While ordering your Tesla, the tire choice is one of the key considerations. You can either go with the standard Aero wheels or choose the larger Sport tires. To help you pick the right wheels, we’ll take a look at the Tesla Aero vs Sport wheels comparison.
Tesla Sport wheels are larger with more impressive aesthetics. They offer better handling and braking performance. However, Aero wheels are more efficient, comfortable, and longer-lasting. These wheels are less noisy and cheaper, with a higher load capacity and greater range.
Read on to find out the differences between Tesla’s Aero and Sport wheels to pick the better one.
Tesla Aero Vs. Sports Wheels: What Are the Differences?
From looks to range and comfort, Tesla’s Aero and Sport wheels differ in numerous aspects. Before we jump into the details, let’s take a quick look at the key differences between the two sets of wheels.
| Comparable Aspects | Aero Wheels | Sport Wheels | Winner |
| Materials | Less strong cast aluminum | Stronger forged aluminum | Sport Wheels |
| Size and Appearance | Smaller, not as aesthetically pleasing | Larger, more aggressive, customizable, and aesthetically pleasing | Sport wheels |
| Efficiency and Range | Offer more power efficiency and greater range | It is less efficient as it increases the drag | Aero wheels |
| Braking and Handling | Provide less control over the vehicle | Better handling and braking | Sport wheels |
| Noise and Comfort | Less noisy, more comfortable, and smoother rides | Noisy and less comfortable | Aero wheels |
| Tire Wear and Load Capacity | Less likely to wear and carry heavier loads | More prone to wear and lower weight capacity | Aero wheels |
| Price | Cheaper | Expensive | Aero wheels |
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Materials
Both Tesla Aero and Sport wheels are made of aluminum. However, different alloys of aluminum are used for different models of each type. While most Sport wheels are made of forged aluminum, most Sport wheels are made of cast aluminum.
Some models of both wheel types may feature different materials, so always check out the specifications before purchasing. Forged aluminum is stronger and more suitable for handling stress and heavy weights.
On the other hand, cast aluminum is lighter, moderately strong, and durable. Also, using cast iron wheels for some models keeps the cost low.
Size and Appearance
If you have a mind for great aesthetics and more Sporty looks, Tesla Sport wheels are undoubtedly the right choice. While the 19-inch Sport wheels are larger and heavier, the 18-inch Aero wheels are just an inch shorter in diameter.
Tesla’s Sport wheels come in various designs, enhancing the visual appeal of your Tesla. The larger size fills the wheel wells more prominently, giving the car a Sportier and more aggressive look.
Although not as aggressive, Aero wheels have a standard look, which you can improve further. All you need to do is remove the plastic wheel cover and install a wheel cap to conceal the ugly center hole.
Find out if Tesla Model Y’s 19-inch or 20-inch wheels are better for you in our easy-to-understand comparison. Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of each size to pick the one that suits your driving needs!
Efficiency and Range
Both Aero and Sport wheels feature a 10-spoke design where all the spokes are constructed from aluminum. The key difference here is the Aero cap that improves the aerodynamics of the Aero wheels.
Thanks to the Aerodynamic Aero caps, the Aero wheels reduce drag by 6%, which increases their efficiency. Due to their larger size and typically less aerodynamic design, sport wheels generate more air resistance.
This means Tesla’s Sport wheels drag more and travel less distance on a single charge of its battery. So, to reduce drag and increase power efficiency and range, choose Aero wheels.
Braking and Handling
As the Sport wheels have wider tires and larger brakes, they offer more control over the vehicle. With their lower-profile tires, Sport wheels offer better cornering and handling performance.
Moreover, Tesla uses high-performance tires to improve the handling performance of the vehicle further. Besides, these wheels are generally more responsive when it comes to braking and balancing.
Although Aero wheels offer good handling and braking too, they lack the Sporty and balanced ride quality Sport wheels can offer.
