I wouldn't worry too much about the storage, the odd time I've put the sides in there, they rub together and get marked. It's a case of with or without before I leave for a run for me.
I like sideless look, in fact, it looks it's best with the roof on and the sides off, the studs are especially pretty.
When it comes to the steering wheels, l like them all, mine has an ivory brooklands, I've yet to see another 80th with the same.
A couple of tips unique to the 80ths, put some leather wax on the straps, they get water marked otherwise and spray duck oil or the likes on the shiny steel hubs, they will rust if left exposed.
