Getting behind the wheel of your car should feel effortless, comfortable, and in total control. Whether you're cruising in a classic, tackling tight corners on the track, or just enjoying the open road, your driving position plays a crucial role in your comfort, handling, and safety.
Here’s how to fine-tune your steering wheel size, seat position, and dish depth to get the perfect driving setup.
1. Steering Wheel Size & How It Affects Handling
The size of your steering wheel directly impacts your driving feel and control.
Smaller Wheels (13"-14") – Ideal for sports cars, track driving, and tight handling. Smaller wheels provide quicker response and require less movement to turn, making them great for high-performance cars and drivers who prefer a more engaged feel.
Medium Wheels (14"-15") – A balance between control and comfort. A popular size for classic sports cars like MGs and Mustangs, as well as classic Land Rovers.
Larger Wheels (15"+) – Perfect for touring cars, classic grand tourers, and relaxed driving. They offer a smoother steering experience, especially when manoeuvering a vehicle at low speeds without power steering.
Choosing the right size: If your classic car originally had a larger wheel, swapping to a smaller size can improve handling, but consider whether your car has power steering. A larger wheel gives you more leverage, making turning easier in non-assisted steering setups.
2. Adjusting Your Seat & Steering Wheel for Maximum Comfort & Control
A proper seating position helps with comfort, reduces fatigue, and gives you the best connection to your car. Here’s how to find the perfect setup:
Seat Height: Adjust so your eyes are level with the road and your hips are slightly higher than your knees for proper posture.
Seat Distance: Position your seat so you can press the pedals fully without stretching. Your knee should have a slight bend when pressing the clutch or brake.
Steering Reach: Sit with your back against the seat and extend your arms. The perfect position is when your wrists rest comfortably on top of the wheel without locking your elbows.
Elbow Angle: Aim for a slight bend in your arms when gripping the wheel at 9 & 3 o’clock for the best control.
Lumbar Support: If your car allows for lumbar adjustments, make sure it supports the natural curve of your spine.
Pro Tip: Avoid leaning too far back. Your shoulders should always stay in contact with the seat, even when turning.
3. Why Dish Depth Matters in Racing & Classic Cars
A dished steering wheel can make all the difference in driving ergonomics, control, and comfort.
Deep Dished Wheels (Race & Performance Cars) – Bring the wheel closer to the driver for improved control and responsiveness. This setup is common in track cars, rally cars, and high-performance classics where driver input needs to be precise.
Shallow Dish (Flat Wheels) – Found in many classic grand tourers and modern performance cars, providing a more relaxed driving position, especially for long-distance cruising.
Choosing the Right Dish: If your steering column is too long, a dished wheel can bring the wheel closer to you for better ergonomics. If your car already has a short steering column, a flat wheel may be more suitable.
4. Common Driving Position Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
Too Close to the Wheel – Sitting too close means your arms and legs are cramped, making steering uncomfortable and reducing reaction time.
Too Far from the Pedals – If you have to stretch to reach the clutch or brake, your posture is off, and you’ll tire quickly.
Leaning Too Far Back – If your seat is reclined too much, you’ll lose steering precision and put strain on your neck and back.
Holding the Wheel Too High or Too Low – A 9 & 3 o’clock grip gives the best control and reduces fatigue.
Final Thoughts: Small Adjustments, Big Difference
Dialling in your steering wheel size, dish depth, and seat position can completely transform your driving experience. Whether you're restoring a classic or fine-tuning a performance car, getting your cockpit set up right ensures maximum comfort, control, and enjoyment.