[Help] Real dimensions of the racing seats

I am sorry that I do not recall the thread on this that was previously done. It lists the small, medium, and large size seats with the dimensions you need. It was done in the middle of the 458 run when people were discussing this very point.
I will try and locate if possible. Obviously, you can try a search as well.
Best

 

Found it:
It is on 36/430 Forum. 12/31/2010 post.
RichardCH from Switzerland posted the info with picture.
The thread title is: "Scuderia Seat Size Dimensions Large vs Medium".
If I copied the numbers correctly, they are:
The small seat is 320 mm at buttock, 325 at thigh and 250 at low back
The medium seat is 320 at buttock, 340 at thigh and 250 at low back.
The large seat is 345 at buttock, 370 at thigh, and 270 at low back.
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I know the seats are different. I wouldn't steer you wrong on this one. I have the race seat and am aware of the differences between race seat models.
It was in that thread that they showed the then new 458 nee now 488 race seat. It was a picture from the Ferrari literature. They also have old style race seat (from the 360/430) in the thread with their dimensions as well. It is obvious dimensions are for the "new" seat.
No, the dimensions I am quoting and the picture you will see is of the Goldrake seat in the 458/488 series cars.
Please look up for yourself.
I know this is important to you.
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Attached is photo of page I referred to
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

I can only provide what Ferrari has shown.
I am not the seat designer.
Regardless, the way the race seat is made, the seat "rolls" up and out at distal thigh area so that the area above the actually seat bottom is used by your leg. So it is technically an "inside" dimension" in my opinion.
Looking at all the dimension differences between the seats shows some are negligible in some places and is about 20 -30 mm in other areas. If you absolutely have to know the specific dimensions of the width inside the thigh area (on the seat bottom) - which I have no idea why - then measure a size large or whatever seat you have access to and compare it to the chart.

 

458 Italia, Driver's side, large CF race seat measured from my car...

A = 14", 356mm
B = 11.125", 283mm
C = 11.25", 286mm

 

I'm 5'6", 140 lbs, 41" chest, 30" waist, generally fit. The large seat fits me very well. I've sat on medium size ones at the dealer and the back is bit too tight. You will find that the the area A as you have marked is quite 'forgiving' as most people don't have 14" in combined width just above the knees. Both medium and large will be fine. It's the seat back, marked are C, that seems to be more critical...especially on a track where lateral support is more crucial. Shoulder width, hence upper back, tends to vary more widely among people, e.g., men vs. women. I personally think your chest and waist determine which size may fit better, not your hip or legs. The atelier service may allow further customization of using different size seat bottoms and backs. In the USA, dealers always recommend large seats for resale reasons. Don't forget winter clothing will also add bulk in the upper body, especially in European cold weather. I wish the CF race seats had adjustable lateral support.

 

Do you guys not eat ?

 

I think this seat stuff is like shoes. You need to try them. I'm 182 cm and 73 kg with a 30-31" waist. I find I swim in the large seats when the going really gets going and I need medium. I even have pretty big thighs for my size as I used to be a lightweigh competitive rower. That was when I weighted in at 68 kg - now I'm old and fat

Yes, and some of us enjoy fitness and sports every day

 

Don't overlook 2 billion Asians that may well have smaller frames, shoulders, and back. Ferrari's sell like hot cakes in China alone. Women most likely will need medium or small seats.

I am a competitive swimmer, hence, I have larger shoulders and upper back for my frame. Large seat backs fit well. I could go with the medium seat bottom but they don't come in that combination. These seats are like gloves; you do need to try them for a proper fit. Measurements alone cannot determine how and where they fit best.

 

Yes, I do eat! Sometimes a lot! During training in competitive season, I need to take in 5000 calories a day. 3200 is just for workout requirements. The positive side effect is that I can get in and out of my 458 coupe quite easily!

 

Hey guys just checking to see any follow up thoughts?

I'm looking at buying a used one and it seems hard to find different seats to try and on the used market finding a car with racing seats is hard enough finding one in a medium is even harder.

Most everything is Large? at 6ft tall 165lbs large should be ok?

Thanks

 

I have medium-sized race seats (fabric version). They suits me perfect. I'm 5'11" and 170lb, waist 31".

 

Always best to sit in the seats when possible. I'm 5' - 9", 178lbs, and ordered an incoming 488 Spider with large seats. My decision was based on several factors.

They were comfortable in the cars I drove in the Corso Pilota.
My dealer recommended the large size, indicated that's their normal spec for most orders.
Resale (Not that I have a plan to resell, but I'm assuming it would be easier with the larger seats.)

If planning to track your car, then perhaps a "glove-like" fit would be better, in which case based on your weight maybe the medium would be better???



Jim

 

I have the large seats, am 5'9" and 170lbs. They fit me great.