20 replies to this topic

[Mon_Papillon]

Hello All,

I sourced a bargain set of MK2 rear lights, arrived today so I put one in the hole to see what I think. I was all set to love them but something doesn't quite sit right for me - maybe it's the car colour? Anyway thoughts and opinions needed! (Car is on the wonk due to N/S front being jacked up for inner wheel arches)



Thanks

MP

[AVV IT]

Yeah I kinda see where you're coming from. I think it might be that the racing green/ flame red/ checkmate models all have a that very definite late 80's/early 90's styling of the early Rover coopers.  Fitting Mk2/3 rear lamps, tends to give a mini a slightly more retro feel, which works better if the car has an overall period look, or doesn't have a particular styling of a specific period. 

 

........Oh & are those wheel arch liners I see in the back ground?   

 

If so, I have them on both my minis & they're a really good investment, get 'em on quick though, especially if your minis on the road at this time of year!

[Nikko]

I think I like the one without the clear bit on the lense more. It's a more simple look.

[megamini_jb]

The standard ones look better.

[slidehammer]

Keep it standard as it is a limited edition, also the reverse lights are good on the mini are very useful at times

[deanymini]

Am I the only one who thinks that the mkII lights look better?

[DomCr250]

Am I the only one who thinks that the mkII lights look better?

Me too ...make the whole backend look 'smaller' if you know what I mean?

[jaydee]

Its a matter of proportion

The actual MK3 design (which your MK5 is based on) was with the smaller lamps and wheels

Its likely that with the bigger wheels and flares the later tail lights look better

Edited by jaydee, 14 January 2016 - 02:27 PM.

[Mon_Papillon]

I really cannot decide - both look great, as I don't need to destroy the loom maybe I'll try the mk2s properly and see how it looks. However keeping it 'stock' also has a charm.

I would never get rid of the original lights which would mean it's easy to change back.

Either way that GB sticker has to go!

Also the liners are currently being fitted - it's a weekend toy so no rush and it won't see water or salt, however just seemed such a cheap and easy mod to massively protect the front end.

Keep your opinions coming people :)

[jaydee]

Dont remember the law requirements, but I'd suggest putting a reverse light, even one of those cheap lights you put on the valance, if you use the MK2 light

[Mon_Papillon]

Dont remember the law requirements, but I'd suggest putting a reverse light, even one of those cheap lights you put on the valance, if you use the MK2 light

My understanding is that it is not a legal requirement but I have to inform my insurer...

[AVV IT]

Dont remember the law requirements, but I'd suggest putting a reverse light, even one of those cheap lights you put on the valance, if you use the MK2 light

My understanding is that it is not a legal requirement but I have to inform my insurer...

I could be wrong, but I thought it was technically still a legal requirement on vehicles after a certain year (possibly 1984, or 1986) under either C&U, or lighting regs. I think it's just that many of us (including me) don't bother as it's not a testable item on the MOT.

You're right though, in that you do need to advise your insurer of both the change of tail lights & the absence of a reversing lamp, but if you did want to fit a valance mounted version, the Landrover defender reversing lamp happens to be the same design & dimensions as a classic mini fog lamp but with a clear lens & so makes a symmetrical looking solution, when mounted on a classic mini near side fog lamp bracket.

[pdaykin]

Personally, I prefer the later lights.

The more modern look of the car (metallic green, arches etc) doesn't suit mk2 lights.

But one of the good things about minis is you can change things and make them how you like them.

If you ask the same question in 2 years time I'd probably give you a different answer because my taste will have changed

[Dr s]

I think the early lights clash with the modern fog, GB and modern plate. 

 

Maybe ditch the fog & GB, and try a pressed ally plate? then it might look better?

[Mon_Papillon]

I think the early lights clash with the modern fog, GB and modern plate. 
 
Maybe ditch the fog & GB, and try a pressed ally plate? then it might look better?

The GB has gone, does make it look better - I'm still one mk2 one mk4 at the moment, need to make a call at some point soon! Haha