Noise and Comfort
Sport wheels are larger wheels with lower-profile tires. Therefore, they create more noise, especially at high speeds. Besides, the low-profile tires can’t absorb road bumps and other obstructions that well. As a result, the rides are often bumpy, stiff, and uncomfortable during long trips.
On the other hand, Aero wheels have taller tires that easily handle road noises and obstacles. Therefore, they offer quieter and more comfortable rides. This way, Aero wheels are more suitable for daily commuting and long drives.
Tire Wear and Load Capacity
With their taller tires, Aero wheels maintain a greater distance from road hazards such as rocks, debris, ice, etc. Hence, they take more time to wear down when compared to the Sport wheels.
The low-profile tires in Sports wheels are closer to the road, so they are more susceptible to environmental damage and wear. On top of that, Sport wheels are 2 pounds heavier than Aero wheels. Heavier wheels mean more pressure on the tires, leading to faster wear.
As for load capacity, Aero wheels are typically stronger and carry heavier loads than Sport wheels.
Discover how long Tesla tires typically last and learn simple tips to extend their lifespan in our helpful guide. Increase the longevity of your tires with practical advice tailored to your specific model!
Price
Sports wheels are larger and come with various design options and premium finishes. As a result, they are more expensive than Aero wheels.
When you order a new Tesla, Aero wheels are the standard option, and you don’t have to pay anything extra for those. To get the Sport wheels, you need to pay an extra $1,500. Hence, Aero wheels are definitely more cost-effective.
Pros and Cons of Aero Wheels
While deciding on a specific wheel, you must consider its good sides and drawbacks. Let’s discuss what makes the Aero wheels worth your money.
Pros
- Reduces drag and is more power-efficient
- The Aerodynamic design reduces wind noise and offers a quieter ride
- Made of high-quality forged aluminum that handles heavy loads
- Provide a smoother ride due to the focus on comfort and efficiency
- Comes as standard with all Tesla models without any extra cost
Cons
- Visually less appealing and Sporty compared to other wheel options
- Offer fewer design choices and personalization choices
Pros and Cons of Sport Wheels
Now it’s time to check out the features of the Sport wheels. Here’s what makes them a good choice and some notable drawbacks:
Pros
- Available in various eye-catching designs, enhancing the visual appeal of the vehicle
- Come with high-performance tires constructed from top-quality materials
- Offer great handling and control over the vehicle
- Better choice for cornering and reducing braking distance
- It can be customized based on your personal preferences
Cons
- Costs $1,500 extra
- Not as smooth and comfortable as the Aero wheels
FAQs
In this section, we’ll answer some common queries regarding the quality and performance of Aero and Sport wheels.
As Aero wheels are lighter (23 pounds), they have a low moment of inertia. Hence, they move faster and pick up speed quicker. Besides, Aero wheels are designed to reduce aerodynamic drag. As a result, they face less air resistance while moving, which results in faster movement.
No, you can’t swap factory-installed Aero wheels with Sport wheels on any Tesla, as Sport wheels aren’t compatible with Tesla models. For example, Tesla’s performance cars, including Model 3 Performance and Model Y Performance, aren’t compatible with their Sport wheels.
Besides, 19-inch Sport wheels are larger than 17-inch Aero wheels. So, you can’t put larger wheels on a car designed for smaller wheels.
Yes, Sport wheels might deliver higher top speed than Aero wheels due to their larger size. However, the difference isn’t very noticeable. Sport wheels are larger and heavier, so they increase your Tesla’s top speed. Remember, with Sport wheels, your Tesla might take more time for acceleration.
Final Verdict
Now it’s time to settle the Tesla Aero vs Sport Wheels debate. From all its features and performance overview, we can summarize that the Aero wheel is the better option for all types of drivers. It goes a long way with a single charge, creates less noise, and has a longer lifespan.
Best of all, you don’t have to pay any additional charges, and they are more suitable for daily use. However, if you prefer high-performance tires and a Sporty look, go with Sport wheels instead. They are more customizable and offer the best aesthetics out of all Tesla wheels.
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