Posted By : William Davies, 14-Dec-2003,
11:07pm
Hi Neil,
As I remember it, when the rolling tax exemption was frozen at December 31st, 1972, it coincided with the well established cutoff for black on silver
numberplates. So a 1972 L-reg can sport black plates, but a 1973 L-reg can't. I think that's right, but someone else will be able to quote the law I'm
sure (Mike?)
Bear in mind that reflective plates were applied almost universally well before they became a legal requirement. I'm uncertain when they first became
available, but my 1969 Mk2 Triumph 2000 still wears it's original pair of reflective plates. Some cars immediately strike me as looking wrong with
black plates, simply because I'm not used to seeing them. The Spitfire MkIV and GT6 Mk3 are two such cars which come to mind.
Bear in mind also that your logbook has to be checked by law when new plates are ordered. The plate supplier SHOULD refuse to provide you with plates
which aren't legal for your car.
Cheers,
Bill.