Opinions on Side Mirrors

[davery]

I have posted a couple of threads on my issue and wanted to get everyone's opinion. I really hate the side mirrors on my 85. They look like they do not belong and mine really don't work all that well. I am wanting to replace them. I have sort of resigned myself to mounting the new side mirrors on the door (although I did find a set that would mount on the vent window, but the existing hole is in the wrong location). But do I buy a vent window frame assembly from a pre-1983 spider and replace my existing vent windows? Or do I just replace the glass in my existing frame assemblies? I can get glass cut and installed for about $80. The cheapest I have seen the vent window frame assembly is about $150 shipped to me.

I really have not decided upon which side mirrors to go with. I originally though of just using a Miata mirror. Now I am leaning toward the Vitaloni Sebrings, as on the Abarth, but am worried about the usefulness. They seem so small. Then I saw a pic of a mirror off a 95 Olds Delta that looked really nice. Opinions?

[jfrawley]

I have a pair of vent windows from a 1980 Spider that I'll sell you for a lot less. PM me with an offer.

[Jimb]

I really like the originals. They identify the car as a unique, 85 model, and they do look very stylish.

Jim

[Exit98]

Davery,

I've got the original early rear view mirror and I wouldn't change it for anything. Works perfect, looks great and gives a good field of vision.



Recently George (NJFiat1981) drove my car, he's used to the later mirrors, and he quickly decided that he now wants one just like mine.

I've seen them installed on the passenger side too but that's strictly decorative. Without a convex lens its of no value. I don't have any problem not having one there, the top's usually down and even with the top up its easy to check the blind spot.

[davery]

My existing mirrors do not work, as they will not stay adjusted. And I think they look very dated. I would like something a little more updated. I guess that is why I am hesitant about putting the pre-1983 vent windows.

I actually found these pics somewhere online. They are from a 1995 Olds Delta. I think they look pretty good.



Anyone know what these mirrors are from?



The other option is to go with the Vitaloni Sebrings, as on the Abarth. I really like these, but am concerned about actually being able to use them if I mount them on the door. They seem really small.

[wikkid]

Small mirrors should not be a problem. They are there to give you an idea of someone being behind you,like an extension of your peripheral vision - not much more info than that. I have 3" round bar-end mirrors on my motorcycle; granted, they are convex and therefore have a wide view angle, but they work fine. I think the color-coordinated units you showed in your pics are not right for the Spider, but that is just personal taste.

[westy64]

[quote="davery"]

Anyone know what these mirrors are from?



Fiat Barchetta ?

[azruss]

the effectiveness of a mirror is how close it is to the driver. both the inside and outside driver mirror are close and thus give a wide view with a small mirror. I'm more interest in whose silver spider that is. Seriously nice mods.

[geno58]

Yea, that silver spider has got to be one of the Nicest I've seen. Would really like to see more of it.

[rodman]

Yea, that silver spider has got to be one of the Nicest I've seen. Would really like to see more of it.

yeah me too have any full size pictures of the front rear and sides ?

[divace73]

I've used Tex convex anti dazzle mirrors (same mirror that is on the MG) and am very happy with the result, I had to make a seperate base as I already had the holes in the door and didn't want to drill any more.
They are very good quality stainless steel and are make in the UK



Here is a shot of the older Mirror I hae on which looked great but I couldn't see squat out of them, hence the change

[davery]

Yea, that silver spider has got to be one of the Nicest I've seen. Would really like to see more of it.

yeah me too have any full size pictures of the front rear and sides ?

Here is all I have. Here is what the write up said:

I redesigned a 1980 Fiat Spider 200 Roadster to a modern look. Rebuilt stock engine and transmission with 17 inches custom wheels, Heavy duty suspensions, Super bright white headlights, AM/FM with CD changers on front with 6 powerful speakers, New seats, Steering wheel, Side mirrors, Canvas top, roll bars and many more. Spent approx of $ 30K. She is a very unique one. Handle nice on the road and she is a beauty. A superstar to be, so proud how she turned out. For more information, you may drop me a note. Thank you

[divace73]

they

Anyone know what these mirrors are from?

They look a little like RX7 mirrors?