Anyone have the XPA steering wheel?

**johnw3d** · #1 (**permalink**) 05-22-2006, 10:05 PM

Thinking of upgrading my standard steering wheel to the Sport wheel, but wondering if the XPA thicker leather wheel is worth considering. The after-market upgrade to the Sport wheel is about $1500, most of which is new airbags, so maybe the XPA won't be that much extra. I know, the Sport wheel was just a $250 order option, but I bought my car off the lot - it had everything I wanted (silver PASM/SC/19' CS wheels, etc., etc., just off the boat) *except* the sport steering wheel, so I traded in favor of not waiting a few months. But I'm going Autocross crazy and think the standard wheel is just too big.

I looked at the TechArt replacement, but they will only replace like-for-like. Does anyone have the XPA wheel and recommend it? Any pictures, by any chance?

Thanks,
John.

FT · #2 (**permalink**) 05-23-2006, 12:56 AM

I am sorry, I got confused... is XPA the optional Sport Steering Wheel?

If so, I'd say wait a little longer and get the 997 GT3 steering wheel, you'll be happier I suspect. I am content with my Sport thingy, but I wish it was a little thicker.

**johnw3d** · #3 (**permalink**) 05-23-2006, 02:51 AM

Yes, FT, in the 2006 Cayman S Order Guide, option code XPA is 'Thicker Steering Wheel-Leather', described as:

'Sport steering wheel with thicker rim and
smooth leather finish in interior color: thicker
steering rim (2.2a)(with cross stitched
seam), airbag module(2.2b), steering wheel
hub cover(2.2g)'

It sounds interesting but I've never seen one in the flesh or even a picture of one.

I wasn't aware you could put a GT3 wheel on a Cayman, but that sounds like an interesting option.

SJD · #4 (**permalink**) 05-23-2006, 04:51 PM

I ordered it on mine but haven't received it yet. Not until late July early August. I did look at one on a Carerra and it was nice. Smaller diameter and thicker more padded feel. -sjd

PACayman · #5 (**permalink**) 05-24-2006, 01:54 PM

I got the Sport wheel ($250), and it's the only ordering disappointment I have. I would EASILY do the $400 thicker sport wheel if I had the chance again.

Edited by - PACayman on 05/24/2006 07:55:24 AM

SJD · #6 (**permalink**) 05-24-2006, 02:13 PM

It's tight. But Thicker Sport Steering Wheel Leather (XPA) is $1050. Sport Steering Wheel (435) is $250. Sport Steering Wheel Leather(460) is $740. -sjd