Wheel cost/benefit -- why do some 17x7 wheels cost $125 and others $600?
 

What does the $500-600 wheel do that a $129 Kazera doesn't? I like the looks of the Kazera KZ-R, but I wonder why it is one of the least expensive alloy wheels out there.

Why does a Prada handbag cost so much more than a K-Mart special? Answer: quality of materials, quality of construction and brand name value. Your answer is probably a mix of the three as well.

Quality of materials: different aluminum alloys have different physical properties (strength and weight), but overall the difference in price shouldn't be significant.
Quality of construction: one piece, two piece and three piece designs have a direct (and huge) affect on price. Casting or forging also affects price as well as quality of materials. Forging produces stronger pieces which can therefore be lighter in weight.
Brand name: Fiske wheels carry a certain cachet among those in the know. Other names like BBS, Rays, etc also hold a certian allure.
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The more expensive wheel is probably forged, which is made out of better aluminum (lighter and Stronger). The cheap wheel is probably Cast aluminum whick is much heavier. If your not going for performance just looks, go with the cheap wheel.

Pushing the limit on "there are no stupid questions!"
 

Thanks for the feedback. I am relieved that the less expensive wheels (they are all expensive) are not unsafe or something.

With cheap wheels, you often don't have a choice or little choice in wheel size and offset. If you have a Honda and want a 17x7 rim, no sweat. If you want an 18x9" rim with just the right offset so it fits your car right, you won't find a cheap rim of that size.

Having seen cheap and pricey rims, there is a big difference in quality, fit and finish, etc. But, a lot of the price is "car jewelry" - it's expensive, and they look neat :).

I would definitely not go *down* in rim width - you want at least the same amount of tire on the ground, if not more.

Dale