Tuesday, February 7, 2012

What are the pros and cons between an old vw beetle and an old vw convertible?

Keeping in mind I live in Australia, and it doesn't snow where I live. I generally only drive to and from work and not long distances.



Thank you!What are the pros and cons between an old vw beetle and an old vw convertible?Mechanically the cars are the same except for, obviously, the roof mechanism and a few mounting elements like the mirror and trim . So here are the other issues



1) The Convertible is rarer and a good rag top in excellent shape will fetch around $15,000 and up in the US. The equivilent hard top bug will top out around $8 to $10k



2) Obviously, the rag top wears out faster and therefore requires more maint. The joints on the frame need lubrication, and the top needs preservative to maintain its flexibility as long as possible.



3) Your high sun rate will accelerate the wear and 'rot' of the cloth/plastic roof and it will also fade your upholstery more if you keep it down.



4) mileage differs. The convertible has more air drag and when you are pushing the bug around with only a 40 or 50 hp engine that drag can add up to a few MPG (or Miles per Liter in your case).



5) Parts... convertible parts are harder to find then those of the bug. They are still readily available but because they are in smaller quantities they are a bit more expensive.



6) The convertible is going to be a lot cooler on those 'not THAT hot ' days. The standard bug is a tin box in the sun and until you get it moving with the wind wings open (which your photo shows), it will be unconfortable.



7) Sunblock.. you won't need it in the standard beetle (grin).



either way.. they are a good choice of cars - especially in a country with large areas of arid land (no water requirements to cool the car).



good luck..



gWhat are the pros and cons between an old vw beetle and an old vw convertible?The differences would be about the same for any other car model. Convertibles are inherently noisy with wind noise creeping in around the top seals. There can also be a case made for convertibles being much more dangerous in a rollover accident. You can make up your own mind about that. Old type VW Beetle converts have been hot collectible items for a long time and are usually expensive to purchase. They also have some unique parts not readily available. Fortunately the convertible's running gear is all the same as the Beetle sedan.What are the pros and cons between an old vw beetle and an old vw convertible?Been there and been inland. Beetle over a convertible hands down (unless you like eating dirt) As many of the roads in the outback are dirt. Severe dust. The seals that they have in the beetles are that tight they keep popping your eardrums when you slam a door shut with the windows closed. If it is that air tight, dirt ain't gonna get in.

No comments:

Post a Comment