American Racing VF-Series Wheels are premium forged wheels that deliver serious performance gains for automotive enthusiasts who demand the best. These wheels start life as solid billets of aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum and undergo intensive forging processes that create exceptional strength-to-weight ratios.
The american racing vf lineup offers custom-built wheels that match exact specifications for dimensions, offsets, and bolt patterns to fit your performance requirements. When it comes to pricing, the american racing vf545 model starts at $1,235 for the 17x7 size and goes up to $1,746 for the 20x15 configuration. The american racing vf518 begins at $1,097 with diameter options from 17 to 22 inches.
What makes these wheels worth the investment? The superior forged construction reduces unsprung weight for better handling, provides enhanced durability for track and street use, and offers extensive customization options that cast wheels simply cannot match.
We'll examine what sets these wheels apart through real experiences from owners who've tested them on track days, daily driving, and show car applications. From performance gains to durability under extreme conditions, this review covers what you need to know about American Racing VF-Series wheels.
The forging process sets American Racing VF-Series wheels apart from conventional wheel options. Understanding what makes these wheels exceptional comes down to three key factors: how they're built, what materials are used, and where they're manufactured.
Cast wheels use molten aluminum poured into molds, but American Racing VF-Series wheels undergo intensive forging that applies tremendous pressure to solid aluminum. This process creates grain structure alignment that enhances the wheel's physical properties.
The advantages of forged construction are significant:
Superior Strength: Aligned grain structure makes these wheels stronger than cast alternatives
Reduced Weight: Enhanced strength allows less material usage, resulting in wheels typically 25-40% lighter than cast equivalents
Enhanced Durability: Better resistance to deformation under stress and less prone to cracking
Precision Engineering: Forging enables tighter tolerances and more exact specifications
Cast wheels work fine for normal driving and cost less, but they cannot match the strength-to-weight ratio that forged wheels deliver. For performance applications, this difference matters.
Each VF-Series wheel uses premium 6061-T6 aluminum—an aircraft-grade alloy chosen for its exceptional properties. This aerospace material provides an optimal balance of strength, weight, and durability for high-performance wheel applications.
The "T6" designation refers to a heat treatment process that enhances the aluminum's natural properties. This treatment creates material that maintains structural integrity under extreme conditions, from track use to harsh road environments.
The 6061-T6 aluminum allows American Racing to create wheels with remarkable strength while keeping the lightweight characteristics essential for reducing unsprung mass—critical for vehicle handling and performance. Some VF-Series models feature knurled barrels to reduce tire slippage, with protective paint applied to prevent moisture-related corrosion.
American Racing manufactures every VF-Series wheel in the USA, reflecting their commitment to American craftsmanship and quality control. All production processes occur in American facilities from raw materials through final finishing.
This domestic manufacturing ensures consistent quality through rigorous testing. Each wheel undergoes extensive quality control procedures, including dynamic cornering fatigue tests, dynamic radial fatigue tests, and impact testing. These quality standards guarantee exceptional reliability under extreme conditions.
Explore the full range of American Racing VF-Series Wheels to discover how these American-made wheels combine advanced technology with classic styling for modern muscle cars and specialized track builds.
Every American Racing VF-Series wheel starts as a solid aluminum billet and transforms into a precision-engineered performance component through an intensive manufacturing process. The forging method creates the exceptional strength-to-weight ratio that sets these wheels apart from cast alternatives.
Each american racing vf series wheel begins as a dense aluminum cylinder made from premium 6061 alloy. The material undergoes thorough testing, including x-ray examination and metallurgical analysis, to ensure absolute purity before manufacturing begins.
The transformation starts when aluminum billets are preheated to optimal temperature for the forging press. The heated billet enters a massive forging machine that exerts extraordinary pressure—often reaching 10,000 tons—to compress and shape the metal into its basic form. This tremendous pressure fundamentally alters the aluminum's internal structure, eliminating porosity and creating a denser, stronger material.
The forging process for american racing vf wheels progresses through multiple distinct stages:
Preliminary Forging: The raw billet is compressed under approximately 4,000 tons of force into a rotationally symmetric piece
Design Forging: A second pressing at 7,000 tons imparts the fundamental styling and shape
Perforation: The final forging stage creates ventilation holes and hub features under 800 tons of pressure
Flow-Forming: The barrel portion undergoes additional processing where it's drawn down over specialized drums under intense pressure to create the final width and profile
The wheel's grain structure becomes radially aligned during this process—a key factor in the superior strength characteristics that distinguish forged wheels from cast alternatives.
After forging, american racing vf309 and other VF models require extensive machining to achieve their final form. Each forged blank undergoes precision CNC machining that removes 40-50% of the excess material while defining the final wheel profile. This machining process takes six or more hours per wheel and creates the distinctive aesthetics of the american racing vf300 and other designs.
