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I suppose there is a bit to consider when thinking of "knock-off" parts. Some items, such as hardpipes as you've mentioned, or other things - are commonly designed and often similarly fabricated. I mean how many different ways can you make a hardpipe kit? That said, I don't consider any hardpipe kit a knockoff unless it has stolen a unique design, and I would buy a cheaper kit so long as it isn't uber cheap, chrome plated garbage. Aside - I think the argument about the wheels is valid. To some people, it just doesn't matter - they want something that looks good, period. Now, many of us Z guys have a little higher standard and don't think the Z deserves the "cheaper", subpar replica of anything, because that often implies the desire to be cool without the money to do so. Ever heard the term "Baller on a budget"? Another thing to consider, when buying replica wheels, they are just about always much heavier, 1 piece, and structurally not as solid. To some people this is very important. I see a lot of this in the honda crowd. Around here there is a group of honda enthusiasts who all have tastefully modified, legit cars with real parts. Several have all real mugen parts, real volk or whatever wheels, and real body modifications too. They draw the larger crowd, because they have the "real" parts. The guys driving around with rotas and fake mugen lips just get made fun of. You can't expect the same reaction and respect when you're only willing to spend 1/4 the amount. You'll fool and impress the ignorant or uneducated, but that's about it, and not something to be proud of IMO. Rotas: "Eh, looks alright but it's a stupid rota, bet it'll break"
Volk: "Those real? Wow, nice wheels!!"
H.R.E./Iforged, etc: "Holy crap!!..Baller" Just my .02... we all have opinions.
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