Porsche 997: Alcantara vs. Leather

This article applies to the Porsche 997 (2005-2012).

The difference between a leather steering wheel and an Alcantara steering wheel is the difference between a comfortable ride and a frustrating one. However, both materials are favorites among Porsche 997 owners—albeit for different reasons. When choosing the best steering wheel option for your vehicle, remember that the more durable the material is (i.e., the one designed and manufactured to hold up against long-term damage as well as wear), the longer its lifespan will be. This article will compare these two popular options.

Pros and Cons

While some consumers insist that a leather steering wheel offers a superior look and feel over Alcantara, others disagree. Porsche owners who have chosen the Alcantara option have praised the material's lightweight feel and stylish appearance. Additional benefits include its ease of maintenance, protection from burns on a sunny day, and better grip.

However, those who favor leather assert the material's ability to hold up against wear and tear better than Alcantara. For the majority of Porsche owners, leather is the prevailing option as it simply has a sleeker, smoother look, and it nicely complements the rest of the car's interior.

Driver Preference

• The Alcantara option is best choice for drivers who enjoy spending time on the track, and want to look the part; however, some regular maintenance is required. For many drivers, the pros of this high-grip material far outweigh the cons. Overall, the biggest concern for buyers (when it comes to Alcantara) is the long-term wear and tear.
• The leather option is best for drivers who value durability, and class over sportiness. The most notable pros include a greater resistance to wear and tear, a polished smooth look, as well as easy maintenance.

Maintenance

• For the Alcantara steering wheel, a high-performance car care product must be used, such as Swissvax's Alcantara Cleaner for artificial suede. This product retails for around $160, but is excellent at removing stubborn oils and stains.
• For the leather steering wheel, it is recommended using a high-quality, non-sticky leather cleaner like Meguiar's Leather Cleaner. This product retails for around $30, and is more than enough to keep the steering wheel in good condition.

Common Questions

Can I Cover My Center Console With Alcantara?

Yes, the greatest benefit is you won't have to worry about scratches, which is a common occurrence with a standard center console.

Can I Switch From Leather to Alcantara?

Yes, contact a specialist to have the job done, or do it yourself using an Alcantara-style wrapping kit. Prices start at around $50. You can also replace your current steering wheel with an OEM Porsche Alcantara steering wheel, and vice versa.

Which Material is Best for Racing?

Most claim that Alcantara offers a stronger grip. However, racers have used leather steering wheels without any overwhelming decreases in performance from the material alone.

Common Issues

Oils

The oils from your skin can become trapped in the Alcantara, causing unsightly stains and blemishes.

Burns

Leather will become hot when exposed to the sun's rays or in extremely high temperatures. Park your Porsche 997 in a shaded area whenever possible to avoid possible burns. If no shade is available, allow your vehicle's steering wheel to cool down before attempting to drive.

Wear

Both leather and Alcantara are subject to wear; however, leather generally holds up much longer. Regular cleaning and conditioning will prolong the life of either material.

Related Discussions

• Alcantara Pros and Cons - Rennlist.com
• Alcantara vs Leather Steering Wheels - Rennlist.com
• Alcantara Center Console - Rennlist.com