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About to buy a 2015 Z51 3LT. The targa top is translucent which I have no experience with. Any downsides? Too hot in summer?
thanks!
I've had the Transparent top for 2.5 years and use it exclusively. The solid top has been stored since I got the transparent one. I too live in the Atlanta area. Personally, I don't have an issue even in mid-summer when Hotlanta is toasty hot! Thats just me, your mileage may vary!
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I have both tops for my car and use the transparent top 99.9% of the time. Yes, the transparent top will allow more heat inside the car, but if your HVAC system is working well, the car can be very comfortable inside. Plus even with the top on, the view when looking up adds to an open air feeling.
Whew!! In Atlanta you will definitely get your brain cooked without either a shade or a solid roof!! I live in Myrtle Beach, and got a solid roof. I sold the see through one.
The biggest issue with the transparent tops is overhead sunlight shining in behind your sunglasses. A baseball cap blocks the blinding rays and lets you drive comfortably. Yes, the inside of the car can get hotter when the car is sitting but while driving the AC keeps it cool so heat isn't the issue Vs being blinded by the sun.
I’ve had both on previous Vettes. The transparent one is OK, but I kind of preferred the painted top. Was always trying to be very careful not to scratch the transparent one. They also seem to eventually get some crazing in them. Becomes very apparent when viewed from inside. Never had a problem with interior heat while using the transparent one though. But I’m in KY, not some of the hotter locales like Florida or the desert Southwest.
This thread reminds me, it's time to take the transparent top off and put the painted top on. Yeah, the transparent top lets the interior get really hot.
Unless it is damaged, I presume you mean "transparent" top. No downsides for me. I've them on both my C5 and C7. Heat? I live in Louisiana; that's what the a/c is for, no problem.
Unless it is damaged, I presume you mean "transparent" top. No downsides for me. I've them on both my C5 and C7. Heat? I live in Louisiana; that's what the a/c is for, no problem.
Mmm, no I'm pretty sure there are no transparent tops for the C7. Not stock, at least. Definitely translucent.
I bought a transparent roof this spring for my '19 Z06. Very happy with it. The color matched top is in the storage bag since swapping. No issues with increased cabin temps in NJ thus far. The hottest months are coming so will see if I feel a difference.
I loved my transparent top Z51. The only downside was on really hot and sunny days, it can get hotter inside the car vs a non transparent top if its sitting out in the sun. With the AC running its a non issue as the AC has plenty of capability to keep the inside cool. They make a shade that sticks on with suction cups to get you through the summer if its too much for you. 99% of the time I preferred the transparent top.
After using the solid black suction cup shade, I found a self-adhesive dot matrix vinyl shade on eBay and use it during warm months. Much easier to maneuver and store in the car, and once installed, blocks most of the sunlight while giving a bit of open sky feeling.
Off and on availability on eBay, but would be a simple DIY.
About to buy a 2015 Z51 3LT. The targa top is translucent which I have no experience with. Any downsides? Too hot in summer?
thanks!
Do you like the sunshine on your head? I don't. I prefer an opaque top or put a screen on it. I don't look at it while driving and not a fan of any headgear. As mentioned, it transmits more sun in. So how hot it is cannot be adjusted. My neighbor loves the sun. I don't. For her, it is a plus, for me, not so. It really depends on you.
Mmm, no I'm pretty sure there are no transparent tops for the C7. Not stock, at least. Definitely translucent.
the top is definitely tinted transparent, I can see objects through it in detail, if it was translucent there would be light but no detail.....................
The transparent top has a very dark and effective tint on it so there really isn't much of an issue with UV Rays and the sun. And it does a real good job at blocking the heat for the most part. But, it will never block all the sun or heat. Honestly, the best options for the Transparent top are either #1) Have two tops, one transparent and one body color so that you can use the body color one in the summer or #2) If you just have the transparent top, get the sun shade that uses suction cups to attach to the transparent top to block the heat/sun during the hot summer months.
Any other time, the Transparent Top is awesome. Anyone selling one for my 2017 Z06? I miss the transparent top I used to have in my Z51. And I live in South Florida where the sun is BRUTAL during summer and early fall. I know other states get hot, but being closer to the equator definitely makes a difference in the intensity of the sun.
I love mine, it makes top of the car look great and breaks up all the painted surfaces very well. but also got the painted top as well when I bought the car. I havent ever tried the painted one its more of a spare.
I recently purchased a brand new OEM translucent top through Melrose T Tops in Cortland Illinois. Outstanding customer service, shipping, and very happy with the product.
I also purchased from Melrose the suction cup pop in headliner which works great and easy to install/remove ($109). On a hot day the sun can really heat up even though the top is heavily tinted.
My 19 GS came from the factory with the carbon fiber top
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