Hardtop only question
Thread Starter
8th Gear
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Hardtop only question
Hi, I'm new to the forum and just starting to look for my vintage corvette. My dream one is a 59 or 60 in red or silver and red interior.
I could see wanting to do a road trip in the car. Does that rule out the hardtop only cars I'm seeing? I'm guessing the hardtop doesn't fit in the trunk like the new school ones? Curious if there is anything aftermarket that might be available or am I just better off looking for one with a soft top or both tops?
Thx in advance.
Andy
I could see wanting to do a road trip in the car. Does that rule out the hardtop only cars I'm seeing? I'm guessing the hardtop doesn't fit in the trunk like the new school ones? Curious if there is anything aftermarket that might be available or am I just better off looking for one with a soft top or both tops?
Thx in advance.
Andy
Melting Slicks<br><img src="/forums/images/ranks/3k-4k.gif" border="0">
Joined: Mar 2008
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From: Colorado Springs Colorado
2024 C2 of the Year Finalist - Modified
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The hardtop doesn't store in the vehicle. Its either on the car or in the garage.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2013
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From: Arlington TX
2024 C1 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 Restomod of the Year Finalist
2023 C1 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Most C1's have soft tops, hardtops were optional. Why would you rule out hardtops for road trips? For long trips with possible inclement weather, they're almost mandatory!
Thread Starter
8th Gear
Joined: Jan 2016
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How well do the soft tops seal on the C1's when driving? Enough to protect you from rain?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 5,404
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From: Arlington Tx
St. Jude Donor '08
How tall are you?? Neither the hard or soft top is good for tall drivers.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 5,001
Likes: 1,056
From: Arlington TX
2024 C1 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 Restomod of the Year Finalist
2023 C1 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Hardtops seal better, but most have gaps. You'll drown in a softtop. About the only thing they're good for is keeping the sun off.
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Drifting
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 1,808
Likes: 28
From: CA central coast
I'm an old guy and had 2 near-new Vettes ('61 and '63), both verts, and I don't recall ever having an issue with water leaks. In fact I sometimes got caught in rain with the top down on the '63 and it only became an issue if I didn't maintain about 50mph.
Last edited by waynec; Feb 10, 2016 at 10:57 PM.
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,747
Likes: 192
From: nj
Driving with the rag top up is like driving blind. With one side view mirror and the convertible cave, you will see nothing behind you.
the hardtop gives totally different feel, differnt sound and light, glorious light! Love the hardtop!
Ragtop is for emergencies.
the hardtop gives totally different feel, differnt sound and light, glorious light! Love the hardtop!
Ragtop is for emergencies.
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2009
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From: Canada's capital
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (appearance mods)
C1 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
Mine was a hardtop only car. You get used to getting to your destination and stashing the top if it's a nice day where ever you are. I've even carried it up to a hotel room! Long distance traveling is a LOT more comfortable with the hardtop on. 
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2002
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From: Close to DC
C2 of the Year Finalist - Modified 2020
The responses are trying to tell you in a polite manner these car, C1/C2 can be a real challenge. Comfort and practicality don't meet everyone's expectations and take second place some times. Don't know your location so look in your area for Corvette events and get too know people who own what your interested in. Get some exposure, get a book or two, continue research etc. If you don't have mechanical capabilities, be prepared to spend $$$ for work. Best of luck in your search. 
Dennis
Dennis
Last edited by Bluestripe67; Feb 11, 2016 at 09:12 AM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2011
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From: Middletown Ohio
2016 C1 of Year Finalist
My 62 is a hardtop only car.
They are a lot quieter, dryer and have better visibility when driving. And the car looks much better with the hardtop on.
No regrets after 20+ years.
They are a lot quieter, dryer and have better visibility when driving. And the car looks much better with the hardtop on.
No regrets after 20+ years.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 2,251
Likes: 62
From: Imperial Missouri
You should try to drive a C-1 with hard top, soft top and convertible. The hardtop does offer better weather sealing, visibility, helps with less noise level and has more head room than a soft top. Soft top pretty noisy at 60 mph or more. Top down the visibility is the best and exhaust sound is great. Not sure how the wind turbulents are on the 58-60 but on the 61-62 the duck tail rear end really makes to want to have your hair cut short or have a hat cranked down tight.
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 12,142
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From: Taylor Michigan
