The Type Classic II (SS 53Z) is the only reclining seat in this range that you buy as a driver’s side or a passenger’s side rather than as a neutral. The bolster is asymmetric, with more support on the outboard edge, so there is a correct orientation for each position in the car. Both are available in the variation selector. Both come in black vinyl with suede inserts.
The suede insert gives a slightly grippier surface than plain vinyl and a less shiny look. Steel frame, 345mm x 280mm bolt pattern, all heights and sizes, sliders in the box. Fitting frame purchased separately. 4-point harness compatible. Reclining backrest.
The VGR Vinyl and Suede (SS 45B) is the step up if you want the wider 405mm bolt pattern and a neutral shell shape. The LH Vinyl (SS 72L) adds an integrated headrest. If the asymmetric bolster is appealing and the 345mm spacing fits the car, the Classic II is the route to suede trim in this group. No FIA approval. Part number SS 53Z.
Have you written anything about this exact product?
Yes: Auto Style Type Classic Bucket Seats Now Available to View In-Store covers this product, from our own fittings and showroom.
Will I fit in this seat?
The maker lists no driver size restriction on this seat, so it suits the full range of heights and waists. Those are the paper numbers; how a seat actually feels to sit in and climb out of is a different question, and our showroom team sit in these seats every day, so call us with your height and waist and we will give you the honest answer.
What kind of car suits this seat?
Classic and retro vehicles, which is exactly what this shell is designed around. The low-back retro style belongs in a period build, not a modern car, however tempting the weight figure looks. If you are kitting out a modern road or track car, we will point you at the right modern shell instead.
Is this seat FIA approved?
No, this is a road and track day seat rather than a homologated competition seat. For events that require an FIA seat, look at the FIA-approved shells in the range, and ask us if you are unsure what your series needs.
What do I need to fit it to my car?
This is a base-mount seat: it bolts down through its base, the simpler stack for road cars. You will need the car-specific frame, and a sliding runner if you want fore-and-aft adjustment. Our guide on base mount versus side mount walks through the whole stack, and tell us your car and we will quote the full kit.
Does it work with harnesses and a HANS device?
The shell takes 4 point compatible. If you are planning the full seat, harness, and HANS setup, tell us the car and we will spec it end to end.
How do I know it will feel right, not just fit on paper?
Fair question, because makers publish widths and weights, never feel, and two seats with identical numbers can feel nothing alike in the car. We keep the ranges on display in the Nottingham showroom, you are welcome to come and sit in them, and if you cannot get to us, call and describe your build, as the team sit in these seats every day. Our head support measurements guide shows the kind of real-world data we collect.
