Petri Bakelite Steering Wheel

Description

This authentic Ivory Petri Bakelite Steering Wheel is an original Mercedes-Benz OEM component designed for a wide range of classic models from the 1960s and 1970s. Manufactured by Petri, the period-correct supplier for Mercedes-Benz steering wheels, this example includes its original horn pad, metal horn ring, and rear hub, making it a complete and highly sought-after assembly for collectors and restorers.
Finished in classic Ivory, the wheel features a 430mm rim constructed from genuine Bakelite, the durable early plastic formula that Mercedes-Benz used during this era for its heat resistance, longevity, and distinctive period aesthetics. The wheel displays natural patina, signs of age, and typical wear consistent with long-term storage—characteristics considered desirable by enthusiasts seeking originality over reproduction components.
This wheel is correct for and directly fits the following Mercedes-Benz chassis: W108, W109, W111, W113 (Pagoda), W114, and W115. For owners restoring a vintage S-Class, fintail sedan, W113 SL Pagoda, or compact 1960s/70s saloon, this OEM Petri wheel is an ideal finishing touch.
Specifications

Attribute
Details

Manufacturer
Petri

Type
OEM Mercedes-Benz Steering Wheel

Material
Bakelite (Ivory), metal horn ring

Diameter
Approx. 430mm

Fitment
W108, W109, W111, W113, W114, W115

Included
Steering wheel, horn pad, horn ring, hub

Era
1960s–1970s Mercedes-Benz

Condition
Original, used, with normal wear and age marks

Design & Construction
Ivory Bakelite Rim — True 1960s Mercedes Construction
Bakelite was widely used during this period due to:

High durability

Resistance to heat and chemicals

Ability to be cast into smooth, solid forms

Attractive creamy ivory color that became iconic for Mercedes interiors

The wheel maintains its original finish, offering an authentic, warm patina that cannot be replicated by modern reproductions.
OEM Petri Manufacturing
Petri was Mercedes-Benz’s official steering wheel supplier during the 1950s–1970s. This wheel includes:

Original Petri construction

Correct OEM hub

Factory-style rivets

Authentic shaping and spoke layout

Metal Horn Ring
A full metal horn ring is present and intact. This ring—mounted across the lower half of the wheel—was a distinctive design feature of classic Mercedes-Benz models from this era.
Mercedes-Benz Emblem Horn Pad
The center horn pad includes the Mercedes-Benz star emblem, matching the original specification for luxury sedans and the W113 SL Pagoda.
Fitment Compatibility
This Ivory Petri wheel is correct for and directly compatible with:

W108 — 250S, 280S, 280SE

W109 — 300SEL, 300SEL 6.3

W111 — Fintail sedans & coupes

W113 — 230SL, 250SL, 280SL Pagoda

W114 — 230, 250, 280 sedans & coupes

W115 — 220, 240D, 300D

The included hub ensures factory-style installation without modification.
Condition Report
Bakelite Rim

Original Ivory finish

Signs of normal use

Minor marks from long-term storage

No structural cracking or major damage

Horn Pad

Original Mercedes-Benz emblem

Good cosmetic condition

Fully intact mounting points

Metal Horn Ring

Present and firmly attached

Minor patina consistent with age

Rear Hub

Included with sale

Ensures direct bolt-on fitment

This original classic Mercedes-Benz steering wheel was made was made by Petri and comes complete with the horn pad and hub. The rim is finished in Ivory and made from bakelite plastic with a metal horn ring. The center horn pad located at the center features the Mercedes-Benz emblem. Normal wear is noted from prior use and long term storage. The steering wheel fits a range of classic Mercedes models including the W108, W109, W111, W113, W114, and W115.