In this highly competitive world, very few classical cars have enjoyed decades of glory. One prominent mention is the C5 Corvette which has managed to become the face of the classical sporty American muscle car segment. It represents the peak of American muscle car design language since the looks have taken a plunge since then, according to many.
However, we all know that a perfect look is completed by its perfect constituents, and a very important component is the wheel. An excellent set of wheels can be a game changer for your vehicle in terms of looks and performance.
The Top 5 Absolute Best Wheels for C5 Corvette
If you are looking for a new set of wheels for your C5 Corvette, we have got you covered! Here is a list of the best options available today.
- Verde Custom Wheels Axis Wheel with Matte Graphite Finish
- OE Wheels LLC 17 inch Rim Hollander 5122
- Verde Wheels Saga Satin Black Wheel Finish
- Enkei RPF1 (F1 Silver) Wheel
- OE Wheels LLC 17 inch Rim Hollander 5146
1. Verde Custom Wheels Axis Wheel with Matte Graphite Finish
Will you just have a look at this beauty…
This versatile 20-inch wheel by Verde is one of the best options available for your C5 Corvette, and that too, without costing you an arm and a leg.
This amazing wheel has an appealing 5 split spoke pattern with a compact center cap featuring the brand logo. The spokes are raised outwards as they join the hoop, which provides this wheel with a moderately aggressive appearance. It is available in black, matte graphite and gloss bronze exteriors, so you can pick the one that suits your taste. Overall, the design of this wheel is perfectly suited to complement your C5 Corvette, and can entirely transform its outlook.
Apart from the appearance, this wheel excels greatly in performance as well. It has a strong cast aluminum frame which allows it to perform superbly even in challenging conditions. In addition, it also prevents the wheel from rusting. It is made using advanced engineering techniques that allow this wheel to be compatible with TPMS, providing a great deal of safety.
Moreover, it is also light weight, which allows easy handling and cornering. To top it off, this wheel has a much higher load capacity than its other counterparts, which means that you can perform relatively hardcore tasks with this wheel. However, its finish is not very durable and is prone to scratching, which is an area of concern.
For more information on this brand, check out our complete review of Verde wheels.
Pros:
- Excellent performance
- Strong and durable
- Inexpensive
- Backed by warranty
Cons:
- Finish is not durable
2. OE Wheels LLC 17 inch Rim Hollander 5122
One-piece chrome show stopper…
If you are more drawn towards chrome wheels, this marvelous 17-inch wheel by OE is an excellent choice for you. It has minimal designing which is untraditional and unique, and makes this wheel look luxurious. It has 5 spokes that get narrower as they reach the outer edges. The center cap of this wheel is flat and basic. All these features add up and provide an overall simple yet stylish appearance, which can make your C5 Corvette look regal.
The body of this wheel is made of strong cast aluminum, which is an ideal material for a wheel, as it imparts toughness and prevents corrosion. This means that the wheel is not only sturdy but also durable.
This is also true for the outer finish, which is done with great precision and can survive assault by sharp objects. Therefore, unlike most wheels of this category, this wheel by OE has the ability to withstand unfriendly and challenging conditions as well. Interestingly, it is also compatible with tire pressure monitoring systems, which is a great plus in terms of safety.
Furthermore, it is also surprisingly easy to install and control, making life easy for the driver. Although this wheel is highly budget-friendly, it does not include lug nuts which have to be bought separately, and can be a hassle.
Pros:
- Strong and resilient
- Durable
- Inexpensive
- Easy handling
- Warranty
Cons:
- Lug nuts have to be bought separately
3. Verde Wheels Saga Satin Black Wheel Finish
One of the most beautiful wheels ever…
Do you want your C5 Corvette to stand out wherever it goes? If you do, this unique and attractive wheel with 9 split spokes is your best bet. This 18-inch wheel by Verde is one of their most sought after products, credit goes to its unconventional build and superior performance. It is available in a glorious satin black and a hyper dark silver finish. The center cap is edgy and features the brand logo.
