E39 Steering wheel upgrade

[gmal]

I own a 2000 540i6 sport (built 8/99) - love the car, great handling and acceleration.
BUT the steering wheel leaves alot to be desired - although it's heated (a bonus for cold climates) and equiped with electronic controls, it is huge and skinny - compromissing the feel of the car. So I am looking to replace it and was looking for some advise.

I have three options so far.
Option 1: M-Technic 385mm steering wheel and new air bag. This one fits according to the BMW alternative parts CD - but no heat.
Part# is 32342228891

Option 2: M-Technic 379mm wheel & new airbag. Wheel is a bit thicker than the one above, apparently nicer stiching - hence preferable. Part# is 32342229103
However it shows as available for cars built on/after 09/99.
Any thoughts if this fits my 8/99?

Option 3: probably a long-shot - but I noticed the '04 X5 4-spoke steering wheel is smaller, thicker and heated - and the electronic functions are identical to mine. Can this wheel fit?
Part# is 32346751178 or 32346751179 - not sure of the difference.

thanks in advance for any information the forum may be able to provide.
gmal

[Quack]

I have the same problem, I want to be able to change steering wheels for the summer, no need for heat steering wheel function in the summer, I wanted the M wheel from the newer models E39 but was told that theu have 2-stage air-bags so that means 2 connectors for the air-bag, I'm trying to figure something out as to how to install & convert it

[Paul540/m3]

gotta love the heated wheel

im not sure if i would be willing to give that up

[///Greco540]

Why don't look into Victor steering wheels. Its a 4 spoke design that lets you keep your existing airbag, but it is smaller in diameter, and alot thicker, plus it comes with wood trim as well and has the heated function.

Here is an example: http://www.bimmerboard.com/forums/posts/3120

Also all the steering wheel info you need to know: http://www.bmwdiy.info/msport-wheel/index.html

[Quack]

thanks Greco that Victor wheel isn't bad, the wood is kinda shitty looking though, do you know where & how much that wheel cost?

[gmal]

I could not find details on the Victor wheel.
I did find details on the Hamann wheel - it is not heated and is about the same size as the original - mine being 397mm +/- a few mill.

[Axxe]

My Dad has got the M5 wheel in his. It pretty sweet, and honestly, heated wheel? Wimps.