Car wheels are available in steel, cast aluminium, flow-formed aluminium, forged aluminium, magnesium and carbon-fibre constructions. Each material and manufacturing process offers a different balance of weight, strength, stiffness, durability, cost and repairability. This guide explains how the principal wheel types are manufactured, their history and which designs are best suited to road, performance and motorsport use.

A powerful engine makes a car fast, but a properly engineered braking system makes that performance usable. From traditional drum brakes and cast-iron discs to carbon-ceramic rotors, racing pads and regenerative braking, every system has been designed for a particular operating environment. This guide explains the main types of car brakes, brake discs, calipers and brake-pad compounds, including their advantages, disadvantages and correct applications.