Enkei Tuning Vs. Performance Wheels: Which One To Pick?

You’re in the market for new wheels and utterly overwhelmed by the many options available. And you have all these questions roaming in your mind. Which type should I get? How do I decide?

Good thing I have a plan in place! This is what I’m talking about. Enkei Tuning provides a one-year warranty and four years on forged wheels, while Performance offers a lifetime warranty.

Tuning uses Durville Die Casting technology that involves changing molten metal into a mold cavity, whereas Performance uses MAT, which creates wheels by spinning.

And guess what, peeps? That’s just the thin edge of the wedge, so read on!

A Brief Comparison Table

Product SpecificationEnkei TuningPerformance
Technology UsedDurville die castingMAT
Weight19-20 pounds28 pounds
Number of Wheels Made1928
QualityGoodExceptional
DurabilityGoodExcellent
CostLowerHigher
Available Wheel Size17, 18, 19 inchesFrom 15 to 20 inches
Manufacturing PointJapan, China, Thailand, USA, Taiwan, IndonesiaJapan
Warranty TermOne year- wheel finish, Four years- chrome finish on forged wheelsLifetime

Critical Differences Between Enkei Tuning And Performance Wheels

  • Technology Used
Enkei T6R Tuning Series Six Spoke Wheel
Enkei T6R Tuning Series Six Spoke Wheel

Tuning and Performance are two sibling wheels with different haircuts, as the technology varies.

The former implements the Durville Die Casting technique, which entails putting the molten aluminum onto the inner rim of the mold with the disc positioned downward.

This process gives the wheels remarkable strength.

In contrast, Performance adopts MAT technology that uses a spinning system to create the most advanced and innovative wheels.

Also Read: Differences Between Accuride And Alcoa Wheels.

  • Weight

Are you looking for the lightest wheels there are?

You are in the right place! Enkei Tuning has 10 to 15% more lightweight wheels than other brands. The weight ranges between 19 to 20 pounds. Anyone who has been on the road long enough knows that the lighter they are, the speed and the greater the control.

On the contrary, Performance has wheels weighing 28 pounds. Now, the best thing about heavier wheels is that the stability is excellent. So, these are the way to go if you are into stable rides and better handling.

  • Number of Wheels Made

Enkei Tuning has 19 versions of wheels, all of which have different quality, structure, durability, and cost. Triumph is the newest series, which costs slightly higher and has more advanced features.

Additionally, this latest model is available in matte bronze, gloss black, and storm gray finishes.

Inversely, Performance has 28 series of wheels produced. You’ll have more color options, multiple features to select from, and different prices.

Overlander is the most recent and is available in 17 and 18 inches. The finish types are matte gunmetal, matte black, and matte bronze.

  • Quality

Enkei Tuning designs ten-spoke lightweight wheels that undergo a series of manufacturing steps to improve their strength and quality. The design used in the making gives a simple yet sophisticated look.

But if you are looking for the best quality, Performance is the answer. This multispoked wheel model has a rouged rally structure, making it the best fit for sports cars.

  • Stiffness

Judging from the weights of the two wheels, can you tell which is stiffer? Remember, the heavier it is, the more rigid and stable it gets. Enkei Tuning is less stiff since it’s super light.

In contrast, Performance wheels are much stiff; hence, their stability is on another level. So, are you concerned about steadiness or speed?

  • Cost

Does Tuning and Performance wheel cost the same? Short answer, no! For Enkei Tuning, you can get it for around $321. On the other hand, Performance costs $429.

If you’re under budget, there is something for you. Performance is the prize if you want the best quality and are ready to pay the price.

  • Available Wheel Size
Enkei Performance Wheel
Enkei Performance Wheel

Which wheel size are you looking for?

Either way, with the multiple options available, I’m sure you’ll get whichever you prefer.

With Enkei Tuning, the available sizes are 17, 18, and 19 inches.

On the flip side, Enkei Performance has more sizes available, from 15 to 20 inches.

Performance is perfect if your car is compatible with a small wheel.

In other words, this version comes with more options, with no limitation whatsoever.

  • Manufacturing Point

Enkei Tuning wheels are made in various countries, which include Thailand, Taiwan, China, the USA, Japan, and Indonesia. Do you know what this means? You can quickly get them as they are available in various places.

Conversely, Enkei Performance is made solely in Japan. But you can still find it in other places. The thing is, you will get it slower than you hoped.

  • Warranty Term

Regarding warranty, you have nothing to worry about regarding Enkei. Tuning offers a one-year warranty that covers damages and craft on the wheel finish.

Also, it takes liability for the chrome finish on forged wheels for four years from the date of purchase.

On the other hand, Performance provides a lifetime warranty. You never have to be concerned about returning to your pockets to deal with defects in the material. It seems too good to be true, but it is a reality.

Here is a little demo of the performance series for you!

Which Wheel Is Worth It?

I admit it’s confusing to decide, but where there is a will, there is a way, so worry not. Enkei Tuning is the best pick if you plan to spend less. Also, these wheels are light; hence you are assured of fast speeds.

On the other hand, Enkei Performance has the best quality, provides stiffness and stability, and offers a lifetime warranty.

Also Read: Differences Between Michelin And Les Schwab Tires.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Enkei Performance?

Enkei Performance is a brand of wheels with a unique and complex design that ensures the latest and upgraded versions are made to provide exceptional Performance.

Where is Enkei tuning made?

Enkei Tuning wheels are made in Japan, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, and the USA.

Are Enkei wheels cast or forged?

Enkei adopts innovative technology to create the best and strongest cast aluminum wheels. And that’s not all. The brand also manufactures forged wheels using aluminum and silicone, then inserting a ton of force.

Are Enkei wheels strong?

Enkei wheels have a robust construction that makes them sturdy and firm by 15 to 20%.

Final Remarks

How fast time flies! I can’t believe we’ve come to the end of the Enkei Tuning and Performance comparison.

But the good thing is that you no longer think they are the same wheel. As you can see, they are pretty different and, not to forget, impressive.

If you are looking for a lightweight wheel with the excellent speed at an affordable cost, stop looking! Enkei Tuning is more than enough.

But if you are more of a quality person and want the most extended warranty available, Enkei Performance has your back. Once you try out Enkei, there is no going back!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.