do you need a hardtop on a 2003 boxster

do you need a hardtop on a 2003 boxster

Author
Discussion

rsvr1000

Original Poster:

49 posts

263 months

Tuesday 15th April 2003
quotequote all
i have an 03 boxster and was thinking about buying one for next winter, does the top suffer from any damage during the winter?
I already have a heated rear glass window, is it worth buying the hardtop just for protecting the hood?

McP

2,286 posts

254 months

Tuesday 15th April 2003
quotequote all
I wouldn't bother. I borrowed a hardtop for my MGF years ago and found that when I was out, invariably the sun would come out and I would want the top down (January 98, Portland Bill area being a great memory for me!!).

Due to this, I have not bothered with hardtops for either of my Boxsters. I find the soft top more than adequate during winter / poor weather. Now that the soft top has an extra lining (my 2.5 did not have this) it is better and quieter than ever.

A topical post as I was just having a conversation this morning with a colleague who has a 996 cabrio. Guess what - he finds storing the hard roof difficult even with a double garage!!

Grant3

3,635 posts

256 months

Tuesday 15th April 2003
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I agree with McP the standard boxter roof is very good,
unless you leave it parked outside on the street or in dubious places, would save your cash & put the roof down in mid-January just for the hell of it!!!

jumjum

347 posts

259 months

Tuesday 15th April 2003
quotequote all
Had an 01 now got an 03 never had a hardtop,

The 01's roof was fine after it 20months 20000 miles. The 03's hood is much better.

I put the hood down in winter anyway, this last winter had lots of reasonable days, just put the heated seats on, pop on a hat, heater up and it can be near zero and I am still toasty warm.

A like most extras you don't tend to get your money back on a hard top when you come to sell.

Don

28,377 posts

285 months

Wednesday 16th April 2003
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My 01 Boxster had a Hardtop. My 03 doesn't. With the glass rear window it isn't necessary.

Having said that I *might* buy one (probably not) for next winter IF I can obtain a "bargain" inexpensive one..I am certainly NOT paying full Porsche price for one.

In my experience the hardtop is actually noisier than the soft-top. Its only purpose is added security if you intend to leave the car in the airport car-park for a week whilst you are away.

GregE240

10,857 posts

268 months

Wednesday 16th April 2003
quotequote all
I wouldn't bother if you have a 2003 MY car - its got the HRW us poor plastic peasants were hankering after so what more do you want?

And as The Don says, you'll always leave it on too long so you aren't getting maximum convertible pleasure when the weather turns (looks outside)

Just my 'umble opine.

rsvr1000

Original Poster:

49 posts

263 months

Wednesday 16th April 2003
quotequote all
thanks for all this guys,

i was thinking of getting one from germany where they are much cheaper than here, but it seems like it will last well so i don't think i'll bother.

sunny days are here again