Beautiful car. Definitely gave me the 'fizz'
As an ex copper, I can tell you that its unlikely you'll be spoken to, solely about the number plate.
Constables would tend to assume that the driver of this type of car plays golf at the same private
club as and is on first name terms with their Chief Constable
That said. Anything that might hinder you being identified in relation to a crime, by traffic cameras
for example, is frowned upon and at least a notional effort is made to manage the number of
non standard plates in circulation.
Here in Northern Ireland, the PSNI (RUC) is usually very quick to speak to a driver with illegal plates.
Given the ongoing terrorism campaign here, its essential that police are able to match a car with a driver/owner
instantly. Think car bombs in stolen cars.
I can tell you, although I experienced many things during my service here, potential car bombs were one thing that
really used to put me on edge. A car parked in an unusual place, or parked oddly. An out of place number plate.
Or anything done to obscure a number plate, would make me very nervous, until I at least saw the driver return, or
was able to ID the driver / owner over the radio.
That may also be why police are being more assertive regarding illegal plates in G.B. Because the terrorist
threat level is unfortunately permanently very high. Okay no terrorist in his right mind will use a Maserati.
But, its the general principle.
So, whilst you may not realise why you're being spoken to about a non-standard plate, the reason could be
very valid. Plus, the constable who speaks to you, may have been instructed to and left to his own devices,
he may not have bothered.
Apologies if I'm stating the obvious