Hardtop conversion

[nate_birner]

So I'm gettin ready to buy my first mr2, and really would prefer a hardtop as i plan on racing it in time attack and autocross. However they are incredibly rare. Is it possible, or has anyone ever converted a t top mr2 into a hard top? Would it even be possible to weld in some aluminum sheet metal and make a hard top? If so, would it even be as rigid as a hardtop? Any suggestions guys?

[328FTW]

Welcome to the board now onto the problem

Possible yes but I wouldn't do it. The T-tops are not floppy and handle good. Plus in a rollover it is surprising how little difference there is usually cause the hardtop moves a lot more than you think when the cars weight is put on it. The difference comes if it slides on its roof but without too much ranting I have seen it done. Here is a step through

Welding in an aluminum sheet is not the way to do it. It is done using 2 cars which is where the problem lies, you really need a hardtop to make a hardtop. You cut the hardtop off at the pillars and carefully cut the other roof in the same place and weld together. Lands up quite strong but is considered a structural change which it is so needs approval to be completely legit but if done really well no one will look twice unless they are switched on and check against the papers.

Also if you did put in sheet over where the glass was the structural gain would be minimal and you would lose a little weight from the glass but is a big effort to do it right and is reaaaaally involved when you get into it. If you are really serious you could have polycarbonate panels made but they would be pricey. I would look for a 91 hardtop they are not that uncommon and if not a sunroof then a T-top. But it is not a huge issue I mean racing is all about the adrenalin and the fun, winning is a bonus. I do track days and I am building up a T-top and it doesn't concern me at all cause the whole weight and rigidity thing loses a little meaning when you see the huge variety in cars and engines at a track day it is all down to what you can do in your car and setting personal bests. Good luck!

[MR2 Drifter]

IF you really wanted to shed some weight from the top, I've seen ppl that make there MR2s into convertables, not only does it look nice but its lighter, you just have to have a good roll cage put in (which you would do anyways if you were planning on racing it)


And hardtops aren't rare, there out there you just have to look for them, its just that more ppl are selling and buying t-tops because there more cooler

[nate_birner]

Originally Posted by 328FTW

Welding in an aluminum sheet is not the way to do it. It is done using 2 cars which is where the problem lies, you really need a hardtop to make a hardtop.

That was my other idea, but if i have a hardtop, why cut it up to turn a ttop into a hardtop, that would be silly

I think i will just take my time and wait for a hardtop. Personally I like the way hardtops look better on top of the added rigidity, however minimal it may be. Thanks for your thoughts guys!