Restoring a classic car is more than just a project. It’s a journey! Every choice you make adds to the car’s story and brings it closer to the vision you have in mind.
One of the most important decisions along the way is choosing the perfect steering wheel. The steering wheel is central to your driving experience and gives that first impression when you sit behind the wheel.
So, here are some tips on how to pick a Moto-Lita steering wheel that’s just right for your car’s style, era, and unique character.
1. Match the Wheel Style to Your Car’s Era
Classic cars have a distinct style tied to their era, so it’s essential to select a wheel that complements the car’s original aesthetic. At Moto-Lita, we offer a range of wheel styles inspired by different periods and automotive icons:
-
50s and 60s: If you’re restoring something from the golden age of British motoring, like an AC Cobra or a vintage Jaguar, consider a wooden rim wheel. The rich grain and polished finish offer a timeless look that feels right at home in these classics.
-
70s and 80s: Cars from this era often featured leather-rimmed wheels with a sportier look. A Moto-Lita leather wheel brings that touch of retro style while adding a modern level of comfort and durability.
-
Vintage Track Style: For a car that channels motorsport heritage, look at deep dished wheels or those with Cobra slots, designed to give you that race-car feel.
2. Size Matters: Choose the Right Diameter
Diameter is key to balancing comfort and control. Smaller wheels, like a 13” or 14” diameter, are perfect if you’re after a sporty, responsive feel, especially in smaller cars like the Mini or an MX-5.
Larger wheels, like 15” or 16”, work beautifully in grand tourers or classic saloons, giving a comfortable grip and a classic look in bigger interiors. Moto-Lita offers a range of diameters, so you can find the size that feels just right for your driving style and the car’s design.
3. Decide on Flat or Dished
A flat or dished wheel can make a big difference in both comfort and style:
-
Flat Wheels: Great for a clean, minimalist look, often suited to refined classics like the Aston Martin or Jaguar.
-
Dished Wheels: Our Mk3 dished wooden steering wheel is a popular choice for those looking to bring a deeper, more dynamic feel to their drive. For a truly bold look, you can go for a US-style deep dish, ideal for vintage racing vibes or track-ready builds.
4. Materials: Wood, Leather, or Suede?
Your steering wheel’s material doesn’t just add style; it defines the driving feel:
-
Wood: There’s nothing quite like the warm feel of a wooden wheel. It’s ideal for vintage restorations where you want to keep that classic charm. You can choose lighter stains for a fresh, natural look, or go for a darker stain for a richer, more dramatic style. And if you’re after something a bit more rugged, choose a wheel with rivets for that extra vintage detail.
-
Leather: If comfort and durability are top of your list, leather might be the way to go. It’s a versatile choice that suits a range of cars, and with Moto-Lita’s options in leather colours and finishes, you can make it your own.
-
Suede or Alcantara: For a more modern, track-inspired look, Moto-Lita offers options in suede or alcantara, perfect for grip and a soft-touch finish.
5. Go for Custom Features That Fit Your Driving Style
Customisation is where your steering wheel really gets personal. Moto-Lita offers options like:
-
Spoke Design: Choose between plain spokes for a clean look or go for holes, slots, or Cobra slots if you want a racier, high-performance aesthetic.
-
Centre Stripe: If you’re building a track car or just love the look, add a centre stripe. It’s a stylish nod to motorsport and adds a functional marker for steering alignment.
-
Finishes: Go polished for a classic, bright look, or anodised for a sleek, modern feel. Anodised finishes even come in different colours, so you can match or contrast with your interior.
6. Compatibility: Ensure a Good Fit with Your Boss
Moto-Lita offers wheel centres that can suit any PCD (pitch circle diameter), which means you can fit a Moto-Lita wheel onto a wide variety of hubs and quick-release systems. This flexibility is a great advantage, especially if you’re working with an unusual or custom steering column. Make sure to check your boss compatibility to get the best fit.
7. Final Touches: Make It Uniquely Yours
Your steering wheel should reflect the car’s heritage while showcasing your own personal taste. Whether it’s choosing the type of finish, adding a thick grip for comfort, or selecting unique details that mirror the car’s original design, these final touches can bring the whole project together.
When you choose a Moto-Lita steering wheel, you’re not just adding a piece of kit. You’re investing in a piece of history crafted with care and passion. From classic wood to leather and customisable details, each wheel brings your car closer to its original glory or gives it a modern, personalised twist that suits your style.
Ready to find your perfect match? Check out the full range of options and take your restoration project to the next level.