Which Steel Frame Seat Should You Pick? A Complete Guide to Our Bestselling Models
When it comes to choosing the perfect steel frame bucket seat for your race car or simulator, GSM Performance has you covered with a carefully curated selection of top-performing models. Steel frame bucket seats offer a robust and cost-effective solution for both track-day enthusiasts and competitive motorsport drivers. At our Nottingham-based showroom, we proudly stock and display the most popular models on the market — the Sparco Sprint, OMP TRS-E, and Cobra Monaco — all ready for in-store viewing and testing.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key features of each seat model, explore the different sizing and FIA approval options, and help you compare them side by side to find the ideal fit for your driving setup. If you’re shopping for a seat to suit a tight cockpit or need a wider model to accommodate a broader build, we’ll help guide your decision.
Why Choose a Steel Frame Bucket Seat?
Many of our customers opt for steel frame bucket seats because they offer an excellent balance of durability, comfort, and affordability. For those just getting into motorsport, building a budget-conscious track car, or upgrading their sim rig, steel frame seats are often the perfect starting point. They’re trusted by weekend racers and seasoned drivers alike for their robust construction and reliable support.
Compared to fibreglass bucket seats, steel frame seats are typically heavier and have a simpler internal structure. However, this added weight is often a non-issue for sim racing setups or track day builds where weight savings are less critical. Steel seats also tend to be more affordable, making them ideal for those who want a racing-style seat without stretching their budget.
Sparco Sprint Bucket Seat Range (Standard & L Sizes)
The Sparco Sprint has long been a go-to option for drivers seeking a reliable steel frame seat at an affordable price. The 2025 update brings refined styling and a stronger construction, while maintaining the FIA approval needed for competitive motorsport use.
We stock multiple versions of this seat:
Sparco Sprint Standard/Sky – Ideal for slim to medium build drivers.
- Internal width: approx. 418mm (hips)
- Shoulder width: approx. 505mm
- Backrest Height: 590mm
Sparco Sprint L – Designed to support larger drivers comfortably.
- Internal width: approx. 470mm (hips)
- Shoulder width: approx. 570mm
- Backrest Height: 620mm
All models feature side-mount compatibility, fire-retardant upholstery, harness slots for a 5- or 6-point harness, and solid bolstering for excellent lateral support. The standard-sized Sparco Sprint seat in both velour fabric and vinyl trim options provides great fitment for compact vehicles, thanks to its slim design, making it suitable for cars like the Mazda MX5, Honda S2000, and BMW Z3. The L version, however, is wider and may not suit more confined interiors.
OMP TRS-E Seat Range (Standard, XL, FIA & Non-FIA)
The OMP TRS-E seat range offers a brilliant balance of comfort, support, and value for both competitive and recreational drivers. With FIA-approved and non-FIA versions available, this seat is perfect whether you’re building a serious race car or just enjoying spirited track days.
There are two size options:
OMP TRS-E Standard
- Internal width: approx. 390mm
- Shoulder width: approx. 585mm
- Backrest Height: 550mm
OMP TRS-E XL
- Internal width: approx. 415mm
- Shoulder width: approx. 625mm
- Backrest Height: 620mm
Key features include:
- Durable steel frame construction
- High side bolsters for added lateral support
- Removable leg cushions for custom comfort
- Side and base mount options for versatile installation
The non-FIA version is perfect for sim rigs or casual track use without the added expense of homologation, while the FIA-approved models meet strict motorsport safety standards.
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From £199.50 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Cobra Monaco Bucket Seat Range (Pro, Sport, and Narrow Models)
The Cobra Monaco series is a staple in the world of steel-frame racing seats. This range is known for its comfort, stylish design, and versatility with multiple trim options and FIA or non-FIA variants.
Key models in our range:
Cobra Monaco Pro (FIA approved)
- Internal width: approx. 405mm
- Shoulder width: approx. 550mm
- Backrest Height: 560mm
Cobra Monaco Sport (non-FIA)
- Internal width: approx. 405mm
- Shoulder width: approx. 550mm
- Backrest Height: 560mm
Cobra Monaco Sport Narrow – Ideal for compact cabins
- Internal width: approx. 395mm
- Shoulder width: approx. 510mm
- Backrest Height: 560mm
The Monaco Pro is suitable for competitive motorsport use with side-mount compatibility and premium trim. The Monaco Sport, available in various colours and styles, is ideal for custom builds or sim setups. We proudly display both the Monaco Sport Narrow and Monaco Pro in our showroom so customers can test fit in person.
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From £220.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
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From £220.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
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From £235.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Standard vs XL Seat Sizes – Fitment Considerations
All standard-sized steel frame bucket seats in this range are slim enough to fit inside narrow cockpits, including vehicles like the Mazda MX5, Honda S2000, and BMW Z3, which are known for their limited cabin space. However, the XL seats — such as the OMP TRS-E XL and Sparco Sprint L — are significantly wider and will not fit in many compact vehicles. These seats are better suited for larger cabin layouts or custom racing simulators where space isn’t as restricted.
We always recommend double-checking your interior measurements before selecting an XL-sized seat to avoid clearance issues.
Browse Our Full Steel Frame Seat Collection
Looking for more options? Our full range of steel frame bucket seats includes even more models, designs, and trim variations not currently on display in-store. Whether you’re after FIA-approved safety or a more budget-friendly sim setup, we have something for everyone.
Browse Our Full Steel Frame Seat Collection
With a wide selection of steel-frame bucket seats on offer — all available to view and test in our showroom — choosing the right seat has never been easier. Whether you’re after the FIA-approved Cobra Monaco Pro, the versatile OMP TRS-E, or the newly updated Sparco Sprint 2025, GSM Performance has a seat tailored to your size, style, and motorsport goals.
Pop in-store to try them out, or get in touch with our team for expert advice. We’re here to make sure you find the perfect seat — both for you and your car.