I just installed a Nardi 'Classico' black leather
steering wheel in my '79 300D.

The original 16" wheel came off easier than I had anticipated.

The new one is about 15" diameter. It has the effect of opening up the dash and making it a cleaner, airier perspective.

It really improved the looks and most of all it is much more comfortable to handle. The rim is a bit thicker than the original.
The smaller size is a perfect comfortable grip diameter for me.

The lower set rim does mask the top odometer numbers. No problem.
I drive faster. So at 75 MPH I can see the needle and numbers.

I never thought a steering wheel would make my diesel go faster!!!



I am really ecstatic about this change.
Good riddance to that old wheel. It may be safer because it has a padded horn button but the new one has a center horn button that is more decisive to toot when needed.
Also the feel both physically and psychologically is fascinating.

I got the idea from the experience of driving my C280. I liked the feel of the smaller wheel diameter which was less fatiguing for me than the larger wheel of the 300D
Aesthetically the new wheel is SUPER. Not dull and hum-drum.

A highly recommended modification in my opinion.

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1979 300D 220 K miles
1995 C280 109 K miles
1992 Cadillac Eldorado Touring Coupe 57K miles SOLD
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1979 240D 140Kmiles (bought for parents) *SOLD.
SAN FRANCISCO/(*San Diego)
1989 300SE 148 K miles *SOLD

Any pictures?
I'm thinking of doing this to my car..

However, I'm not sure if a wheel from the C-Class could just fit without mods..

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2008 BMW 335i Coupe

well if your not needing the old one I'd gladly take it off your hands

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2005 Audi A4 1.8T CVT -Silver/Black "Siegfried"

1982 300D - Silver/Blue "Ralph" -For Sale:
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?p=852260

1989 VW Diesel Jetta Blue/Blue "Bodo" RIP