16″ BBS RS003 Wheel on my BMW E30 325i
The BBS RS wheel is perhaps one of the most iconic designs ever made. The three piece mesh wheel is at home just about everywhere – late model Euros, old school JDMs, on a race track, or on the show car circuit. The recent popularity of “stanced” vehicles have made the wheels even more desirable. It’s spawned a whole host of copies and replicas, but to the purist, the BBS RS – especially the 16″ version – is the undisputed king. The RS was introduced in 1983, and was finally discontinued in 1995. Recently, BBS brought back that RS magic and released the Super RS wheel – basically a 19″ version of the RS – to give a retro twist to modern cars.
19″ BBS Super RS wheel on a BMW 1M Coupe, pictured in SEMA 2011
I was fortunate enough to find a set of authentic BBS RS003 16″ x 7″ wheels (with the correct BMW offset to boot!) a few years back, thanks to my buddy Albert. These are my dream wheels, and I had them on my E30 for about four years now. I was in love with the RS, and with my Bimmer sitting on the 16″ versions, they just had that beautiful stance. Recently, I decided that it’s time for a change. The car is starting to race now, and it doesn’t feel right to risk damaging this ultra-rare set of wheels, so I decided to sell them. At the very last second, I was on the verge of breaking off the deal. That gnawing feeling of melancholy when you let go of such a big part of the character of your car is difficult to describe to the regular joe. I went home feeling down and regretful, but I knew it was the right decision.
My E30 project car’s last photo with the BBS RS 16s, in DTM Ph “livery”
Replacing them are a set of 17″ BBS RX wheels. While not quite as popular, the RX design is perhaps BBS’ most emulated design. For the E30, they represent a great compromise between looks and performance. Some refurbishing is required, but I’m still torn on what to do with the wheels – keep them silver, or maybe go with a gray center. I’ll get them refurb’ed as soon as I make up my mind. Feel free to make suggestions on these, or other color options, in the comments section below!
These 17″ BBS RX wheels are rough now, but should look pretty sweet once they’re re-furbished
I do have a slight issue with these wheels – they have a FWD offset (ET42). The e30 ideally has a ET25 offset, which means that these wheels will be tucked too far in the wheel well. Here’s a nice writeup about wheel offsets: Tirerack.com Wheel Tech
Diagram from tirerack.com
Fortunately, there is a solution for this. With some help from H&R Suspension Systems, I can put either 15mm or 20mm spacers. 20mm spacers will give me a net offset of ET22, which will push the wheels 3mm out. Not too bad, but I’m concerned that it may lead to rubbing during hard cornering. So I’m going with 15mm spacers instead, to give me a little room.
H&R hubcentric spacers to the rescue!
The 17″ wheels allow for more tire choices as well, and for those, I’m going with Bridgestone Potenza RE002 Adrenalines at 205-45-17, sourced from Bridgestone Tire Center Makati. Since my very first car (a 1994 Toyota Corona EX), I’ve been a Bridgestone guy, simply because they’ve never let me down. Not to say that other tire brands aren’t good, but Bridgestone never gave me a reason to switch. The Potenza RE002 is the new version of the RE001, which were the tires that went with my RS 16s. Wet or dry, road or track, they offer a great package of grip and comfort, at a very fair price point.
So now my E30 is ready for anything – street, show or track. I miss my RS’s, but the new shoes are making me feel pretty good. Bring on the next DTM Ph race!
Drive safe!