The MX5 looks so much better without a front numberplate, imo especially the MK2.5 because of the shape of the grille opening.
But seeing as the law would prefer we had one, where is the best looking location?
Opinions appreciated please!
Thanks - Darren.
Position 1
1 or 4 Both the others block airflow
I currently have a trimmed number plate in Position 2 but have a full-sized legally-spaced plate to go on and I’m worried about the airflow too. I currently only go on very short journeys but want to start going on longer runs.
Thanks for your comment! 
I’ve found a company that claim their stick on plates are legal
From what I have read (and maybe how I read it) the bend test is where stick on plates fall foul. The test hangs a 2 kg weight from the plate for 2 hours, if once removed the plate remains bent by more than 25mm it fails. IMO A stick on plate should easily return to its original shape. The second issue is that plates need to be fitted as near vertical as reasonably practically possible.
Position 1
Position 3, as it is the only legal and practical position. Also the most aerodynamic if used on a plinth. Ask yourself the question, why are these cars made with a plinth that is positioned as number 3?
Answer, it’s the best and only legal place to have it.
I don’t like the way it looks either. But if you chose position 1 you are very liable to lose the plate on a curb or suchlike. Also it must cause a lot of turbulence being fitted like that?
Positions 2 and 4 will severely restrict air flow, and could easily cause overheating issues.
Any stick on leaves you open to being pulled by the police.
Thanks.
The kerb risk I ignored because I’d have it high enough to avoid it, and there’s a small lip below it at the very base of the bumper.
The turbulence issue hadn’t crossed my mind. Good point!
Position 1 is legal look at a Peugeot
True, and I’m sure other cars.
Others cars gave me the ideas for some of the locations.
The square plate looks good, but not sure it suits the Mk2.5 grille without it looking like buck teeth 
Hi Darren, yes I’ve thought mine looks like Tow Mater the breakdown truck from Cars! 
however, I bought the full Zunsport grille (without the plate cut out), removed the plinth completely and then fitted the 12 x 6 plates front and rear They do have manufacturers name, address and the BS AU 145d number displayed.
Barrie
I would choose position 3 and a plinth could be fitted there too. 2 & 4 will be detrimental to airflow and 1 does not look secure enough, even if it probably is.
Tow Mater
Barrie, having looked on line it appears that the regulations are only concerned with lettering font and spacing, including spacing from the edges of the plate. Whilst there is an ‘industry standard’ size for number plates, it would appear that provided the font and spacing are correct the plate overall size can deviate from the industry standard.
JS
If it helps…
I had the Mk2 RS import it came with square plates front and rear, TBH I hated the front one so went for the standard oblong plates.
I returned it back to standard before I sold it, back to it’s original plate too as I wanted to retain that on the oblong one.
Can I recommend www.jdmplates.co.uk
I just had some made up for my bike. They can reduce the size of the plate to the minimum legally required if you want to stick to uk spec (complete with bsau146d markings) or they also do jdm size plates which look legit but could give you legal problems if you car is not imported.
I’ll take a look at that, thanks!
