Distance sat from steering wheel and pedals

[spooderman]

Been told I have a 'racing drivers' seat position as I naturally sit very close to the pedals and steering wheel. I also notice that when my vehicle has been driven by someone else (at a garage for example) the seats are always very far back; this given that I am not a short person (6 ft).

Is a close seating position preferred by race drivers? In fact I do have a tendency for spirited drives on private roads.

[spooderman]

bump (to the top)

[daveenty]

Don't know about race drivers but I was always told that you should be able to depress the clutch without stretching your leg, and a very slight bend left on your knee. Also, when leaning back, reach over the steering wheel with both hands and your wrists should touch the top of the wheel.

This is how mine is set and it works for me. Years ago when I first bought an AMG (E55), I set off a bit sharpish with the seat too far back for me. The force threw me back and my foot came off the gas pedal, cue car lurching forwards and throwing my foot back again, causing the car to kangaroo down the road to the bemusement of other drivers.

I learnt since then...

[Pebbles167]

When on track I found sitting too close meant I felt cramped and my elbows hit my knees forcing me to change hand position. I now sit far enough back that I can cross my arms without letting go of the steering wheel.

[JDMDrifter]

I have found my best seating position is as low as the seat will go, very far back and upright. Steering wheel is low and pulled out as far as it will go. Dad says it's like a touring car seating position, I'm level with the b pillar in my work hack.

[BritishRacinGrin]

Why do you care if racing drivers, or anybody else for that matter, like it? If you like it and can operate the car properly that's all that matters.