I wasn't sure on the colour when I first got them... Black with a silver overlay "dusted" accross the front surface, but now they are fitted I think they look quite good
Now, if only I could swap my Chrome XPower Knob for a Black XPower Knob! (Then I'd have a Shiney Black Knob.... ooo err!!)
Springs are easy enough if nothing seizes and nothing breaks! If all bolts come undone as they should, all you will need is a spring compressor to remove the stock springs, not required to re-assemble. You can borrow mine.
TBH the biggest problem working on the car at this time of the year is its soo dark after the kids go to bed!!
Wouldn't be so bad if the car would swing into the garage!!! (Garage is so close to the house you could just about swing an origional mini in if your lucky)