Mini Spyder Mirror, Left Or Right Side, Universal Fit

OVERVIEW

The EMPI Mini Spyder Mirror is the ultimate solution for air-cooled enthusiasts looking to shed the bulky, utilitarian look of stock factory mirrors in favor of a sleek, aerodynamic profile that screams vintage performance. Inspired by the iconic ''Baby Turbo'' style mirrors that graced high-end European sports cars, this mirror offers that aggressive, low-profile aesthetic without the exorbitant price tag usually associated with Italian imports. Whether you are building a Cal-Look street sleeper, a stripped-down beach buggy, or a refined Karmann Ghia, the Mini Spyder mirror provides a modern touch that respects the classic lines of your Volkswagen. The standout feature is the integrated blue-tinted glass, which is specifically designed to reduce harsh headlight glare during night driving, ensuring that your rear-view visibility remains sharp even when a modern SUV is riding your bumper.

What sets this mirror apart from generic universal options is the exclusive base design engineered by EMPI. This base is contoured to ensure a much cleaner fit against the unique curves of a Type 1 door skin, solving the common problem of ''gaps'' seen with lesser aftermarket mirrors. Because it is designed for universal fitment on either the left or right side of the vehicle, you can achieve a perfectly symmetrical look by installing a pair, or simply replace a single damaged unit with ease. The adjustable mounting bracket features a wide range of center-to-center spacing, making it an excellent candidate for covering up existing holes from previous mirror installations or for custom mounting on fiberglass bodies like the Meyers Manx. It is a robust, vibration-resistant upgrade that brings both safety and style to your vintage ride.

FITMENT

This mirror is designed for universal application but includes a base specifically optimized for VW Type 1 bodies. It is commonly installed on the following models:

• Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1): 1950 through 1979 (Sedan and Convertible)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14): 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All years (Meyers Manx, EMPI Imp, etc.)
• Kit Cars: Bradley GT, Fiberfab, and various Porsche 356 replicas
• Custom Applications: Any flat or slightly curved surface with access to the backside for mounting

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Appletree Auto ensures you have the exact dimensions needed for a seamless installation. Here are the technical details for the EMPI 00-4590-0:

• Overall Length: 8 3/8 inches from the tip of the housing to the end of the base
• Mirror Glass Length: 5 inches
• Mirror Glass Height: 3 inches
• Housing Thickness: 2 1/2 inches
• Mounting Range: Adjustable from 2 1/8 inches to 3 5/8 inches center-to-center
• Glass Type: High-definition blue-tinted anti-glare glass
• Configuration: Ambidextrous (Fits either Left or Right side)
• Housing Material: Impact-resistant UV-treated composite
• Finish: Satin Black (Paintable to match your vehicle''s color code)

PRO TIPS FROM THE SHOP

Tip 1: Prep the Surface and Seal the Deal

When installing the Mini Spyder mirror on a freshly painted VW, always use a thin rubber gasket or a bead of high-quality silicone around the base. Even though the EMPI base is designed for the Type 1, a gasket prevents metal-to-metal (or plastic-to-metal) contact that can trap moisture and lead to rust over time. If you are mounting this on a fiberglass buggy, use a large fender washer on the underside of the body to distribute the load and prevent the mounting bolts from pulling through the gel coat during high-speed vibration.

Tip 2: Mastering the Blue Tint Visibility

Don''t be alarmed by the blue tint when you first take it out of the box; it is an intentional safety feature. To get the most out of the anti-glare properties, ensure the mirror is adjusted so you can see the lane next to you without seeing the side of your own car. Because these mirrors are slightly smaller than stock ''Elephant Ear'' mirrors, proper positioning is critical. We recommend having a helper hold the mirror in place while you sit in the driver''s seat to find the ''sweet spot'' before you drill any new holes in your door skin.

Tip 3: Paint for a Factory Custom Look

While the satin black finish looks great on most buggies and street cars, these housings are made of a material that takes paint very well. If you want a more integrated look, you can scuff the housing with 400-grit sandpaper, apply a plastic-adhesion promoter, and spray them to match your car''s body color. This gives your VW a high-end ''GT'' appearance that looks like it came from the factory. Just remember to mask off the glass and the pivot ball carefully before spraying to ensure smooth adjustment after the paint dries.