I tried to make this a poll but it kicked my butt?

Anyhow, I read an article on Autoweek about a company called Smoothline that makes a removable hardtop for 99-04 Mustang Convertibles. One of my struggles with buying a convertible was that I really liked the look of the hardtop. The other negative to convertible ownership is that they are noisy with the top up and the wear and tear on the top during the winter months (unless you park the car) when it is up and you really don't want it down. However, it is so awesome to tool around with the top down in the summer. I would consider one.

Here is the website link

http://smoothline.com/contemporary_m...rd_Mustang.php

 

Some additional pictures, including the rear window, which looks kind of small.

 

The 05/06 is *not* noisy with the top up. The front 1/3 (part before the first fold) of the top has a hard backing and cuts down on typical vert noise.

If I lived in a colder climate and someone designed a hardtop that looked very close to what the coupe looks like, it could be a possibility.

 

I received a reply to my e-mail inquiry to Smoothline about a hardtop for the 05 Convertible. Here is there reply:


Thanks for your inquiry regarding a removable Hardtop for the 05 Mustang Convertible. We are in development currently on a totally unique design which will look similar to the coupe roofline with the side quarter windows. The prototype is being refined and it will be an awesome addition to the new Mustang design.

We are also working on some new interior upgrade options for those who want to enhance the custom look in the cockpit.

Prices are not yet available but we are targeting production for early 2006.

This is something I am seriously considering. As you know, we have four seasons in Wisconsin.... Winter, June, July and August

 

If it's anything like the targa tops you see on Vettes, I'd definitely consider one. I love the way the look, plus you get the vert experience with the coupe looks and performance.

 

Double post.

 

It would depend on looks and price. I don't think the '05 soft top needs much improvement due to noise, etc, but a hardtop might be nice for winter use

 

Winter use especially. I see a lot of convertibles that the bodies look great but the wear and tear of daily winter driving and the weight of a 12 inch snowfall tears up the tops. I haven't driven an 05 vert with the top up yet, but I knw my 99 GT and my Miata were pretty noisy with the top up. I hear the 05 is better in this regard, but it still can't be as quiet as a hardtop. Plus, the hardtop looks so sweet compared to the convertible with the top up.
I never drove my Stang in the winter, but it is possible the 05 could end up being my daily driver, so a hardtop would be a viable option in the harsh Wisconsin winter.

 

Looks like $2,600, unpainted, for the "Daytona R" version ('94-'04). At least from the only place I could find a price.

Could be an interesting addition if it looks good on the '05+