BMW M Technic 1 Steering Wheel
BMW M Technic 1 (M-Tech 1) steering wheel is a cornerstone of “Golden Era” BMW interiors. Introduced in the mid-1980s, it was the standard performance wheel for the E30 M3 and many M-Sport package cars (E24, E28, E30) before the M-Tech 2 arrived in 1989/1990.
Listing Details
- BMW M Technic 1 Steering Wheel
- 370mm Diameter
- Part Number 1152 896 & KBA 70076
- Leather-Wrapped Rim
- Roundel Center Cap
- Original BMW Packaging
Key Specifications
There are two distinct versions of the M-Tech 1 wheel. Identifying which one you have (or need) is critical for both fitment and value:
| Feature | Large Version (Standard) | Small Version (Sport/M3) |
| Diameter | $385$ mm | $370$ mm |
| Common KBA # | KBA 70073 | KBA 70076 |
| Primary Fitment | E24, E28, E32, E34 | E30 M3, E30 325is |
| Rarity | Common | Rare / Highly Desirable |
Critical Fitment Note: The “Spline” Change
BMW changed the steering column spline count in the mid-80s.
-
Early Spline (Course): Fits cars made before 09/1985 (e.g., early E28, E24, and E21).
-
Late Spline (Fine): Fits cars made after 09/1985 (all E30s, and later E24/E28/E34).
Pro Tip: If you are putting an M-Tech 1 into an E34 or E32, it must be from a non-airbag car. Airbag-equipped columns use a different slip-ring depth and will not allow the horn to function without modification.
Anatomy of the M-Tech 1
-
The Design: A classic 3-spoke design with a prominent center horn pad. Unlike modern wheels, the “spokes” are actually part of the horn trigger.
-
The Badge: Features the iconic $M$ tri-color stripes on the lower spoke. Original badges are often faded or missing but can be replaced.
-
Leather: Originally wrapped in smooth Nappa leather. Many today have been reupholstered with perforated leather or tri-color stitching, though “original mint” leather carries a massive premium.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.