rear window is torn :(

[Overdrive]

Derek,

As far as noise goes, I can't say I miss the original one bit. Also, I'm kind of opposite of many people when it comes to cars and get my audio from the parts that make the car move, which I enjoy much more than any of my favorite bands. The only time I probably wouldn't mind it is once I'm cruising and the car's noises are essentially consistent. Either way, I believe you'll find that when you drive with the top up it'll be much quieter at speed, and if you went with a GAHH even quieter if you get the acoustically superior canvas. Another thing I noticed is that the rain hitting the canvas is quieter than on the old top, too. I never bothered treating the old top with any water repellent, because I planned to change it within the next year, just not that soon. Nature forced my hand about a year ahead of time, unfortunately. It never leaked through the material, so I know it wasn't compromised, just old. But I'll look into those for taking care of this top.

I don't really think your mechanic is going to have much trouble with the glass getting in the way. I haven't had to dig farther into the bay yet, but eventually I will once I start doing any intake modding, so we'll see if I change my tune then. As is, for your typical things it shouldn't be too bad getting to them with the glass top.

I share your reasoning behind the glass, as well. Initially I thought someone had come up and cut my top, so glass was wanted for that reason, as well as simply being easier to maintain and not prone to cracking in the way vinyl would.