popular Models
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best-selling models for BBS and XXR.
BBS’s Renowned Models
- BBS RS
- BBS LM
- BBS E88
- BBS RK
XXR’s Renowned Models
- XXR 527
- XXR 530
- XXR 531
- XXR 521
- XXR 526
Price
Alright, let’s dive into the exciting world of wheel prices! We’re talking about BBS and XXR, 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.
XXR Wheels Price
XXR Wheels are generally considered to be more affordable compared to some other aftermarket wheel brands.
They are known for offering a wide range of styles and sizes at competitive price points.
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 XXR, 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
XXR 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 XXR 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 |
XXR Wheels Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Affordable | ❌Users reporting issues such as bending or cracking |
| ✔Unique and stylish designs | |
| ✔Fitment options | |
| ✔Fairly lightweight |
Final Verdict
The moment of truth has arrived. After exploring the ins and outs of BBS vs XXR, it’s time to put the puzzle pieces together:
When it comes to the comparison between BBS and XXR wheel brands, the choice ultimately depends on your priorities and budget.
BBS wheels undeniably excel in terms of quality, boasting high build standards that ensure durability and reliability. With their enhanced looks, better grip, and improved fuel efficiency due to their lightweight construction, BBS wheels are a premium choice for discerning enthusiasts.
However, this quality comes at a substantial cost, with prices ranging from $300 to $1800 per wheel.
On the other hand, XXR wheels offer a good level of quality at a more affordable price point. With a wide range of styles and sizes available, they provide customers with unique and stylish designs to suit their preferences.
XXR wheels also offer fitment options to cater to different vehicle requirements, making them a versatile choice for enthusiasts. Despite their affordability, some users have reported issues such as bending or cracking, which raises concerns about their long-term durability.
In summary, if budget is not a significant constraint, BBS wheels stand out for their exceptional quality, reliability, and performance benefits.
However, for those looking for more affordable options that still offer decent quality and style, XXR wheels provide a competitive alternative.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on your priorities, whether it’s prioritizing premium quality or finding a balance between quality and cost.