The CNC machines perform multiple operations with exceptional precision:
Lathe turning to establish the wheel's foundational dimensions
Face milling to create the distinctive spoke designs
Side-milling to remove unnecessary weight while maintaining structural integrity
Final inner and outer lathe turning to achieve precise specifications
The machining process allows for I-beam or C-channel shaped spokes that maximize strength while minimizing weight. Each wheel achieves the perfect balance between performance requirements and aesthetic design.
Once machining is complete, each wheel receives meticulous hand-finishing. Craftsmen sand and prepare the surfaces before the wheels enter a vibratory grinding machine that ensures uniform surface preparation. The final appearance comes from a multi-stage coating process that includes a powder-coated primer base, followed by liquid color and clear coats for lasting durability.
What truly separates premium american racing vf wheels from lesser alternatives is the rigorous quality control process. Each wheel undergoes comprehensive testing to verify it meets exacting standards. Finished wheels must achieve runout (a measure of roundness) within .01 inches—approximately the thickness of three sheets of paper.
Quality inspections occur at multiple stages:
Dimensional verification against engineering specifications
Radiographic (x-ray) examination to detect internal flaws
Pressure testing to ensure structural integrity
Final visual inspection for any cosmetic imperfections
These exacting standards ensure that when you install American Racing VF-Series wheels on your vehicle, you're getting a product that performs as flawlessly as it looks. This intensive manufacturing process explains both the premium price point and exceptional performance that has made the VF series a benchmark in the forged wheel market.
The real story comes from drivers who've actually installed American Racing VF-Series wheels on their vehicles. Owners report measurable performance improvements that justify the premium investment across different applications.
American Racing VF-Series wheels deliver immediate handling improvements that drivers notice from the first drive. The forged construction reduces unsprung weight—the mass your suspension must control—allowing your suspension system to respond faster to road conditions.
This weight reduction creates more predictable handling and sharper cornering abilities. During quick directional changes, the reduced inertia allows for precise steering inputs that give you a more connected driving experience without any other modifications to your vehicle. The suspension maintains better tire contact with the road surface during cornering, creating that telepathic steering response performance enthusiasts seek.
Forged VF-Series wheels reduce rotational mass, which means your engine uses less energy to accelerate the wheels. Even modest weight reductions yield noticeable acceleration improvements. Some owners report that wheel upgrades provide some of the most tangible performance gains available for their vehicles.
The braking benefits are equally impressive. Lighter wheels require less energy to slow down, allowing your braking system to work more efficiently. You'll experience:
Shorter stopping distances
Reduced brake fade during aggressive driving
More consistent pedal feel during repeated hard braking
Owners running american racing vf309 and vf300 models note that upgraded wheels accommodating larger brake packages can reduce stopping distances by approximately 25 percent.
The superior strength of american racing vf construction maintains structural integrity under extreme conditions. Track day enthusiasts report that these wheels preserve consistent handling characteristics lap after lap, without the performance degradation that occurs with lesser wheels.
Street drivers appreciate the exceptional balance and minimal runout, which contributes to smoother operation at all speeds, reduced vibration, and more even tire wear over time. These characteristics become increasingly important at higher speeds, where even minor imperfections can create noticeable vibrations.
Check out American Racing VF-Series Wheels for your vehicle if you're serious about extracting maximum performance from your suspension setup while enhancing your vehicle's appearance.
American Racing VF-Series wheels offer extensive customization options that set them apart from mass-produced alternatives. The ability to create a truly personalized wheel setup makes these premium wheels the perfect choice for enthusiasts who want both performance and unique style.
VF-Series wheels are available in diameters from 17 inches up to 28 inches, with widths ranging from 7 inches to an impressive 16 inches on certain models. This extensive size range ensures perfect fitment for virtually any application, whether you're building a track-focused machine or a show-stopping custom.
American Racing provides four different fitment categories to match your specific build requirements:
SureFit: Direct bolt-on replacements that require no vehicle modifications with hub-centric designs and single bolt patterns
SpecFit: More aggressive OEM+ fitment that may feature dual bolt patterns and require hub-centric rings
CustomFit: Designed for modified suspension systems with aggressive sizing that can extend up to 3 inches beyond the fender
CustomFitEXT: The most extreme fitment option for vehicles with serious suspension modifications, extending more than 3 inches outside the fender
Beyond sizing flexibility, VF-Series wheels come in various finishes to match your vehicle's personality. The standard polished finish provides a classic, sophisticated look that showcases the wheels' precise machining details. Many models also offer additional finish options including gloss graphite and satin bronze.
For those seeking something truly unique, custom finishes are available at additional cost. These special finish options can completely transform the wheel's appearance and create a distinctive look that matches your specific vision.
The most personal touch comes through American Racing's custom engraving services. You can customize the wheel lip beyond the standard riveted look with either a smooth lip or personalized engraving. This option allows you to add unique text, designs, or logos that make your wheels truly one-of-a-kind.
Custom lip engraving represents the ultimate in personalization, creating a signature appearance that elevates these already exceptional wheels to a completely unique status that sets your vehicle apart from everything else on the road.
