Hard Top Question

[CHASP]

Hey Guys
I have a 1999 Boxster and thinking about getting a Hard Top for it. Can someone please tell me if the Hard Top Improves anything? Every single detailed point would be great as I would like to know if its worth getting or not.

Does it improve handerling at all?
Does it rattle like the soft top does when you hit bumps or does it sit just like a normal non convertable car would.

Everything on this would be great

Thanks in advace

CHASP

[70Sixter]

Hard top seems to tighten car and reduce cowl shake to near none. Probably improves handing slightly for this reason. My calibrated butt really cannot measure any difference.

Mine does not rattle, but neither does my rag top. Interior noise is reduced.

I personally like the look, also. You will need to think about a place to store it. I think you would like the top.

[Jeph]

Instead of addressing in every single detail point about the hardtop, it might be easier for you to tell us your reasons for wanting one. And even so, it's your call on whether or not it's worth it.

I've had my hardtop for over a year now on my 2000. I like it a lot! The only thing it improves are a) the looks (subjective) and b) resale value. I got mine because the convertible season where I live is short (too hot in the summer, too cold in the winter).

[CHASP]

My reasons for a Hard Top would be the following, if someone could tell me if the hard top does or does not do what is listed.

1. Make the car feel more solid

2. Less Noise

3. Less Rattles, when the soft top is up it tends to rattle now and then when hitting a bump.

4. Makes the car more ridged.

Thanks

CHASP

[Uncle Bob]

My reasons would be:
1) Snow
2) Wind
3) Rain
4) Security
I understand from local dealer where I purchased car that there are some available as when traded in no bonus is given for top. Hard to believe, but true!

[limoncello]

Your driving pattern could be a factor, in addition to the climate factors already mentioned; a daily driver in a harsher climate might benefit significantly from the hardtop. Sunday afternoon driver in southern Cal: hardtop not required. Track junkie - hardtop nice to have, since it improves aero flow and also can get you around some roll bar issues for taller people (for DE).

[docdyh]

how difficult to install and remove. Do you need sometype of hoist or can one person put on by self? Sorry, for changing the question.....

[spgribben007]

Installing or removing the hard top requires a hoist or another person not because of the weight but because of the bulkiness. I get my 13 year old son to help me place it on top then I do all of the latching.

To me the hard top gives the driver a choice of styling but I haven't really notice any difference in handling. I got the windows tinted mainly because of the hard top and the results are deffinitely a head turner.

[Onad]

I've been trying to get a hardtop for my Artic Silver for about 9 months, but the prices locally have been well above what I would like to pay. I've found some in the $750 range, but they are always more than 300 miles away. Do you think I'll have any better luck in the spring? If anyone sees anything please let me know.

My strategy has been to look on ebay, craigslist, search dealer lots, and reach out to people who are selling their cars with hardtops. In short, I've had no luck. As someone mentioned, cars with hardtops typically don't sell for more than ones without them, so I'm surprised few people consider outside straight cash offers for their hardtop. Anything else I should be doing, or should I just be patient?

[Jeph]

Originally Posted by CHASP

1. Make the car feel more solid
2. Less Noise
3. Less Rattles, when the soft top is up it tends to rattle now and then when hitting a bump.
4. Makes the car more ridged.

1. I don't think so, but that may be a perspective thing.
2. Slightly - tires seem to make the bigger difference there. It's feels more enclosed and cabin-esque.
3. As mentioned before, it creeks (depending on the outside temprature & how tight you've got it). I think that can be remedied with some silicon lubricant, so I've read on this board.
4. Doubtful.

To Onad, if you can find a hardtop for $750, it might be worth the drive depending on the condition. That's pretty cheap for a top. Buying a top from some one selling their Boxster may be slightly inconvenient because you'd need their spinlocks. Removing those would be tricky unless that seller is comfortable with you bringing tools and going to town on their car.

To spgribben007, one of my reasons for the hardtop was tinted windows. You're right, it looks pretty darn cool. (especially if you go uber dark)