Is a convertible faster with the top down?

On the other hand, when Best Motoring did an all-convertible battle, they found that the cars were faster with the tops down (the exception was the Boxster S, which was nearly identical).

Is a convertible more aerodynamic with the top down?

Aerodynamics. Usually, convertibles with their top down are much less aerodynamic than similar cars with permanent roofs. A long, flowing roof smoothes the airflow over the car, resulting in less drag.

Is it better to leave convertible top down?

Do not leave the top down on your car when you are no longer in it. This has not been a good idea since the bird was invented. And birds are not the only animals that might wish to visit the interior of your car. There are also skunks, squirrels, cats, dogs, wild turkeys.

Are convertibles slower than hard tops?

Because the roof is a critical part of a car's structure, convertibles need extra bracing to stiffen their bodies. As a result, they typically are hundreds of pounds heavier and a bit slower than their hardtop counterparts.

Why you shouldn't buy a convertible?

They're more expensive than other cars. Maintenance costs more, too. There's less passenger and cargo space. Convertible tops can leak.

Crash Test Month: Flipping A Convertible

What type of person drives a convertible?

Nearly three-quarters (72 percent) of convertible buyers were older than the age of 45, while 60 percent of new-car buyers on average were 45 years old or older. More than 50 percent of convertible consumers had a bachelor's degree, while only 38.2 percent of new-car buyers on average had a similar level of education.

Can you daily drive a convertible?

Don't worry, the new convertibles are definitely worthy of being daily drivers. For a convertible, they are very quiet with the top up.

What's better hardtop or soft top?

Durability: Hardtops are clearly the more durable option. They're solid and can withstand significant damage that would normally tear through a soft top. That means they'll last longer overall, so you won't have to deal with as much maintenance.

Why do people like soft top convertibles?

Advantages. A key advantage of a soft-top includes lower cost because the fabric is cheaper than metal and the more complex components found in hardtops. If something goes wrong with a soft-top, it's usually easier and cheaper to fix because the mechanical system isn't as intricate.

Do convertibles cost more to insure?

Why do convertibles cost more to insure? A convertible may cost more to insure because of the higher purchase price they carry. In general, vehicles with a high price tag will cost more to repair or replace, so insurers charge more to cover the higher cost of a potential physical damage claim.

Is it safe to drive a convertible on the highway?

Even though they lack a fixed roof, which is what many understand to be an integral part of a car's structure, late-model convertibles are actually no riskier than their roofed counterparts, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which analyzed crash and fatality rates.

Can I run a convertible through a carwash?

Most convertibles are safe for automated car washes, according to the car wash industry. Millions of convertibles are washed successfully every day, and they are designed to do so without causing damage to the vehicle.

Why do people drive convertibles with windows up?

Here's why people drive around with the top down and the windows up: Because it eliminates blowing wind. If you've ever attempted to drive around with a convertible top down and the windows also down, you'll notice that the blowing wind — especially at high speeds — is just massive.

Can you drive a soft-top convertible in the rain?

Roof materials have improved, but not enough to guarantee that water will stay outside. Whether you drive a hard-top or soft-top convertible, heavy rain and snow can still make you susceptible to leaks.

Do you get wet driving a convertible in the rain?

Answer 1: If you stand still in the rain, and it falling straight down, you'll of course get wet. But if you grab an umbrella, then that will block the rain that's falling on you. Driving in a convertible in the rain has a similar effect, where the windshield will act as an umbrella.

What are the disadvantages of convertible cars?

Are convertibles easy to steal?

They are as difficult to steal because of lack of FOB and alarm system that disables the ignition. In addition my convertible has a motion sensor inside the vehicle that will set off the alarm if someone even reaches into the vehicle. That and alarm are set automatically whenever the car is locked.

Should convertibles be garage kept?

Although a garage is ideal, convertibles can also be stored outside. In this case, you need to really consider a water-resistant yet breathable cover, one that is thicker for cars parked outside and a proper, snug fit.

Why did they stop making hardtop convertibles?

One is that hardtops are typically more expensive, both to purchase and to repair, if something breaks. In addition, some motorists do not prefer a hardtop because they believe the car loses its “convertible look.” That is another reason BMW has made the switch.

Can you drive convertible in winter?

Driving a convertible car in the wintertime is possible

While most convertible car owners think that they need to store their cars for the winter, that's not technically true. By taking the proper care and precautions, you can enjoy your convertible car all year round.

Are soft top convertibles cold in winter?

One reason is several convertibles — including the Audi A5 and Infiniti G37 — now offer all-wheel drive, which makes them usable all winter long. Today's convertibles also are far better insulated than predecessors.

Do convertibles hold their value?

They tend to hold their value better than regular vehicles, and they don't seem to age as badly as sedan and coupe versions of the same model do.

How long does a convertible top last?

A properly maintained convertible top lasts an average of 5-7 years. 2. Never put a convertible top down when the temperature is below 60 degrees.

Is driving a convertible fun?

Convertibles are fun.

Driving a convertible is the kind of fun that doesn't rely on speed or handling; even driving a slow convertible can be engaging.