As long as the spats are in front of wheels and not sticking out in the airflow they would not increase the frontal area. They do reshape it, I would try to have them as close as possible too the wheel to try to eliminate the low pressure zone the spat would create behind it,caused by high speed air rushing over the top of the spat.
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If your going to build them close to the tire I would make it out of long broom bristles. This has several advantages. They aren't solid so if they hit something they won't break. If they rub on the tire they will wear instead of the tire. If a cop pulls you over for them they can be trimmed on the spot to comply with what ever they say is the law.
This is what I put on my Civic.
Made of conveyor belt and can handle occasionally being dragged on pavement.
Put a black sharpie on those rivet heads! Makes 'em disappear...and you'll pass the "can't see it from the grand stands" test every time. Though you'll occasionally have to reapply.
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