I'm thinking about maybe putting a vinyl top on my 72 Nova SS when the time comes. The car will be garaged and kept out of the weather. Number one enemy for a top..Only driven on gorgeous days.
What are your thoughts about adding or replacing one on a classic car? To do or not to do?

Sarge

If original, yes. If not on the build sheet I wouldn't.

If you are keeping it do what you want. If you are ever going to sell I leave it stock wish I still had my 66 Merck cyclone 289 4 speed or my dads 64 corvair convertible not really classics but I would get another stick shift if I could find a good one

Depends on the car color and color of the top. I myself like black. Will make your car warmer in the summer. You will need to get the trim kit (chrome) for your roof installation when the time comes. One of mine 1967 Chevelle Super Sports had a black top over blue - beautiful - had another 1967 Chevelle Super Sport same color blue without the vinyl top. I would choose a vinyl top if you don't mind altering the originality.

If you are going to keep it and no heirs in the family, then do as you wish, other wise you will get it knocked down in price, first thing when ever trying to sell.

It always best to keep them out of the sun as well, however you have that covered, LOL,, only thing I would really do is have it professionally done, you will be much happier with the finish !

If they are factory original, I like them.

Gritguy, if I go that route. Yes, it would professionally done. Not something I'd want to screw up.
It will not be an heirloom. No (family) that are worthy anyhow.
This would be loaded with personal touches. A restomod. But still looking somewhat original. It is a true SS, so I won't butcher it up. Attention to detail in finishes and options. All the chrome that came on those years(68-72).

Sarge

Around here the crow will destroy those tops if left outside for long......jk

You don’t see them often. Restoring this now. Interior is almost done. This took a weekend to get done. Maybe 8 hours in total.

I have two Chevelles. I’d never own one with a vinyl top. Never liked the look.

I like that look. Nice whips!

Mainly decided to go back with the top (and the chamois color) because it’s how the car was from the factory. All matching numbers car. I’m the 2nd owner. 2nd rest job. First one was 90-92 when I was a teenager.

Before anyone calls out the Weld wheels, went back with the factory wheels as well as the repop tires.

Nice cars to all who posted them. Labor of love for sure. At my age. It's all about the memories. My first car was a 72 nova. So, this one will bring back the good memories and not so good. But mostly good.

Sarge

Love it.
Miss the ol vinyl tops.

It’s your car, do as you wish. Personally, I don’t care for vinyl tops.

Chrysler knew how to do vinyl tops, the "first car that you can wear". Marketed to women. Behold the "mod top".

If you have all the moldings ...go for it.

Just prep the roof and paint it...let it cure for a month in the sun...then add vinyl

I had one on my '69 Chevelle a long time ago. I would not add one if it was not original but go for it if you like them. I always treated mine with a conditioner but don't remember what it was

"Dapper Dan" probably.

Just tossing ideas around in my head. Have plenty of time to decide. Stills lots of work to do. Years of work to be exact. Allowing myself 3-5 years to completely restore it. Pay as I go.
Right now buying parts like crazy that will certainly go on it.
Just bought a rear window defogger for it. It was an option but it didn't come with it. Thought it would be neat. Plus I have a tilt column for it out of another nova. So, should be a direct fit.
The original front and rear bumpers will go to be re-chromed. Price is steep -$1200 for both. Repops just aren't the same.
Original doors,fenders will be restored to factory. Using as much Original metal as possible. Only aftermarket when necessary.
Sarge