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sterring column - sterring wheel for Renault AMI6-8

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Comparing the Citroën Ami 6 and Ami 8 Steering Wheels

With the Ami models—namely the Citroën Ami 6 and Ami 8—Citroën pursued its own design direction that stood out distinctly from the 2CV. Since the Ami series was positioned as a comfortable mid-range model between the 2CV and the luxurious DS, the steering wheels often served as a design statement.

Citroën Ami 6 Steering Wheel (1961–1969): The Legendary Single-Spoke Design

The Ami 6 was the first model in the A series—which also includes the 2CV—to feature the famous single-spoke steering wheel, long before it was introduced on the 2CV.

  • Inspired by the DS: The design was directly modeled after the flagship Citroën DS. The single spoke was intended to improve visibility of the instrument panel and yield in the event of a collision.
  • Material and feel: The steering wheel was wrapped in a fine nylon band, which provided a better grip and a more refined look.
  • Colors: To match the interior, the steering wheels were finished in shades of gray or beige, in contrast to the mostly black or steel-gray 2CV steering wheels of that era.

Citroën Ami 8 Steering Wheel (1969–1978): Modern Design and Upholstery

With the transition to the Ami 8, the design became more functional and safety-oriented.

  • Single-spoke tradition: The Ami 8 also retained the single-spoke design, though in a more substantial, padded version.
  • Safety impact pad: Unlike the delicate Ami 6 steering wheel, the Ami 8 featured a wide, padded hub or impact plate. The goal was to provide better occupant protection.
  • Foam padding: The steering wheel was completely wrapped in black or brown plastic foam, making it significantly thicker and more grippy than the thin steering wheels of the early 2CV.

Comparison: Citroën Ami steering wheels and 2CV

Model

Steering Wheel Style

Comparison to the 2CV

Ami 6

Delicate single-spoke wheel (wrapped)

Much more elegant; the 2CV still had simple 2-spoke metal steering whell

Ami 8

Solid, padded single-spoke wheel

The Ami 8 steering wheel served as the model for the later 2CV single-spoke wheel introduced in 1973.