Question: What is the cost estimate on changing a ’72 Impala Custom Coupe(Hard top) into a convertible top?-T.D. Wise
Answer: Thank you for your question! A convertible top conversion is a huge undertaking but companies have been doing it successfully for years. Figure about $15,000 to $20,000 for a professional job.
Additional structural bracing must be added as well so weight will be added. For vehicles designed with a convertible model in mind, the weight difference is negligible. A good example is the Chevrolet Corvette. For others such as the BMW 135i, the convertible is over 300lbs heavier. An aftermarket conversion means you'll feel the chassis flex over bumps and handling will be compromised. This isn't uncommon from factory convertibles as well. Other drawbacks are the value will probably be negatively affected and safety is compromised.
The process is time consuming but there are a couple of companies that have been doing it quite successfully for years with impressive results. Newport Convertible Engineering is one of them. Another is a regular SEMA participant called Drop Top Customs by Convertible Builders LLC.
Good luck and thank you for your question.
____________
Have a question about cars you would like answered? Want to know about performance, racing, modifying, shopping, makes, models, events, etc? Ask me here: AskRobAboutCars@gmail.com and I'll do my best to answer your question and publish it here on Examiner.com!
____________
Have a question about cars you would like answered? Want to know about performance, racing, modifying, shopping, makes, models, events, etc? Ask me here: AskRobAboutCars@gmail.com and I'll do my best to answer your question and publish it here on Examiner.com!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thank you for your interest!
Comments are welcome provided they are ON TOPIC and NO profanity. No rants, please. Contact me for requests.
If you see a correction based on your comment that remains unpublished i.e. "rejected", I want you to know I thank you for the tip.