Well, finally installed boys. Love the look and for me color matching was the right way to go. Ended up only costing $100 for paint.
I'm about 98% happy with fitment, but don't expect perfection because it's a replica and because of where it's mounted. I actually think the OE method of install might be better because the well nuts act as sort of a "washer" between the plate and the bumper, the way I have it with the self tapping screws just screwed down may be what gives me the TINIEST gap between the top 3 mounts. It was bad at first but I repositioned it a bit and it's almost non existent.
Note that these pictures are literally 6" away from the plate. If standing up or viewing the car any further everything looks perfect. I will add farther back pics when I pull the X out but I'm not going anywhere today and it's freezing out.
Overall I'm happy to have it on my X and feel it's a great standalone piece, I wish I got the OE one when it was available but this will do for 98-99% of the look/quality, thanks for doing this for us Mike.