Finishline Performance Aluminum Fuel Lid

[12/14/2001] Reviewed by: Brad Ackerson - bradley.k.ackerson@kp.org

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter 1.8 liter

A chrome plated aluminum lid hinged within a similarly finished ring that is mounted to an underlying bracket with finish allen bolts. The outside edge is fitted with an o-ring to provide a professional finished appearance. OEM quality (made by same manufacturer that makes the M2 OEM lids), superb fit and finish. Light: 270 grams (9 oz) I did not weigh the original steel door, but the weight is probably similar.

Superb fit and finish. A <1/8 inch gap between the outer ring and the car body is easily masked by an included o-ring. Operates very nicely with the stock fuel lid release. Anyone who can operate a screwdriver can easily install this item (mounts via 3 of the 4 screws holding the filler tube in place). In my opinion, the chrome finish complements the other chrome M1 fittings (door handles, hard top mounts, Miata logo) and looks very sporty.

The first set had a couple scratches (due to a stocking mix up: a few returns were inadvertently restocked). However, Finish Line covered the return UPS and 2 day express delivered replacements which are flawless.

Under 5 minutes to remove


[12/5/2001] Reviewed by: John Fong - johnyfong@yahoo.ca

Applicable to: '90 - '97

Chrome gas lid replacing stock part.

Very easy to install and remove.

At first, I wanted to get the "classic" chrome gas lid that BSP sold, but at USD$175, it just wasn't worth the it. Luckily Finishline came out with a more modern looking chrome gas lid. I wanted that motorcycle gas lid look and this one certainly has that look. The gas lid installed in less than 10 minutes and looks great. One reviewer wrote that you can do without the rubber O-ring, but I'd advise you use it since it acts as a sealer against water getting into the gas chamber. The gas lid is not overly heavy, probably a little more than the stock lid. It also uses the existing gas release and there's no fear in breaking it, unlike the "classic" lid. This version of the chrome gas lid updates the look of the Miata while retaining that retro look. Many other manufacturers are using this type of gas lid to add a little retro look to their own cars, for example the Mustang Bullit, Audi TT and the Ferrari 550 Barchetta. For only $89, this is a great addition to the Miata!

Under 5 minutes to remove


[9/27/2001] Reviewed by: Harry Beck - hbeck@centurytel.net

Applicable to: '90 - '97

Aluminum fuel lid to replace your body colored lid. Works with the stock release mechanism. Includes a rubber gasket/o-ring which may provide some weather sealing, but I suspect, mostly keeps the lid from rubbing or rattling in the opening.

Finish Line sells two versions of this most excellent product - a satin aluminum finish and chrome plated. Which looks better is a matter of personal opinion. The satin aluminum is sort of a TT look. I like the chrome because it matches the chrome hardtop brackets and chrome door handles. The quality is excellent - very well engineered and constructed. It fits perfectly in the body and follows the contours of the fender. The only problem I had was the back edge of the lid didn't close completely when latched in place - the lid stood proud about 1/16". Perhaps my lid release mechanism is off a little. I solved this "problem" by filing the mounting plate under the latch that catches the release rod. I was able to finetune the fit until it was perfectly flush.

This definitely adds some class, and is very reasonably priced for such a quality piece. Finish Line is great to work with - usually the first place I look when "M" needs a new present!

Under 5 minutes to remove


8/2/2001] Reviewed by: Mike - m7powers@aol.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97

Finishline aluminum look fuel lid

Just purchased it and it's sitting on my desk.

What a great piece. Much better than the clunky rattle trap massive chrome plated cast gas lids that are out there. Works with the stock door pin and has a precision mechanism for that "pop up" action when the lid is opened. No rubber gasket on mine, though, but it doesn't matter because it would never seal. This is one of those nice items that the closer you look, the more beautiful details you notice. This is truly a precision manufactured piece -- no hand-bent components or home made brackets anywhere on it. The finish is beautiful too; I think the piece is cast aluminum and then it has some type of electroplating... looks like a cross between polished aluminum and nickel but definitely does not have the hard glossy look of chrome. Very tasteful, nice, well made. Can't say enough about it. Did I mention I liked it??

Under 30 minutes to remove completely


[6/26/2001] Reviewed by: Colin MacLean - colinmaclean@mediaone.net

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter 1.8 liter

This is a direct replacement for the stock fuel door. It is very similar to the Audi-TT fuel door and is manufactured by the same people who make the 99-01 Mazda OEM chrome fuel door. This is the same piece, but for the M1 and it is aluminum instead of chrome. $109 from www.miataparts.net

Install was a 10 minute job. It comes with a rubber gasket for a weathertight seal and a full set of instructions.

I am very, very impressed with this piece. It is my absolute favourite exterior addition. OEM fit and finish make this a winner. I have pictures at http://miata.cardomain.com/id/cmaclean if you're interested.

Under 5 minutes to remove


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