Seat options on early 911s.

[Merv]

I thought that I should start a new thread on this issue in the interests of not prolonging my 'welcome' (or over doing it).

Seats: Supposing I can get some decent originals and have them re-trimmed in a period (circa '68) manner, will these seats be effective and supportive (for everyday driving, not racing)? OR should I be looking at repros, such as BF Torinos, Vintage, Historika, etc., for such an outcome?

I also see that Pelican have seat base and backrest covers - have any folk used these on their old frames and cushions?

[uai]

The best you can get will probably also be the most expensive.
That means a non-reuphostered Sport seat where the original foam is still in good shape and only the belts have been redone would be my favourite.
I personally don't like bf torino - cheap made and no comfort for me (with 10 kg less perhaps)
Cheers

Uli

[Merv]

Yes tough decision. I am waiting on some original seat info but also spoke with Phil today re the Torinos.

[obrut]

The stock comfort seats are comfortable but aren't really that supportive. I have them in my targa and I find myself hanging off the steering wheel when pressing on. However, I have seen a cleverly retrimmed set with different foam densities which were much better. They looked stock when static but deformed into more of a sport seat shape when you sat in them.

I find the original sports seats pretty supportive and very comfortable, but they come at a price...

The various repros are popular but some cost almost as much as the real deal.

I think the cobras are good value. They also look correct with either the central vinyl or the cord, and houndstooths and tartans are readily available if you want to retrim the centres.

Another option is to cut down some modern racing seats and then trim them in a period style.

[reedminor]

I agree with Ryan - and I 've brieflydriven his Targa!

Since doing my seats I feel I am sitting on the car (and this includes a 2.2s with beautifully redone sports seats) as opposed to in it (as I do with my car)

I use my car in the odd regualrity event, but its primarily a tourer (I've driven in a group to Phillip Island from Sydney). The seats were comfortable enough, but offered wonderful support. Its horses for courses of course and the seats have been in nearly 3 years, but I am very happy I went down this upgrade route. There are a few things I'd do differently, but I'm happy now.

I've attached a few pictures below.

[Fishcop]

I agree with Justin. And Ryan hasn't let me drive any of his stable...

Nurburgring fixed back, perforated leather and tartan

[Merv]

Reedminor are yours the Torino Rally ST seats? Good point Ryan, about re-trimming some original seats with different foam densities for more support. I am keen to retain a period look in the car (which is not there in the present '74 tombstone seats) and also to have head restraints. I am still on the look out for good originals.

However, I am getting confused by the various repro seat names and claims. I seem to find that the closest repros to early 'Sports' Recaro seats are the Nurburgring R and the Le Mans (http://shop.bf-torino.com/shop_start/ ). The Le Mans perhaps the most. Is that a correct assumption? The standard, non-reclining Nurburgring and the cheaper Cobra seat look very similar, however, they don't allow folding access to the rear seats?

Nurb R.png Nurburgring R

Le Mans.png Le Mans