Ajax545

It is now getting close. I have a few more weeks until my car arrives.

I would like to get my wheels either chromed or polished. I have heard pros and cons for both.

Chrome chips, but is much easier to maintain and Polish is prone to dulling, but of course doesn't chip.

What do you guys think? Which looks better?

Thanks for your input.

Aaron

I feel that Polished is better than chrome for BMWs. It provides the car with a clean look, especially larger wheels with a lip. I have seen a couple of chrome wheels from Asanti that could possibly look OK on the E60, but polished is the way to go. Also, chrome wheels can't be repaired (unless in CA). Also, Once chrome peels, it is over. It looks ugly. Polished may take a little more elbow grease, but it adds to the look, longevity, and class of the vehicle.

Iceman

I wouldn't take chrome, even though I like the look, just because of the chips and peel off.

kscarrol

If you're looking for opinions, I'll add mine. I prefer the polished, but it's purely a presonal preference, not because of chipping/cleaning etc. In my opinion, the chrome looks better on a car that is more along the lines of a "street rod", and I just don't think of my BMY as being that kind of car. Again, just my view, but of course that's like me saying I like my silver gray paint over some other color. It's all a matter of personal preference. Go with what YOU like!

heezy545i

Most people will advice against chrome on a BMW, but if you enjoy the look than that's all that matters.

From the polished rims that I've seen recently, they look surprisingly similar to chrome. I actually would have thought the wheels were chrome had I not spoken to the owner. Side by side, the chrome has a bit more "spark" to it, so if you want that and the ease of cleanliness, then go chrome.

Will you be going with BMW wheels or aftermarket? If it's something aftermarket, I'd go with a brushed finish myself.

Ajax545

Hezzy55i: I was thinking of staying with the 18" style 124s and simply having them polished. The shop also recommends polishing vs. chrome and claims they can put a polish on them that looks as good as chrome and will maintain its luster as long as I don't clean them with anything other than soap and water. At this point, I am leaning toward polishing them.

kscarrol: I also ordered the silver grey. Do you have the stock wheels? Got any pics of your 545?

Thanks

DrT

Interesting - you rarely see chrome wheels in the UK, doesn't even come into the debate. I would try to customise my BMW with some non standard wheels to differentiate me from the rest. Whatever you do you will have problems brake dust like the rest of us !

kscarrol

Ajax, yes I do have the stock wheels, style 116 I believe its called. I did not get the sports package on my car as I was concernced about a rough ride due to the very poor condition of the streets here in New Orleans. I'll attach a picture.

browellm

Now that is a nice looking car