Jocko,
To give you an idea of how the Mk3 wheel affects things, the chrome trim at the top of the speedo is not visible at all with the seat raised or wheel lowered. The rim would actually be close to covering the 80mph number in your photo.
I’m not sure what dimension they have changed for the clutch problem, but I first noticed it on a 2008 Civic I was trying to test drive. I literally could not let the clutch up. It was undriveable for me, though clearly not for everyone. The Mk3 Jazz is nowhere near that bad. With the wheel at its highest my knee misses the wheel easily enough.
I must have an unusual body shape I suppose.
I like the Mk3 very much, little niggles and all, and I don’t regret buying it as long as it reliably lasts me at least 10 years, but there’s a lot of good things about cars from 10+ years ago like yours and I think I read you said you intend to keep it. Good move imho.
I’m still sad I got rid of my 2003 Civic despite the rust I could see eventually becoming an issue, and watch HubNut YouTube videos with a certain amount of envy even though I know I’m not capable of the maintenance needed anymore.