What's The Size Difference Between The Recaro Pole Position ABE And OMP RT?
When it comes to choosing the perfect bucket seat for your car, size, fitment, and purpose are the key considerations that can make or break your driving experience. Whether you’re pushing the limits on the track or cruising comfortably on the road, finding a seat that fits your body and driving style is essential. Two popular options among motorsport and car enthusiasts are the Recaro Pole Position ABE and the OMP RT. These bucket seats are celebrated for their premium quality, ergonomic designs, and tailored support, but they cater to slightly different drivers and applications.Â
In this blog, we’ll dive into the size differences between these seats and compare their features, design nuances, and intended uses to help you determine which is the better fit for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a snug race-focused seat or a versatile option that transitions seamlessly between the road and track, understanding the details is crucial to making the right choice.
Recaro Pole Position ABE VS OMP RT
These two seats differ not only in their target audience and certification but also in their physical dimensions, which play a major role in fitment and comfort. The Recaro Pole Position ABE measures approximately 500mm in width, 880mm in height, and 495mm in depth, making it well-suited to accommodate taller drivers while maintaining a balance between support and comfort. By comparison, the OMP RT is slightly more compact, with dimensions of approximately 495 mm in width, 850 mm in height, and 530 mm in depth. This makes it ideal for tighter spaces and drivers who prefer a more snug fit.
Both the Recaro Pole Position ABE and OMP RT deliver high-quality performance and exceptional design, but they are tailored for different priorities. The Recaro Pole Position ABE stands out as a versatile seat that blends comfort with sporty aesthetics, making it an ideal choice for road use and light track activities. Its ergonomic design and multiple trim options offer practicality and style, catering to a broader range of drivers. On the other hand, the OMP RT is built with motorsport at its core, offering FIA homologation, an aggressive design, and uncompromising support for high-performance racing scenarios. While the Recaro emphasizes comfort and adaptability, the OMP RT focuses on delivering precision and security for dedicated track enthusiasts.
Recaro Pole Position ABE Overview
The Recaro Pole Position ABE is a sleek and versatile seat designed for both the track and road. It features:
- Construction: Made of durable fibreglass, the seat offers a lightweight yet strong structure.
- Comfort: Approved for road use with Advanced Body Ergonomics (ABE), providing exceptional comfort.
- Design: Classic bucket seat styling with high bolsters for lateral support.
- Customisation: Available in a range of trim options, including leather, suede, and fabric, to match your car’s interior.
The Pole Position ABE is well-suited for taller drivers and those who value a balance of comfort and sporty aesthetics.
OMP RT Overview
The OMP RT is built with competitive motorsport in mind and boasts FIA homologation, making it a go-to choice for track enthusiasts. Key features include:
- Construction: A mix of carbon and fibreglass, providing an optimal blend of strength and weight savings.
- Support: High side bolsters and a wraparound design for increased safety and support during high-speed maneuvers.
- Design: Aggressive styling tailored for racing, with FIA certification for peace of mind on the track.
- Fit: Designed with performance in mind, accommodating a snug and secure fit for optimal driver control.
The OMP RT appeals to those looking for uncompromising performance and compliance with racing regulations.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Recaro Pole Position ABE vs. OMP RT
| Feature | Recaro Pole Position ABE | OMP RT |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Fibreglass | Carbon-Fibreglass Hybrid |
| Weight | Approx. 7.7 kg | Approx. 7.9 kg |
| Support Level | Moderate bolstering, ideal for road and light track use | High bolstering, designed for track use |
| Driver Height Suitability | Ideal for drivers up to 6’4″ (195 cm) | Recommended for drivers up to 6’2″ (188 cm) |
| Waist Size Suitability | Comfortable for waists up to 34-36 inches | Best suited for waists up to 32-34 inches |
| Certification | ABE-approved for road use | FIA homologated for motorsport |
| Trim Options | Multiple trims available (leather, suede, fabric) | Standard race trim |
| Target Audience | Dual-purpose (road and occasional track) | Motorsport-focused |
Key Differences in Design and Support
- Support: The Recaro Pole Position ABE offers moderate lateral support, making it more suitable for long-distance road trips and occasional spirited driving. On the other hand, the OMP RT’s high side bolsters and wraparound headrest provide a more immersive and secure feel, ideal for track use but less forgiving for daily comfort.
- Driver Fitment: While the Pole Position ABE can accommodate taller and broader drivers, the OMP RT is optimized for a tighter fit. This makes the OMP seat more suited to smaller-framed individuals or those who prefer a racing-style snugness.
- Versatility: The Pole Position ABE shines in dual-purpose setups, allowing users to enjoy it in both daily driving and on the track. Conversely, the OMP RT is unapologetically focused on motorsport performance.
Which Seat is Right for You?
Choose the Recaro Pole Position ABE if:
- You’re looking for a versatile seat that balances comfort and performance.
- You’re a taller or larger-framed driver.
- Your car is used for both daily driving and occasional track events.
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Choose the OMP RT if:
- You’re a dedicated track enthusiast requiring FIA homologation.
- You prefer a highly supportive and snug fit.
- Aggressive styling and uncompromising performance are top priorities.
Final Thoughts
The Recaro Pole Position ABE and OMP RT are both exceptional seats, but their differences in design and fitment make them suitable for distinct audiences. Whether you’re a road driver who occasionally enjoys track days or a motorsport aficionado needing race-ready gear, understanding these differences will help you make the right choice.
At GSM Performance, we’re here to help you find the perfect seat for your needs. We have both the OMP RT and the Recaro Pole Position ABE bucket seats on display at our showroom ready for viewing and testing in-store for the 2025 season.Â