Largely neglected when making auto decisions, the steering wheel is perhaps the most important part of every vehicle, given how it connects the driver to the car. It's just as substantial as the engine, infotainment system, transmission, and every other pivotal element that can be found in a classic car.
Steering wheels have come a long way since taking over from tillers and they may well be displaced by the influx of autonomous cars in the coming years. But until then, the helm remains the link that connects vehicles and motorists. New-age versions carry different buttons for distinct features.
The automotive industry has seen some glamorous and incredibly unique steering wheels over the years, let's examine some of the coolest. Apart from appearing in a round shape and converting rotational commands to swerving movements, all of these esthetic steering wheels add hue and tang to the interior layouts of the cars they control.
8 Lamborghini Sesto Elemento
Not the conventional circle shape steering wheel, but one of the finest you will find in any four-wheeler. If you're wondering why Lamborghini made only 20 examples of the Sesto Elemento, just pause for a few seconds, scroll back up to the picture above, admire the interior design steering nicely dressed in red leather.
Imagine yourself sitting behind the wheel, hands wrapped around the steering in the nine-three or seven-one position, slapping your foot against the accelerator, and zooming past every other car on the road.
7 Pagani Huayra
Just in case you haven't heard this before, Pagani doesn't make ordinary cars. A careful peek at the cockpit should give you a fair idea of how the exterior looks: it's a marvel to behold.
This hypercar was named after South American wind god Huayra Tata (meaning Father of the Wind), but even he would be blown away by the elegance of this steering wheel.
6 De Tomaso P72
De Tomaso made a surprise return to the scene at the 2019 Goodwood Festival after going on sabbatical since 2004. It's obvious they dedicated ample time to designing the interior and the steering wheel.
It looks pretty spicy, just like the name of the car. Judging by the sparkling appearance of the steering wheel, motorists might be tempted to spend more time behind the wheel.
5 Audi R8 Spyder V10
The leather steering wheel in the R8 Spyder carries all the essential buttons. Drivers can easily access and control all important functions without having to take their hands off the wheel. Two big satellite buttons are mounted on the left and right near the center of the wheel.
These buttons are used to start or stop the car and also to control the Audi drive select feature. The entire control concept is fully focused on the driver.
4 Mazda Eunos Cosmo
This may look like the interior of a far-fetched concept car, but the model has been on the market for decades now.
The Eunos Cosmo comes with a ground-breaking triple-rotor engine and a fascinating steering wheel that portrays style and simplicity. Sadly it never found its way into the American market.
3 Spyker C8
No multifunctional special feature buttons, no excess paparazzi, just the undeniable thrilling charm of a round-shaped wheel, designed to lure attention.
The cockpit looks more like that of a boat and the lush alloy-draped steering wheel perfectly complements the interior.
2 1952 Mercedes 300SL
Simplicity is golden - on some occasions. This four-spoke steering wheel that controls the 1952 Mercedes 300SL is a testament to that. Yet another vintage submission from way back.
This car was a huge success on the tracks (I have no doubts the steering had a hand in it) - winning championships and establishing Mercedes as a powerhouse in car racing.
1 Ferrari 458 Italia
A game console-like steering, designed in Formula 1 style. Drivers can concentrate on the road while driving as the control panel is merged into the wheel.
It carries multiple important buttons that control the wiper, headlights, and turn signals.