This terrific wheel is made of aluminum, which makes it robust and capable of performing tremendously even in difficult conditions, without compromising the safety or quality of the ride. Moreover, aluminum is also corrosion-resistant, which means that this wheel can survive a variety of weather conditions without affecting its life.
Advanced and innovative ideas have been employed in the manufacturing of this wheel, which provide it with even greater strength and safety. It is made to be light in weight which provides the driver with a much greater control over it and results in excellent cornering. The load capacity of this wheel is also relatively high, which is a rare quality for a wheel like this. Furthermore, it is also backed by a generous warranty.
Despite the warranty, the finish of this wheel is not very durable. Durability of Verde wheels has also been discussed in our brand review of Verde wheels.
Pros:
- Superb performance
- Aesthetically pleasant
- Light weight
- High load capacity
Cons:
- Finish is not durable
4. Enkei RPF1 (F1 Silver) Wheel
A proper lightweight racing wheel…
Enkei Wheels are known for their premium quality products, and this 18-inch wheel is no different. It has a catchy silver paint which is done with attention to fine details, making it look flawless. It has a conventional design with a balanced touch of modernity, which makes the overall look of this wheel unique. It has 6 sleek split spokes which add to its attraction.
This wheel is made of top quality alloy steel, which is a hallmark of Enkei. This material is known for the unmatched amount of strength that it provides, that allows the wheel to thrive in unfriendly driving conditions. It also improves the performance on roads and increases the durability of the wheel multifold. This wheel also has a thick lip, which aids in deflecting objects that can cause damage.
Another interesting quality of this wheel is that it is lightweight, making it easy to control. This also accounts for increased stability and easy cornering. Moreover, it is also backed by warranty.
Nonetheless, this wheel does not come with lug nuts, which have to be bought separately.
Pros:
- Very strong
- Durable
- Appealing
- Easy handling and stability
Cons:
- Does not come with and lug nuts
5. OE Wheels LLC 17 inch Rim Hollander 5146
After-market wheel with OE fitment…
If you are looking for a budget-friendly rim for your C5 Corvette, this one by OE Wheels is a great option. With a surprisingly low price range, it guarantees a performance that is at par with top notch established brands.
This wheel has an attractive black exterior that is shiny and can grab attention from afar. It has 5 awesome split spokes, that are widely spaced with perfect symmetry, which makes this tire excel on the aesthetic side. It also has a prominent lip.
Like all other ideal wheels, it is made of strong one-piece aluminum which allows it to perform superbly and provide a safe, stable and smooth ride. It is also resistant to rust. The construction of this superb wheel is done in a way that allows the driver to have increased control, and makes it easy to take turns and corners.
Furthermore, it is compatible with the tire pressure monitoring system, which provides additional safety during the ride. This wheel also comes with a lifetime structural warranty.
However, the lug nuts have to be bought separately for this wheel. Another issue with this this wheel is the weight which is significantly higher than the competition.
Pros:
- Catchy appearance
- Strong and durable
- Stability and easy cornering
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Lug nuts not included
How to get the best wheels for your C5 Corvette? Complete buyer’s guide
Although a plethora of options are available when picking wheels for C5 Corvette, it is necessary to look out for certain factors to ensure that you make the wisest choice:
1. Bolt Pattern:
Only wheels with a bolt pattern of 5×120 mm will fit a C5 Corvette, so it is essential to pick one with this pattern.
2. Rim Width and Diameter:
If you want the rim to perfectly fit your vehicle, it is mandatory to select one with diameter between 17 and 20 inches and widths between 8 and 9.5 inches.
3. Construction material:
The material of a wheel can greatly impact its longevity and performance. Aluminum is an ideal choice for wheels, as it is strong and durable.
If you are looking for the best wheels for your C6 Corvette, we have a complete recommendations list for that too.
