im going to purchase a set of z06 wheels in the future and want to know the difference in chrome and polished....what are the pros and cons.....which type should i go with......

should i get 17x9.5's all the way around or

should i get 18x9.5's all the way around....
(what size tires should i go with to get zero rubbing)

thanks

 

Chrome is well...chrome.

Polished is like polished aluminum, looks like satin finish. Basically just shiny metal.

 

Chromed wheels are electroplated with chrome...a big process involving dipping the wheel, copper anodyzing and then chrome plating.

Polished wheels involve smooth sanding of steel (aluminum is now common) into a smooth shine.

Chrome:
Pros-Chrome has a more brilliant shine, slightly easier to maintain, and is readily available.

Cons- Aside from the shine, it will not go smoothly with every color, to a lot of people's surprise. Chrome must be maintained, being that chrome has a tendency to rust, tarnish, and chip. Plating services are not widely available. Chrome is less forgiving to accidental streaks and scratches.

Polished:
Pros: You can vary the texture of the polished surface from machined (which can have a patterned or coarse finish) to highly polished, which will shine almost as brilliantly as chrome. Polished wheels will not chip or show rust. It is my opinion, but polished tends to have more flexibility in its compatibility with various colors. Polished surfaces can be tolerant to moderate neglect, and responds enthusiastically to polishing and maintenance. Light streaks and scratches can be worked out of polished textures.

Cons: Highly polished textures demand maintenance (even with clearcoat). Polished wheels do oxidize, with the worse cases being white powdery residue on wheels if neglected.

Polished wheels are not necessarily cheaper than chrome. I've seen several examples of new rim sets and professionally polished sets costing significantly higher than chromed rim sets. Polished wheels are often confused for chrome.

Your choice in either polished or chrome will lay heavily on your car's outfit, and how compatible each surface will be to it. Other factors that will affect your choice includes cost, convenience, and availability. Good luck. Fun, isn't it?