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SOFT TOP CONVERTIBLES

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Old Aug 23, 2016 | 09:59 AM
  #1  
docsout's Avatar
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2023 S Class 2013 SL
SOFT TOP CONVERTIBLES

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
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Old Aug 23, 2016 | 02:58 PM
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Originally Posted by 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
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)
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Old Aug 23, 2016 | 10:56 PM
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Swell -
Absolutely harder to keep soft top clean when compared to hard top. Can be especially difficult depending on what you get on it.
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Old Aug 24, 2016 | 01:18 AM
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Originally Posted by terrain
Absolutely harder to keep soft top clean when compared to hard top. Can be especially difficult depending on what you get on it.
I'll second that.
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