How to Choose the Perfect Aftermarket Steering Wheel for a BMW E30 M3?

A steering wheel is perhaps one of the most intimate parts of a car. It’s the main touchpoint between the driver and the car, serving as the interface that controls one of the most important operations – steering. If you own a BMW E30 M3, one of the iconic cars of the 80s, you may want to consider upgrading your steering wheel to enhance your driving experience. This guide will bring clarity to your decision-making process, providing a comprehensive list on how to choose the best aftermarket steering wheel for your BMW E30 M3.

Steering Wheel Basics: Understanding Your Needs

Before embarking on your quest to find the perfect steering wheel for your M3, it’s vital to understand your needs and preferences. Steering wheels come in different types, each with their unique characteristics. The most common types are the three-spoke and four-spoke steering wheels.

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Three-spoke steering wheels are typically found in sports and racing cars. They offer greater visibility of the car’s instrument cluster and give a sporty aesthetic. Four-spoke steering wheels, on the other hand, are common in luxury and town cars. They provide a comfortable grip and a classy look.

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In choosing between a three-spoke and four-spoke steering wheel, consider your driving style and the look you want for your car. If you’re into aggressive driving or racing, a three-spoke wheel like the Momo racing series would be ideal. On the contrary, if you prefer a relaxed driving style with a touch of luxury, a four-spoke wheel could be a perfect choice.

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Material Selection: Leather, Suede, or Alcantara?

The material of your steering wheel is another crucial aspect to consider. It determines the grip, comfort, and overall feel of the wheel. The most common materials used are leather, suede, and Alcantara.

Leather steering wheels are highly favored because of their durability and comfortable grip. They’re ideal for everyday use, offering a good balance between comfort and performance. Their premium feel makes them a perfect addition to luxury cars like the BMW E30 M3.

If you’re a car enthusiast who loves racing, then a suede steering wheel could be the perfect fit. Suede provides a firm grip, which is crucial when taking sharp turns at high speeds. However, they require more care and maintenance compared to leather.

Alcantara is a synthetic material that offers the best of both leather and suede. It provides a firm grip like suede, yet it’s more durable and easier to maintain. But it doesn’t come cheap.

The Finest Brands: Momo, BMW, and More

When it comes to aftermarket steering wheels, there are many reputable brands to choose from. Among them, Momo and BMW stand out due to their high-quality parts and long-standing reputation in the auto industry.

Italian-based Momo offers a wide variety of steering wheels, ranging from classic designs to modern racing wheels. Their wheels are renowned for their superior quality, innovative design, and exceptional performance. Momo’s racing series, in particular, provides a top-notch driving experience, making it a popular choice for car enthusiasts.

BMW, despite being a car manufacturer, also offers aftermarket parts for their cars, including steering wheels. Their wheels are characterized by their elegant design and excellent craftsmanship, providing a seamless fit for your BMW E30 M3.

Shipping and Installation: Making Your Purchase Worry-Free

After purchasing your new steering wheel, the next step is to have it shipped and installed. Most manufacturers offer free shipping for their steering wheels, so you can add your chosen wheel to your cart without worrying about additional costs.

For installation, it’s recommended to have your steering wheel installed by a professional to ensure proper fit and safety. Some manufacturers offer installation services, but if this isn’t available, you can visit any trusted car mechanic or service center near you.

Choosing the perfect aftermarket steering wheel for your BMW E30 M3 is not an easy task. It requires careful consideration of several factors, including your personal preferences, the type of the steering wheel, the material, the brand, and your budget. But with due diligence and the right information, you can find a steering wheel that not only enhances your car’s interior but also elevates your driving experience.

Wheel Diameter and Fittings: Ensuring a Tight Grip and Clear View

When choosing the perfect aftermarket steering wheel, you can’t overlook the importance of the wheel diameter and fitting. The diameter determines the comfort and control of your BMW E30 M3, while the fitting ensures a secure attachment to the steering column.

The wheel diameter typically ranges from 13 inches to 15 inches. A smaller diameter, like a 13-inch wheel, offers better control and quicker response, making it ideal for aggressive driving or racing. However, it might obstruct your view of the instrument cluster. A larger diameter, like a 15-inch wheel, provides a comfortable grip and clear view of the cluster but might feel less responsive.

To ensure that your new steering wheel fits securely onto your steering column, you’ll need a hub adapter. This device makes it possible to fit a wheel of different specifications onto your BMW’s steering column. It’s crucial to choose a hub adapter that matches the specifications of both your car and the new wheel.

When shopping for a steering wheel, make sure to check the product’s terms and conditions. Some manufacturers offer a discount code on purchases, which could save you money. They also might include free shipping and installation in their terms conditions, making your purchase worry-free.

Modifying Your BMW E30 M3: Steering Wheels and Beyond

Choosing the perfect aftermarket steering wheel is just one part of modifying your BMW E30 M3. There are many other modifications you can make to enhance your car’s performance and aesthetics. These include installing rear diffusers, spoilers wings, front lips, and more.

Rear diffusers are devices attached to the underside of a car to improve its aerodynamics. They help reduce drag and increase downforce, enhancing the car’s stability and speed. Spoilers wings, on the other hand, are mounted on the car’s rear, reducing lift and improving stability at high speeds.

Front lips, also known as air dams, are installed at the front bottom of the car. They direct the airflow around the car, improving its aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. For added style and performance, consider replacing your vehicle’s original parts with carbon fiber components. Carbon fiber is a lightweight yet strong material that’s ideal for car mods.

Don’t forget to use a discount code when shopping for these parts. Many manufacturers offer discount codes, allowing you to save money on your purchase. Simply enter the code at checkout, and watch the price drop!

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect aftermarket steering wheel for your BMW E30 M3 is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. From the wheel diameter to the type of material, brand, and even the installation process, there are many factors to consider. But with the right information, you can find the perfect wheel that enhances your car’s interior and elevates your driving experience.

Moreover, don’t forget about the other possible modifications for your BMW E30 M3. From rear diffusers to carbon fiber parts, there are many ways to improve your car’s performance and aesthetics. And with the possibility of free shipping and discount codes, upgrading your car doesn’t have to break the bank. Happy modding!