Is the other problem that some games use the wheel as an optical device (ala a spinner) but some use them as a non-optical device (like a joystick)?  I think that's how I rememer it.
That's the same problem we're talking about: 
360 degree wheel = spinner = optical wheel (= mouse), 
270 = POTs = analog joystick (= PC steering wheel).
There are exceptions (roadblasters 

 ), but in general the above words are inter changable on this board as listed.
Hmm, I should make a list of the different games and controls and post it somewhere.
Yes plz.  
[foot="in mouth"]  Here's a table ( 
http://www.urebelscum.speedhost.com/drivingInputs.html ).  Flying, bicyle, motorcyle and clone games are 
not included.  
approximate totals: 33 optical, 38 POTs (games)