docsout

Can someone explain why is the push towards soft tops on convertibles?
These are some things I've noted on my soft tops:
1- noisy on inside
2- difficult to keep clean
3- more subject to leaks
4- splitting, cracking, rotting

Wolfman

On the S-Class convertible a hardtop is not possible due to the span, weight and trunk size.
1. It's 3 or 4 layer lined. Not noisy. Not quite coupe territory but close.
2. Not the case
3. Not the case
4. time will tell

I love the hardtop of the SL and disliked the older soft top model SL's which were everything you stated.
Unfortunately, even the next SL (R232) will sport a soft top, primarily to lower weight and emphasize that it is a roadster.

Overall, soft top tech has greatly improved and is viewed as exclusive (works for RR & Bentley)

terrain

Absolutely harder to keep soft top clean when compared to hard top. Can be especially difficult depending on what you get on it.

Streamliner

I'll second that.