Convertible Top Materials
When it comes to replacing your convertible top, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right material. This choice not only affects the look and feel of your car, but also its durability, longevity, and protection against the elements. The classic debate when it comes to convertible tops is: Cloth or Vinyl? Let’s explore both options to help you make an informed decision.
Best Convertible Top Material: Vinyl vs. Cloth for Indoor and Outdoor Storage
One of the first questions I ask: Is your convertible stored indoors or outside?
Convertibles Stored Indoor
If your convertible is primarily stored in a garage or indoor space, and you’re aiming for a budget-friendly option, vinyl may be a practical choice—especially since it may have been the original material used on your specific model. Vinyl tops are typically more affordable and offer a smooth, glossy finish. Just keep in mind they can crack, fade, or dry out with prolonged exposure to harsh weather.
Convertibles Stored Outside:
Cloth tops are the clear choice for convertibles kept outdoors. Engineered with a rubber core, they provide a sleek matte finish and unmatched protection from UV rays, rain, and wind. The added layer enhances insulation, resists wrinkling, and won’t crack like vinyl. While more expensive, cloth tops offer greater durability and weather resistance—an ideal option for long-term outdoor exposure.
Cloth Convertible Top Options
Stayfast Cloth:
Stayfast cloth is an upgrade, three-ply fabric laminate designed to withstand various climates while maintaining a classic, refined look—making it an excellent choice for vintage or classic cars. It features a woven solution-dyed acrylic topping, a rubber inner layer, and a cotton drill backing.
The grain runs horizontally and is available with a plain black or tan cotton backing. This combination not only provides a smooth, matte finish but also enhances durability, UV resistance, and wrinkle resistance, ensuring the top remains intact and visually appealing over time.
While Stayfast cloth typically costs a few hundred dollars more than vinyl, many convertible owners find the investment worthwhile due to its superior longevity and more sophisticated appearance. If you’re looking for a material that can withstand outdoor exposure while preserving a classic aesthetic, Stayfast is a strong contender.
Twillfast Cloth:
For those asking, “What more can I do to make my convertible top stand out?”—Twillfast can take you there. This upgrade features a tightly woven topping that delivers a smoother, velvety surface and a more refined truer color tone. Compared to Stayfast, Twillfast is thicker and more robust, providing additional insulation, improved acoustic performance, and overall higher end finish.
Twillfast comes in several variations, each offering its own performance characteristics:
Twillfast JX (TF): Features a diagonal grain with a grey cotton backing, adding a unique texture and premium feel.
Twillfast II (SG): Also has a diagonal grain with a black or tan dobby backing. It’s a replica of A5 German canvas and includes a crease-resistant butyl inner layer.
Twillfast (RP): Similar diagonal grain with a black dobby backing, but it’s thicker and softer than Twillfast SG. It also has the stretch of Stayfast, and the black color appears deeper and truer.
A5 German Canvas:
At the top of the range for convertible top cloth materials is the A5 German canvas also marketed as “A5 Sonnenland” commonly used on European convertibles like Porsche 911, Mercedes Benz and BMWs. This fabric has a strong, premium look almost velvet appearance. It features a diagonal grain with a woven in cotton and is the thickest and stiffest option available. While it offers excellent soundproofing for a quieter and more comfortable ride, it has no stretch, which can make installation only possible for certain convertibles.
Another premium option is German Classic (GR), which also has a diagonal grain with a tan or black dobby backing. It’s thicker than Twillfast RP, offering superior durability and insulation, but again with minimal stretch. Both German Classic and A5 are, providing an authentic, high-quality appearance for select convertibles and is manufactured in Germany.
If you’re searching for a convertible top material that combines luxury, durability, and superior acoustic performance, German cloth tops are among the best choices available for OEM convertible top replacements.
Vinyl Convertible Top Options
Cabrio Vinyl
Originally designed for the VW Cabriolet and Rabbit, Cabrio vinyl offers a smooth, sleek appearance that blends well with European convertibles. It’s a durable option that’s great for restoring these iconic models to their original look.
Sailcloth Vinyl
Sailcloth vinyl was a popular option for Mustangs from 1994 to 2004. It has a subtle textured finish and offers a combination of durability and classic styling. This vinyl is very forgiving with wrinkles and is perfect for anyone looking to restore their Mustang to its former glory.
Pinpoint Vinyl
If you’re restoring a vintage convertible and want to stay period-correct, using pinpoint vinyl is authentic for most American cars from the 1950s through the 1980s. As found on this 1966 Ford Falcon convertible top replacement.
British Bison Vinyl
British Bison vinyl is typically found on classic European cars, including MGBs and MG Midgets. With its distinct age leather grain texture, this material stays true to the original aesthetics of these cars, making it a great choice for vintage car enthusiasts.
Chrysler Crush Vinyl
This type of vinyl is a favorite among owners of 1967-1968 Chrysler models, such as the Newport, 300, Fury, and Polara. Chrysler Crush offers a textured, leather grain appearance that matches the original design of these classic vehicles, making it a go-to choice for restoration projects.
Hot Rod Colors for Stayfast Cloth
- Sunflower Yellow
- Logo Red
- Grey
- Bordeaux
- Burgundy
- Pacific Blue
- Persian Green
- Orange
- Concord Grape
- Plum
Final Thoughts
For more information on caring for your convertible top, feel free to explore our additional resources or reach out with any questions!
