Upgrading your steering wheel is one of the easiest ways to enhance your driving experience, but choosing the right size is crucial for both comfort and control. Whether you're restoring a classic, building a performance car, or simply looking for a change, measuring your current wheel properly will help you make the best choice.
Here’s a simple guide to understanding steering wheel dimensions, rim circumference, and why accurate measurements matter.
Measuring your Steering Wheel diameter
The diameter of your steering wheel determines how it feels in your hands and how much effort it takes to turn. Too large, and it may feel sluggish; too small, and it could make steering more difficult, especially in classic cars without power steering.
How to measure your Steering Wheel diameter
1️⃣ Measure across the wheel
Take a tape measure and place it edge to edge, across the middle of the wheel. The measurement should be taken from the outer rim on one side to the outer rim on the opposite side.
2️⃣ Understanding how construction affects size
The manufacturing process plays a role in how steering wheels measure up:
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Wooden Steering Wheels – Some manufacturers use fully-machined composite materials to imitate wood, creating a uniform shape, while others handcraft their wheels from real wood, meaning slight variations in size can occur due to sanding and finishing processes.
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Leather Steering Wheels – The underlying grip material can add thickness, making the final diameter slightly larger than stated, depending on the internal structure.
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Anodised and Motorsport Wheels – Often feature flat-bottom or dished designs, which impact ergonomics and positioning in a car.
💡 Pro Tip: If your current wheel is comfortable, use its measurements as a starting point when choosing a replacement.
How to measure rim circumference and what it means for feel
The rim circumference (or grip thickness) of a steering wheel significantly impacts driving comfort and control. A thicker rim offers a more substantial feel, while a thinner rim provides a lighter, more delicate touch, often favoured for vintage restorations.
Measuring Your rim circumference
To measure your steering wheel’s grip thickness, wrap a flexible tape measure around the rim where your hands typically rest.
How different grip sizes feel:
✔️ Thinner Grips (3”-3.5” circumference) – Common in vintage grand tourers, sports cars, and classic roadsters. These offer a more traditional feel, perfect for cars where light, precise steering input is key.
✔️ Thicker Grips (4”+ circumference) – Favoured in track-focused, performance, and modern classics where a firmer, more substantial grip enhances driver control.
🔧 Things to consider:
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Leather-wrapped wheels often feel warmer and more cushioned, while wooden wheels offer a firmer, tactile grip.
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Alcantara and suede wheels, common in racing and rally builds, provide extra grip but require more maintenance to keep them looking fresh.
Why accurate measurements matter
Steering wheels affect everything from ergonomics to aesthetics, so getting the right fit is essential for an enjoyable drive.
✔️ Better Driving Comfort – A wheel that’s too large or small can make driving awkward, especially on long journeys.
✔️ Improved Handling – Rim thickness and diameter influence how responsive your steering feels.
✔️ Seamless Installation – Ensuring the correct size, dish depth, and boss compatibility prevents any surprises when fitting your new wheel.
✔️ Perfect Interior Match – Whether you want period-correct authenticity or a modern upgrade, choosing the right materials and design completes the look of your car's cockpit.
💡 Looking at Alcantara or Suede? These materials are becoming increasingly popular in performance builds. They offer superior grip and a track-inspired aesthetic, making them an excellent alternative to traditional leather for racing and enthusiast vehicles.
Final Thoughts: Get the perfect steering wheel for your build
Choosing the right steering wheel isn’t just about looks. It’s about precision, comfort, and enhancing your driving experience. By measuring your wheel diameter and rim circumference, understanding material differences, and considering grip feel, you can find a wheel that perfectly matches your car’s style and handling needs.
Planning a steering wheel upgrade? Shop our steering wheels and accessories online!