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 SSR 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!
SSR vs TSW – Comparison Table
| SSR | TSW | |
| Year founded | 1971 | 1960s |
| Country of origin | Japan | South Africa |
| Made in | Japan | China |
| Manufactured by | SSR | TSW |
| Build quality | Very High | Good |
History
Get ready to dive into the stories behind two wheel manufacturing companies – SSR 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.
SSR Wheels History
SSR is an abbreviation for “Speed Star Racing”, a Japanese-based wheel manufacturer with a long history dating back to 1971.
Speed Star Racing Wheels were launched by Speed Star Co., Ltd.
Now, their headquarters are located in Osaka, Japan.
Frequently acknowledged for pioneering the creation of a three-piece wheel with their groundbreaking MK-I model back in 1971, the company stands as a prominent Japanese manufacturer renowned for its exceptional line of aftermarket and motorsport wheels.
SSR played a significant role in driving the development of the JWL standard in 1973 and was instrumental in the establishment of the VIA third-party statutory board in 1981.
In 1985, the brand set up a new overseas office in Los Angeles as they wanted to expand into the US market. SSR’s office was specifically aimed at handling international sales operations.
SSR stood alone as an alloy wheel pioneer when, in 1991, it harnessed the semi-solid forging (SSF) process, a groundbreaking technique that the company would go on to patent.
Tanabe Co.,Ltd bought SSR in 2005.
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.
SSR Wheels Manufacturing Methods
The manufacturing methods used by SSR are the following:
- FFT (Flow Formed) & FFT-R
- 2-Piece Hybrid With Seamless Barrel
- SSF Technology
- HTM 3 Piece Technology
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
SSR and TSW have a number of series available. Below you’ll find information about their current line-up.
SSR Wheel Series
- GTX
- GTV
- Professor
- Reiner
- Minerva
- Formula
- Speed Star (Original SSR Designs)
- Executor
- Abela
- Blikker
- Devide
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 SSR and TSW.
SSR’s Renowned Models
- SSR SP1
- SSR GT3
- SSR GTX01
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 SSR 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.
SSR Wheels Price
SSR wheels are known for their high-quality and performance, which can make them more expensive compared to other wheel brands.
However, the cost of SSR wheels can vary depending on factors such as size, design, and finish.
On average, SSR wheels can range from around $400 to $800 per wheel.
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 SSR and TSW, unlocking the promises they extend to keep your wheels spinning smoothly.
SSR Wheels Warranty
- Limited warranty to cover defects in material and workmanship for 1 year
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 SSR 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!
SSR Wheels Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔High-quality construction, durability, and strength | ❌Pricey |
| ✔Aesthetically pleasing | |
| ✔Lightweight | |
| ✔Wheels that are suitable for both show and track purposes |
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 SSR vs TSW, it’s time to put the puzzle pieces together:
After considering the provided information on quality, price, and advantages of both SSR and TSW wheel brands, it can be concluded that SSR wheels offer a superior level of quality compared to TSW.
SSR wheels are known for their very high quality, construction, durability, and strength, making them a worthwhile investment for those seeking top-notch performance.
However, it is important to note that SSR wheels come with a higher price tag.
Their reputation for high quality and performance often translates into a higher cost, ranging from around $400 to $800 per wheel.
This can make SSR wheels a less affordable option for some consumers.
On the other hand, TSW wheels offer good build quality and a wide range of unique and stylish designs.
They strike a balance between quality, design, and affordability, positioning themselves in the mid-range pricing category.
TSW wheels also provide customization options, allowing customers to personalize their vehicles according to their preferences.
One aspect where SSR wheels excel over TSW is their lightweight construction, which contributes to better overall performance.
Additionally, SSR wheels are suitable for both show and track purposes, catering to a wider range of enthusiasts.
While TSW wheels may have some limitations when it comes to track use, their overall performance and stylish designs make them a compelling choice for those seeking a balance between quality and affordability.
In conclusion, if budget is not a major concern and top-tier quality is paramount, SSR wheels offer an exceptional choice.
On the other hand, for those seeking a balance between quality, performance and price, TSW might be a good enough pick.
