Up or Down?

[Jared]

At the track, have you seen that you time is better, worse, or unchanged by the top being up or down?

Just curious, I have a big race coming up, and I have never taken my vert to the track before. My car is actually a few mods up on him (and a M6), but his car is a A4, and he has track experience..

Anyways, I dont wanna take any chances. I cant lose. I know that the launch and shifting is MOST important, but, since I wanna pin EVERY detail, whats the scoop on the top position. Thanks..

-Jared

[BradL]

I'm not sure but I don't think track officials will let you race with the top down.

edit: Nevermind I guess they do

[MaverickWH]

I've always been consistently 1-2 tenths quicker with the top down, but I've only ran with street tires, so I'm guessing the extra weight of the top in the back makes a little difference. Who knows for sure.

[Jared]

Interesting..

[Ed Blown Vert]

I race with my top down in the 1/8. Don't think we get fast enough for it to matter.

[jimmyblue]

My "local" (50+ miles) track required me put it up :mad:
If I can't be fast, at least I want to look good going slow.

[Chief Pontiac]

Well both tracks in my area,Milan and Ubly,say that if I run faster than 13.49 I have to have a roll cage or roll bar.:( But I was told they really dont enforce it.

[XTrooper]

1. I've never been to a drag strip that let convertibles run with the top down. This is totally opposed to the safety concerns regarding flying debris which is why cars are required to have their windows up or have window netting. I'm surprised any legitimate track allows it. Hell, I can't even make more than a run or two without being booted because an approved rollbar is required in 'verts if you run 13.99 or faster. :cry:

2. All else being equal, the increased wind resistance encountered with the top down will adversely affect your performance.