Volk Racing TE37SL vs Gram Lights 57DR: Wheel Comparison

If you’ve spent any time around the aftermarket wheel scene, you already know the Volk Racing TE37. First introduced in 1996, it quickly became an icon of Japanese performance culture, earning its reputation on the street and track with its lightweight design, strength, and unmistakable six-spoke layout. Put it next to the Gram Lights 57DR, though, and you might start wondering why the TE37 costs two and a half times as much.

That’s exactly why these two wheels get compared so often. They’re both made by RAYS, and both bring that classic six-spoke, functional look that enthusiasts love. But the TE37 has decades of history, racing pedigree, and engineering behind it. So, is all of that actually worth the extra money, or does the 57DR give you everything you really need for your build?

We know dropping serious money on a set of wheels isn’t a decision you make lightly. So let’s break down what you’re actually getting with each wheel and figure out which one makes the most sense for you.

At first it might seem weird that a company would make a copy of their own wheel and call it something completely different. But it actually makes a lot of sense.

The TE37 is iconic. It's a legendary wheel. However, it's tough to swallow the $4,000+ price tag of a set of these. So what's the next best thing? How about a similar design wheel that still follows the same standards, is made by the same company, still looks killer, and gives you that "Real Wheel" status. Insert the Gram Lights 57DR.

Both the TE37 and 57DR are incredible wheels in their own way and do their own job perfectly. If you want to ball out with a set of TE37s, by all means go ahead and do it. Want something a little more suited for daily driving and won't cause you to have a mental breakdown if you get some rash on the lip? Maybe the 57DR is more your speed. Either way, you won't be disappointed.