I was reading through Classic American (British based American car mag) and they had an article about how to reduce fuel consumption (very sore point! $5.40 / US gallon). They mentioned that if you have a pickup, it is best to get a tonneau cover for the bed as the tail "acts like a sail" otherwise and causes unneccessary drag, thus increasing fuel consumption. Also, I know that driving with a window open also causes drag.

My question is, does the same apply when you have the roof down on a vert?

Anyone know?

 

Yes, the top down does create a little more drag, which is why in some mag road tests you'll see a lower top spedd with the topd down than with it up.

Believe me, there's not enough difference in gasoline consumption to worry about, especially when you're driving in the city with stop lights, stop signs, and traffic jams. Remember, at a traffic light with the engine running you are getting 0 mpg.

Don't worry about it. Drop the top and enjoy the ride!