After you've installed all the typical bolt-on parts and want to improve your driving experience more, it might be time to look at an aftermarket steering wheel. It's not quite the same as holding a nice pair of boobies, but there's something stimulating about grabbing onto a high-quality sporty steering wheel. Maybe it's the smaller diameter, thicker padding, firm grip or the leather/suede finish… Whatever it is, these steering wheels can give you a more positive driving experience and quicker feedback—something a lot of boring stock wheels don't offer.
There are literally hundreds of aftermarket wheels out there but we selected some of the staff favorites here. Steering wheels come in all shapes, diameters, depths and materials so do your homework to ensure you get what's best for your hands. As a warning, many of you will likely have to ditch your factory airbag so make sure this is something you're comfortable with. (Please check your state's law regarding this type of mod, which is most likely for off-road use, unless you own a car without steering wheel airbags.) But, if you want the look and feel of a racecar, game on!
Nardi Sport Rally Deep Corn
Offered in black suede or perforated leather, this Nardi piece is one of their most popular. Features red stitching and a slight concave design that spaces the wheel 2" closer to the driver for better steering input. Comes available in two sizes (330mm, 350mm).
One of our favorite Sparco street wheels is the L777. Sold in 350mm only, it has a concave design with 63mm of depth. Whether you get it in leather or suede, this wheel is sure to improve grip and turn heads.
Sparco sells this competition steering wheel made of 100% carbon-fiber. The 330mm gets its name because it weighs only 385g—half the weight of competing wheels.
Personal wheels are just as good as the best of them (and they're also from the same company as Nardi). The 350mm Trophy model is one of their top sellers and comes in many different variations—leather, suede, red/yellow/silver stitching.
Elegant, gangster, baller, whatever you want to call it…this wood steering wheel is what Nardi is known for. The fine mahogany goes perfectly with a classic car or might even work on a new ride. You be the judge!
If you can't tell, this wheel is the flashiest of the bunch. You better be sliding around corners or dressed to race, because the Vertex wheel has a wild style. The 330mm 10 Star wheel features a super-deep 90mm dish and leather upholstery.