Fiberglass Question

[Michel73]

This is probably a dumb question :confused but is the fiberglass that GM used on the C3's the same as they used on the C4's? The reason I ask is that I've noticed more C3's with fiberglass problems. Sure, the C3 glass is older and in most cases been through more. But is it the same? Or is the C4 glass a better quality? I've owned a few C3's and really liked them all. But hope to be in the market for a nice little C4 before long

Thanks for the help

 

[C4Tom]

Perhaps just technology has improved on the making of the fiberglass panels.

But, I'd guess it was age more than anything else.

 

[Eric]

I seem to recall reading that there is difference in the makeup of the glass the makes them easier to repair but dunno for sure. However, one big advantage is the way the panels are put together on a C4. The C4 doesn't have any joints that are exposed like the C3 bonding strips that show up all over on agind cars. The joints on the C4 are under the side molding. The joint issue may have been the difference that I recall reading about.

 

[tnovot]

I seem to remember reading somewhere that not only is the material different on the newer cars but also a different technique was used to form the panels but I don't remember any details.
And yes, no exterior bonding strips to join the panels

 

[Edmond]

A question kind of related:

Are the rear quarter panels bolted or glued on for the C4's?