T-Top vs Hardtop
Super Moderator
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 9,507
From: Okemos, MI
Re: T-Top vs Hardtop
I believe the T-top option adds 12 pounds relative to an equivalent hard top. I suppose it's worth noting that all of those 12 pounds are at the very top of the car, so it has a relatively high impact on the car's overall center of gravity.
Emphasis on "relatively" -- after all, it's less than half of one percent of the car's total weight.
Emphasis on "relatively" -- after all, it's less than half of one percent of the car's total weight.
Registered User
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 640
From: East Granby CT
Re: T-Top vs Hardtop
Probably not a huge weight issue, but the difference is structural integrity....
T-Tops/Convertibles are typically prone to body twist unless they have additional support structure, and then the weight comes into play.
T-Tops/Convertibles are typically prone to body twist unless they have additional support structure, and then the weight comes into play.
Registered User
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 46
From: Columbia, SC/ Middle East
Re: T-Top vs Hardtop
I'm assuming this is drag racing only because of the the thread? Shock tower braces really help either HT or TT on roadcourse. If you are just using the car to race- HT is the way to go. Not sure about the added weight of a TT though. Some 3rdGens have glass or lexan tops. The lexan tops are very light, about 1/3rd the glass top. I have a set of each for my 3rdGen.
I did add sfc's to stiffen the TT body, but went with tubular lca's, torque arm, and smaller torque converter to save weight in the same area as it was added. All depends on what you want to do with the car- if you only race it- then HT, if you DD it and enjoy the sun, then you can do other things to make up for the weight.
I did add sfc's to stiffen the TT body, but went with tubular lca's, torque arm, and smaller torque converter to save weight in the same area as it was added. All depends on what you want to do with the car- if you only race it- then HT, if you DD it and enjoy the sun, then you can do other things to make up for the weight.
Last edited by 68 RS/SS Ragtop; May 7, 2013 at 12:35 PM.
Administrator
Joined: Nov 1998
Posts: 71,097
From: Hell was full so they sent me to NJ
Re: T-Top vs Hardtop
Good reference on option weights, which confirms the TT adds 12.3#:
Camaro Technical Database
By the time you make enough power to make chassis flex a significant issue, you'll be required to install a roll bar. Integrate the roll bar with SFC's and the TT will be rock solid. A buddy took a 30th SS convertible into the low 8's with a 1,350 HP blown 383, and there were never any signs of stress, given the presence of a well-designed, NHRA-certified cage.
Camaro Technical Database
Option weights for 1995 models
The following weights were taken from the 1995 MVMA specs. (All weights in pounds). Thanks to Dave Emanuel (DFE1@aol.com).
Curb Weight Shipping Weight
Camaro coupe 3251 3171
Camaro convertible 3342 3262
Z/28 coupe 3390 3310
Z/28 convertible 3480 3400
Differential Weights of accessories
6-way power seats 7.9
Remote lock control 0.4
Power door locks 1.8
Power Windows 2.7
Remote trunk release 1.3
Rear floor mats 1.8
Body side mouldings 1.8
T-Tops 12.3
Fog Lamps 2.7
Rear defogger 0.4
Air Conditioning w/ V-6 42.3
Air Conditioning w/ LT1 48.9
Sunshades 2.7
Electric sport mirrors 0.4
Cruise Control 4.4
LT1 compared to 3.4 V-6 112.0 (with 6-speed)
LT1 compared to 3.4 V-6 71.8 (with automatic)
3.8L V-6 over 3.4 37.0
Auto Transmission 41.4 (with V-6)
Auto Transmission 84.7 (with LT1)
1LE 7.0
Bose Speakers 7.0
AM/FM w/CD 0.4
The following weights were taken from the 1995 MVMA specs. (All weights in pounds). Thanks to Dave Emanuel (DFE1@aol.com).
Curb Weight Shipping Weight
Camaro coupe 3251 3171
Camaro convertible 3342 3262
Z/28 coupe 3390 3310
Z/28 convertible 3480 3400
Differential Weights of accessories
6-way power seats 7.9
Remote lock control 0.4
Power door locks 1.8
Power Windows 2.7
Remote trunk release 1.3
Rear floor mats 1.8
Body side mouldings 1.8
T-Tops 12.3
Fog Lamps 2.7
Rear defogger 0.4
Air Conditioning w/ V-6 42.3
Air Conditioning w/ LT1 48.9
Sunshades 2.7
Electric sport mirrors 0.4
Cruise Control 4.4
LT1 compared to 3.4 V-6 112.0 (with 6-speed)
LT1 compared to 3.4 V-6 71.8 (with automatic)
3.8L V-6 over 3.4 37.0
Auto Transmission 41.4 (with V-6)
Auto Transmission 84.7 (with LT1)
1LE 7.0
Bose Speakers 7.0
AM/FM w/CD 0.4
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