Starting to replace any original pieces on a classic car can be difficult. However, there are great aftermarket options designed to make delicate upgrades. Sometimes, the replaced parts will even increase safety, add new functionality, or make the car more enjoyable to drive. With our top 10 aftermarket steering wheels guide, we give you some great options for high-quality products. You can decide if the steering wheel should fit right into the retro look of your classic car – or make a nice upgrade. We give you both classic wooden steering wheels, retro looks for the 60-70s American muscle car, and more modern options both for an updated classic look and for the race track.
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1. MOMO Steering Wheel Heritage Indy Mahogany
MOMO is a well-known name in racing. The company was founded in 1964 by Italian race car driver Gianpiero Moretti and started producing steering wheels. Today, MOMO also produces rims, gear knobs, and other accessories for racing cars, street, and heritage vehicles. Together with Rod Emory, they have just launched a special collection of Heritage 5 concept steering wheels. This collection is specifically developed for the Emory Motorsports’ Porsche 365 RSR. A favorite from the collection is the Heritage Indy Mahogany wood steering wheel. The retro-inspired design with beautiful mahogany wood has a glossy finish, aluminum spokes, and finger grooves on the backside of the wheel. This is a high-quality product with a stylish look suitable for most classic cars. Plus, the MOMO logo will give you extra credit on the track.
2. Nardi Classic with wood and black spokes
Nardi also has its roots in Italian motorsports. The company was founded in 1946 by Enrico Nardi who was the first test driver at Ferrari. Today, Nardi specializes in classic and sports steering wheels and have been the supplier of some of the world’s top car manufacturers such as Ferrari, Maserati, and Lamborghini. Their collection of aftermarket steering wheels include several lines specifically designed for classic cars. From the Classic Line is this gorgeous wooden steering wheel with black spokes and a black aluminum ring. Made in Italy and in 100% genuine wood, the steering wheel has a great authentic feel. After years of use, it will get a beautiful patina. In conclusion, this is an investment that will make you smile every time!
3. NRG Innovations Classic Black Wood grain steering wheel
NRG was founded in 2003 in California and has a background from the car tuning scene. The company is very active in racing with both their own cars and sponsored vehicles. Therefore, they focus on manufacturing high-quality products that are strong enough to be used for competition. The NRG product line includes both interior and exterior products. For the steering wheels, they offer short hubs with quick-release that mounts in the same location as the original wheel. In addition to their modern series, they also offer vintage wood grain steering wheels and a collection of colored models. From the Colored Wood Series is this Classic Black Wood Grain Wheel with a solid spoke center in black chrome. This is the perfect choice if you want to keep the classic feel of a wooden steering wheel but prefer a modern all-black look.
4. Sparco Suede in black
Sparco was created in 1977 by a team of two young racecar drivers who wanted to offer safer products. At the time, major accidents were, unfortunately, part of the motorsport’s scene. When FIA decided to take action, Sparco took part in revolutionizing the safety measures that we know today. Sparco has since then grown to a world-renowned name in racing and karting. They offer a wide range of products from safety equipment, clothing, performance parts and lifestyle products. This great-looking suede steering wheel is part of the racing collection and the top-quality material ensures a good grip. The all-black model is a more modern and subtle choice. You can, however, also opt for a racing edition with the classic Sparco logo in yellow and the iconic yellow stripe.
5. OMP 3 Spokes Flat for off-road
OMP Racing is an Italian company founded in 1973. Today, they are a world leader in safety equipment for race cars where their products are used in Formula 1 and World rally Championships. Their entire collection features more than 2,000 products – most of them FIA approved. The line of steering wheels is designed to improve performance and built to last. The Back SAND 3 spokes flat steering wheel is designed for off-road cars and has a round handgrip in high-quality synthetic leather. The classic pattern of the spokes and the all-black design is a design that will fit most cars. In addition, the yellow OMP logo adds a cool race-feel that will be recognized by motorsports fans.
6. MOMO Retro Leather
Another favorite from Italian MOMO is the Retro Steering wheel. The retro-inspired design is made from black top-grain leather with white stitching. Thanks to the silver spokes with their classic pattern, this is the perfect choice for many classic car models. If you want to take the steering wheel to the next level, MOMO even offers customization. Here, you can customize everything from leather or color – or even choose to engrave your own signature.
7. Grant Challenger Steering Wheel
The Grant Company based in Texas has an automotive heritage dating back to 1922. They manufacture a complete line of custom steering wheels for the automotive aftermarket. In addition, they even offer special products for racing, golf cars, and utility vehicles, the marine industry, heavy-duty trucks, and motorhomes. The Challenger Series features Grant’s exclusive dual-plane spoke design. The 3-dimensional hi-tech dual-plane 4-spoke design is a strong construction. It has a decorative eight bolt pattern around the horn button (beneath is a three-bolt set-up) and matte black steel spokes. Finally, the cool-looking modern steering wheel has a black cushioned foam grip that ensures good handling.
8. GT Performance Retro Leather
California-based GT Performance is a new name in the industry. Nonetheless, their team of experts has over 40 years of experience in aftermarket steering wheel design and manufacturing. They specialize in performance products and offer a wide range of aftermarket steering wheels. Designs range from classic and retro to pro-touring and competition. Part of the GT Retro Wheels collection is our favorite the GT3 Retro Leather steering wheel. This design is made with a Mustang style – perfect for your classic muscle car. The wheel has an extra thick leather grip with “baseball stitch” for maximum comfort and brushed finish spokes with four chamfered lightening holes. A classic steering wheel with an elegant finish.
9. Flashpower Classic Wood
Flashpower is based in Arizona and specializes in billet steering wheels for hot rods, classic cars and performance GM and Ford vehicles. The products are designed in the US and manufactured in China using top-quality aluminum with a polished or black anodized finish. The company also reproduces original wheels for Porsche, Jaguar, GM, Opel GT and Aston Martin. However, the billet and classic collections are compatible with all car brands. One of our favorites is the Flashpower Classic Wood steering wheel made for muscle car restoration. It’s made from walnut wood and has brushed stainless spokes with smooth edges. The direct mount fits on an original 6-bolts adapter.
10. Sparco Sanremo Mahogany wood
In addition to the above aftermarket racing steering wheels, Sparco also offers a model with a much more classic design. A design that is specifically made for older vehicles. The Sanremo steering wheel has a round grip and is made of natural painted mahogany wood. It has aluminum rivets and three polished aluminum spokes. In the center is the recognizable Sparco-logo in white/black surrounded by 6 bolts. In addition, “Sparco” is also engraved into one of the spokes. This is a great vintage-looking option for the classy racing enthusiast who wants a high-quality steering wheel.
After selecting your favorite steering wheel, don’t forget to also get a steering wheel adapter (boss kit)! This will ensure a much easier and smooth installation. Good luck and ‘get out and drive’!
*Products in our Buyer’s Guide section are carefully chosen and we recommend only the best for our loyal audience. Bear in mind that this article contains affiliate links and if you purchase via our links – Old News Club will earn a commission.
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