Is a transparent top worth it?
#1
Melting Slicks
Thread Starter
Is a transparent top worth it?
I was actually looking to have this option when I purchased a vette but mine unfortunately didn't have it. Didn't think much of it at the time because I knew I could add it later. Question is, it's not exactly cheap, is it worth the $? Considering where I live, there is no issue with the sun beating down on me or really high temps - those conditions last for a week or less around here . I just thought the top would add some 'openness' to the cabin when I don't want to drive with it off. Is it noisier in the car with one of these?
#2
Racer
Member Since: Feb 2009
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St. Jude Donor '11
I was actually looking to have this option when I purchased a vette but mine unfortunately didn't have it. Didn't think much of it at the time because I knew I could add it later. Question is, it's not exactly cheap, is it worth the $? Considering where I live, there is no issue with the sun beating down on me or really high temps - those conditions last for a week or less around here . I just thought the top would add some 'openness' to the cabin when I don't want to drive with it off. Is it noisier in the car with one of these?
#3
Too Much Fun
OH YEAH they are sweeeeet!!!! I had one on my last 2 vette's and my 08 did not come with one and I am looking to buy 1, but just can't pull the trigger on $800-$1000 for a clear top for my 08 YET!!!!
#5
Race Director
I knew when I ordered my car that all options I wanted later would be $$$. I love the transparent top and that is what I mostly use. Top Flight Reproduction shades are great for the real hot months.
#6
Le Mans Master
Member Since: Aug 2005
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St. Jude Donor '06
I think it is. I have both tops but only use the clear one. If it's really hot and sunny or I'm going somewhere that it is I take along my DSV removeable headliner. With that combo I have the option of:
1. Top with headliner.
2. Clear top with lots of light (headliner stowed in back).
3. No top.
Besides, I like the look of the car better with the clear (black) top anyway.
1. Top with headliner.
2. Clear top with lots of light (headliner stowed in back).
3. No top.
Besides, I like the look of the car better with the clear (black) top anyway.
#7
Team Owner
Those that have it probably think it was worth it . . .those who don't . . .
I bought mine from another forum member and paid far less that new- and from October to April it's a great feature. In the summer out here, it's like being an ant under a magnifying glass.
I'd think in Upstate NY, you'd have a good 6 months of the year to enjoy it.
I bought mine from another forum member and paid far less that new- and from October to April it's a great feature. In the summer out here, it's like being an ant under a magnifying glass.
I'd think in Upstate NY, you'd have a good 6 months of the year to enjoy it.
Last edited by CQRT; 04-02-2009 at 10:37 PM. Reason: typo
#8
Melting Slicks
Yes it absolutely is! I had both tops with my C5 and do miss it with my current Z. It is a bit noisier than the solid top but the openness more than makes up for the noise IMHO. I enjoyed it 6 months of the year in FL and would have left it in all year if not for the heat from the sun!!
#9
Advanced
It's an absolute must. We have ours on 90% of the time. We only want the solid roof on on the hottest summer days and even then the transparent top does not let in as much heat as you think. As for the sound, it does not let the sound in any more than the solid one. If you are on a budget right now. The transparent one can be bouught without the hardware and you can put the hardware on it from the other roof.
#12
PHOTOSHOP SPECIALIST
You can purchase the GM C6 Transparent Roof
from Gene Culley (GMPartsHouse.com) at this link:
http://www.gmpartshouseusa.com/partl...catalogid=5210
#14
Intermediate
Member Since: Jun 2008
Location: Northeast Texas
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I love the clear top. I live in Texas and leave it in nearly year round. Even in the summer it's not bad as far as the sun. Plus, I just think it looks better on the car. The only time I put the other top on is just for a change of pace (which isn't often). Not sure about the noise difference. Must not be much if I haven't noticed it. One thing I do notice is the weight difference when I put the solid top on.
Last edited by SSN609; 04-02-2009 at 08:50 PM.
#15
Team Owner
If I had a choice between the two I would definitely choose the transparent roof, but to pay the extra bucks for one, I have to pass.
#16
Drifting
I was actually looking to have this option when I purchased a vette but mine unfortunately didn't have it. Didn't think much of it at the time because I knew I could add it later. Question is, it's not exactly cheap, is it worth the $? Considering where I live, there is no issue with the sun beating down on me or really high temps - those conditions last for a week or less around here . I just thought the top would add some 'openness' to the cabin when I don't want to drive with it off. Is it noisier in the car with one of these?
#18
Safety Car
Member Since: Mar 2009
Location: Northeast MA & Mad Beach FL
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When I bought my Vette it came with both tops.
Before I even left the Dealer I had the Clear top put on .
My thoughts:
I really like the openess it creates and the extra light it lets in, but I personally find it hotter and the weather here isn't even hot yet.
Naturally once the AC cools the interior down it's Nice, but still noticed how much heat gets into the interior.
I find it's a lot cooler with the solid top on.
I'm glad I have both tops and will use each one at different times.
The Top Liner sounds like a great item and a lot easier than changing tops
I also liked the look of the car with the Black roof matching the Black in the Back window.
Gives the car a whole different look in a good way
If I didn't have the Clear top, I know I'd wish I had one.
But I would want to try one first to see if I liked it enough to spend the money.
Good Luck with your decision
Before I even left the Dealer I had the Clear top put on .
My thoughts:
I really like the openess it creates and the extra light it lets in, but I personally find it hotter and the weather here isn't even hot yet.
Naturally once the AC cools the interior down it's Nice, but still noticed how much heat gets into the interior.
I find it's a lot cooler with the solid top on.
I'm glad I have both tops and will use each one at different times.
The Top Liner sounds like a great item and a lot easier than changing tops
I also liked the look of the car with the Black roof matching the Black in the Back window.
Gives the car a whole different look in a good way
If I didn't have the Clear top, I know I'd wish I had one.
But I would want to try one first to see if I liked it enough to spend the money.
Good Luck with your decision
#19
Melting Slicks