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 HRE vs VMR.
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!
HRE vs VMR – Comparison Table
| HRE | VMR | |
| Year founded | 1978 | 2004 |
| Country of origin | United States | United States |
| Made in | United States, Japan and Taiwan | United States, Taiwan and China |
| Manufactured by | HRE | VMR |
| Build quality | High | Good |
History
Get ready to dive into the stories behind two wheel manufacturing companies – HRE and VMR.
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.
HRE Wheels History
HRE Wheels is a manufacturer of high-performance forged wheels that has been in operation since 1978. Here is a detailed history of HRE Wheels:
- 1978: HRE Wheels is founded by Gene Howell.
- 1993: HRE is sold to new owners.
- 1999: Alan Pertier, a mechanical engineer working for Northrop Grumman, steps up as the leader engineer for HRE.
- 2009: Alan becomes the president and CEO of the company. He is still in this position to this day.
- 2012: HRE Wheels introduces the Vintage Series, which features classic designs inspired by vintage wheels.
- 2014: HRE Wheels introduces the Classic Series, which features timeless designs inspired by vintage wheels.
HRE Wheels has been a leader in the three-piece motorsports and street performance wheel market for over three decades.
VMR Wheels History
VMR Wheels is a manufacturer of aftermarket wheels that has been in operation for several years.
Here is a detailed history of VMR Wheels:
- Founding: VMR Wheels was founded in 2004 by a group of enthusiasts who were passionate about helping other fanatics with their builds. The brand’s main headquarters are located in Anaheim, California.
- Manufacturing: VMR Wheels are manufactured in ISO-9001:2000 certified facilities, with a portion of the manufacturing and final finishing being performed in Southern California.
- Product Offerings: VMR Wheels offers a range of aftermarket wheels for various makes and models, including BMW, Tesla, Audi, Volkswagen, and more. The company is known for producing wheels that are at the top of their class when it comes to design, build quality, and long-lasting performance.
- Ownership: The names of the original owners of VMR Wheels are not mentioned. There is no information about any acquisitions made by the brand.
- Reputation: VMR Wheels has gained a reputation for producing high-quality aftermarket wheels that are both stylish and functional.
The company’s staff is dedicated to helping customers find the perfect fitment and design for their builds.
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.
HRE Wheels Manufacturing Methods
The manufacturing methods used by HRE are the following:
- Rotary Forged (Flow Formed)
- Forged
VMR Wheels Manufacturing Methods
In comparison, here are the different methods used by VMR to make their wheels:
- Rotary Forged (Flow Formed)
Wheel Series
HRE and VMR have a number of series available. Below you’ll find information about their current line-up.
HRE Wheel Series
- FlowForm
- Forged Monoblocks
- Forged 2 Piece FMR
- Forged 3 Piece
- CRBN
VMR Wheel Series
- Flow Form Collection
- Luxury Collection
Popular Models
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best-selling models for HRE and VMR.
HRE’s Renowned Models
- HRE FF04
- HRE R101
- HRE P101
- HRE FF10
VMR’s Renowned Models
- VMR V710
- VMR V801
- VMR V703
Price
Alright, let’s dive into the exciting world of wheel prices! We’re talking about HRE and VMR, 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.
HRE Wheels Price
HRE Wheels are generally considered much more pricier than many other aftermarket wheels, but the price range varies depending on the specific model, size, and finish. Here are some examples of HRE wheel prices:
HRE R101 Wheels: Starting at $1,900 per wheel
HRE P101 Forged Monoblock Wheels: Starting at $2,650 each
HRE FF01 Flow Form Wheels: Set of 4 priced at $2,400
HRE Classic Series 301M: Custom pricing starting at $1,400
VMR Wheels Price
VMR Wheels are generally considered affordable compared to other aftermarket wheel brands.
Here are some examples of VMR wheel prices:
VMR V701 Hyper Silver: Starting at $275 per wheel.
VMR V710 Matte Black: Starting at $280 per wheel.
VMR V703 VB3 CSL Style Wheels: Starting at $881 for a set of 4.
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 HRE and VMR, unlocking the promises they extend to keep your wheels spinning smoothly.
HRE Wheels Warranty
- Limited lifetime warranty to cover defects in material and workmanship
- Limited Wheel finish warranty for 2 years
VMR Wheels Warranty
- Limited warranty to cover defects in material and workmanship for 1 year
Advantages and Disadvantages
Before making a decision, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons that HRE and VMR 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!
HRE Wheels Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔High build quality | ❌Expensive |
| ✔Customization options | |
| ✔Lightweight | |
| ✔Wide range of sizes and fitments |
VMR Wheels Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Precision and craftsmanship | ❌Heavy |
| ✔Design variety | |
| ✔Effortless fitment | |
| ✔Okay build quality |
Final Verdict
The moment of truth has arrived. After exploring the ins and outs of HRE vs VMR, it’s time to put the puzzle pieces together:
When comparing HRE and VMR wheel brands, it is clear that HRE stands out in terms of quality, offering high-grade products.
With their exceptional build quality and reputation, HRE wheels are known for their durability and reliability.
On the other hand, VMR wheels provide good quality, although not at the same level as HRE.
However, the stark contrast between these two brands lies in their pricing.
HRE wheels are undeniably expensive, with prices ranging from $1,400 to $2,650 per wheel, making them a luxury investment.
In contrast, VMR wheels are considered affordable, with prices starting as low as $275 per wheel.
In terms of advantages, HRE offers customization options, ensuring that you can personalize your wheels to your liking.
They are also lightweight and come in a wide range of sizes and fitments, allowing for better performance and compatibility with various vehicles.
On the other hand, VMR wheels excel in precision and craftsmanship, offering a diverse range of designs.
They are effortless to fit and offer satisfactory build quality.
On the downside, HRE wheels’ high price point may deter some potential buyers, while VMR wheels are known to be heavier, potentially impacting overall vehicle performance.
Ultimately, the choice between HRE and VMR comes down to personal preference, budget, and priorities.
If budget is not a concern and you prioritize top-tier quality and customization, HRE wheels are the clear winner.
