1997 z3 convertible top replacement. How makes a good one?

[markbritt]

I need to replace my 1997 covert top. I was wondering how makes one as close to original equipment as possible. I would like on that is just as heavy duty as my original. Any help is appreciated.

Mark

[HeliHover]

I assume your referring to who.

If you want one that's rugged and tough like your OE, buy OE

My Z has a non OE top and it's fine. Not sure of the manufacture. I can try and figure it out tomorow if your interested. I think it's nice and it gets the job done.

[Vintage42]

I need to replace my 1997 covert top. I was wondering how makes one as close to original equipment as possible. I would like on that is just as heavy duty as my original...

The following aftermarket tops are OE quality, made of the same fabric (Haartzx Twillfast II). They have sewed-in windows, and cost around $500:
http://www.robbinsautotopco.com/bmw.php
http://www.gahh.com/store.php?cPath=...ts_family_id=1
http://www.autotopsdirect.com/1996-2...04-e37-005.htm
http://www.germanautotops.com/bmw/bm...plastic-window
http://www.topsonline.com/model/Conv...E37_Body).html

An OE top from BMW has a zipped-in window, but costs about $1,500.
Professional installation of any top is in the $700 to $1,000 range.

[328 Power 04]

Can vouch for the Robbins top, it's pretty much perfectly built. Took a day to install though

[rdsledge]

I agree the Robbens Top was an excellent fit look very nice the only thing you need to watch is to follow the directions and install it when the temperature is 75 or better otherwise it's very difficult to try to stretch it across the bow in the rear.

Sent from my iPhone using BF.com

[Vinci]

If you are resigned to paying $700-1000 for install and $500 for an aftermarket top, why not pay $1500 for the proper OE top and install it yourself?

It's not the most fun job, but it is well documented (if I say so myself ).

[Vintage42]

Because, assuming that you are able to install the top yourself, and can accept a sewed-in window that cannot be replaced, an aftermarket top costs $1,000 less than an OE BMW top from the dealer. The aftermarket top will have the same quality.