Real owners tell the best stories about how American Racing VF-Series Wheels perform on the street and track. These firsthand experiences show the actual benefits across different vehicle applications.
Muscle car enthusiasts choose the american racing vf series because these wheels deliver both performance and the right look for their builds. Evan Dalley runs VF545 wheels on his 1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS called "Blue Thunder." He describes his Camaro as an "absolute daily driver that's going to take out anything on the street" but still "very capable on the track". After testing multiple wheel options, Evan chose VF545 wheels in an 18x11" squared setup with brushed gold finish and polished barrel.
Track enthusiasts report excellent performance when they pair american racing vf wheels with performance suspension setups. The wheels provide stability and confidence that owners notice immediately. Evan's VF-equipped Camaro "plants the power" and "takes all the torque you can throw at it". The lightweight forged construction helps with quicker acceleration while maintaining consistent performance through multiple track sessions.
Show car builders appreciate the customization options available with american racing vf309 and other VF models. The ability to run up to 12" wide wheels with 335" tires gives builders the flexibility they need for aggressive fitments. Multiple finish options help match the wheel perfectly to the vehicle's overall design theme.
Owners consistently highlight several key benefits:
Exceptional durability for daily driving use
Outstanding weight-to-strength ratio that performance enthusiasts value
Strong overall satisfaction with performance and value
However, some owners report specific concerns. Black finishes can scratch more easily during off-road use. A few customers have experienced quality control issues, with one Reddit user documenting multiple replacement attempts.
Browse American Racing VF-Series Wheels for your specific vehicle to see why thousands of owners have chosen these wheels for their performance builds, daily drivers, and show cars.
American Racing VF-Series wheels deliver exceptional performance gains that justify their premium positioning in the forged wheel market. The forged construction creates wheels that are significantly lighter and stronger than cast alternatives, providing measurable improvements in handling, acceleration, and braking performance.
The extensive customization options set these wheels apart from mass-produced alternatives. Whether you need specific offsets for track applications or custom finishes for show builds, the VF-Series offers flexibility that cast wheels cannot match. The ability to accommodate aggressive fitments with wheels ranging from 17 to 28 inches in diameter makes them suitable for virtually any performance application.
At Performance Plus Tire, we've seen how these American-made wheels perform across different applications. From daily driving muscle cars to dedicated track builds, owners consistently report improved vehicle dynamics and long-term durability. While the pricing starts around $1,100 per wheel, the performance benefits and build quality justify the investment for serious enthusiasts.
The forged construction, premium 6061-T6 aluminum, and rigorous quality control standards ensure these wheels maintain their performance characteristics under extreme conditions. Most owners praise their durability and the noticeable improvement in vehicle responsiveness after installation.
Shop American Racing VF-Series Wheels now at Performance Plus Tire to experience the difference that premium forged construction makes. Our expert team can help you select the right specifications for your vehicle and performance goals.
American Racing VF-Series wheels represent premium forged wheel engineering that delivers measurable performance gains through superior construction and extensive customization options.
• Forged construction beats cast wheels: VF-Series uses aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum with intensive forging process, creating 25-40% lighter wheels with superior strength and durability.
• Real performance benefits owners notice: Reduced unsprung weight delivers sharper handling, quicker acceleration, shorter braking distances, and more responsive steering feel.
• Extensive customization sets them apart: Available in 17-28" diameters, multiple finishes, custom offsets, and personalized engraving options to match any build from track cars to show vehicles.
• Premium pricing reflects quality: Starting around $1,100, these American-made wheels justify their cost through exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, rigorous quality control, and long-term durability.
• Track-proven reliability: Owners across muscle cars, performance builds, and daily drivers consistently praise their ability to maintain structural integrity under extreme conditions while enhancing overall driving experience.
The investment in VF-Series wheels pays dividends through tangible performance improvements and the confidence that comes from premium American craftsmanship designed to handle whatever you throw at them.
American Racing VF-Series wheels are considered a premium investment due to their forged construction, which offers superior strength-to-weight ratio compared to cast wheels. Owners report noticeable improvements in handling, acceleration, and braking performance, justifying the higher cost for many enthusiasts.
These wheels significantly reduce unsprung weight, leading to sharper handling, quicker acceleration, and more efficient braking. The lightweight design allows suspension systems to respond more quickly to road conditions, resulting in a more connected driving experience.
VF-Series wheels offer extensive customization options, including a wide range of sizes (17-28 inches in diameter), multiple finishes, custom offsets, and even personalized engraving. This flexibility allows for fitment on various vehicles, from track-focused builds to show cars.
These wheels are known for their exceptional durability in both daily driving and track conditions. The forged construction maintains structural integrity even under extreme use, with many owners reporting consistent performance lap after lap on the track.
American Racing VF-Series wheels are proudly made in the USA. The domestic manufacturing ensures high-quality control standards, with each wheel undergoing rigorous testing procedures to guarantee exceptional reliability and performance.
