jslenk

What is the difference between 99 and 01 headlights? Thanks

NW Bill

While similar, they are two different shapes and neither is a direct replacement for the other. However, it is possible to swap the NB2 (2001+) and NB1 (1999-2000) headlights with some trimming of the bumper cover, etc. You should be able to easily find threads (and photos) on the needed modifications on a number of Miata websites.

Bill

See this, from: http://clubroadster.net/vb_forum/20-...sion-nbfl.html

The '01+ headlights are slightly thinner.
'01-'05 bumper needs to be trimmed to fit '99-'00 headlights.
'01-'05 headlights fit with the '99-'00 bumper, but leave a gap.

jslenk

Thank You for the reply.

Redcap

NB1 (99-00) headlamps are a little taller and bulbous, while NB2 (01-05) are sleeker - a little shorter, but lengthier. As most people go from NB1 to the NB2 lamps, here's a picture. Up close, you'll notice a gap just under the headlamp. On a dark car, not really that noticeable, but may vary with a lighter colored car. I did also have to dremel the inner area circled a bit for the wider NB2 lamp to fit.

jslenk

Thanks. Would a NB2 Bumper cover fit and would it beneficial to make it look better?

Redcap

Yes, that would basically fix the entire problem. It just boosts the project costs a bit.

It's really a matter of preference though. As a Miata owner, I can tell, but if you look at all of the pics online, it's not very noticeable. I have an NB2 bumper, but too lazy/cheap to get it painted so far. I can say that beyond aesthetics, the NB2 projector upgrade is is great. Adding in some inexpensive HID kits (not fake bulbs) and the night visibility is stellar.

jslenk

Thanks maybe I'll try the projector lights and HID's

Redcap

My friends and I went with the VVME.com HID kits. Straight outta China. We ordered 8 kits total between a few cars, they were that cheap. Out of the 8, 2 had bad ballasts (out of the 16 total). But frankly, even adding in shipping to buy new ballasts, it STILL came out cheaper than anything else. I went with the slim kit. Didn't have any problems at all since the install other than getting the wiring right.

jslenk

Bought HID's off Ebay and WOW what a difference, I can see now.