Handling Differences: Coupe vs Roadster

[casvette]

Can anyone provide me their experience or point me to some research that would differentiate the handling charteristics between an LT4 coupe vs a roadster? I realize there are many things to consider, even in a factory stock configuration: suspension, wheels, and tires, among other things.

I drive a coupe now ('86 Z51, 4+3) and love the way it rides and handles. I'm considering a move to a '96 LT4 CE and while the '96 is even more refined than the '86 in several areas, what will I sacrifice, handling wise, other than more wind in my hair and what some have characterized as "cowl howl", in going to a vert?

BTW, just how noticeable and annoying is the cowl howl? I have no issues with my coupe, driving at reasonable speeds, with the roof removed.

 

[MARLTON LT-4]

"Refinement" is a big understatment. I have owned an '86 conv, '89 coupe and now I own a '94 LT1 coupe and a LT-4 conv. The evolution of the car is VERY noticeable. Smoother, less sqeeks and rattles, and much more powerful. The way that I look at it always go for the best car that you can afford, otherwise you will always be in regret. The CE LT-4 conv is an awesome car that can be picked up for a steal right now. The '96 conv with a LT-4 engine is the best C4 that was evermade. I look at it just like the '67's. Unless you plan to autocross any flex in the body will not affect you. Yes there is some "cowl air" when the top is down but that is what having a conv is all about! The open air feeling cannot be beat when you take your "Sunday car" out after suffering all week in your daily grind. Not to mention resale is much better. Take you time and get the right car of course and you will be VERY happy!!

CP

 

[casvette]

CP:

Since you've enjoyed both a coupe and a convertible, I appreciate your perspective.

Thanks for your input.

 

[MARLTON LT-4]

Since your are in NJ I would invite you to try both but it might get a little cold with the top down! I personally do not think that there is THAT much more wind and noise difference between the a coupe w/ the targa top off and the top down on a conv. Gotta for what ya like!!

CP

 

[Vettelt193]

I've had both too.

I always thought the coupe is far worse for wind noise, and general top down (or off) dynamics.

Wind noise itself doesn't bother me, it's the loud drone at certain times in the coupe that drives me up the wall... it seems to be from the pressure of having the back glass 'trap' air.

 

[jcs44]

I had a 95 LT1 coupe and now have a 96 LT4 vert. Big differences as others have said. Coupe without the top is very loose compared to the vert. The vert has an "X" cross frame underneath that adds stiffness way beyond the coupes. Wind noise goes with the show on either one.

 

[Roadster Guy]

Very little wind buffeting.....

My wife and I are always both pleasantly suprised by the lack of rear wind buffeting with the top down.....it is quite comfortable at a steady 70mph. Our previous TR-6 was much wilder on the hair and so is our friend's Miata with the top down. My buddy's Boxster seems to have more wind turbulance in the cabin area as well.

I think the added X frame on the 96 Convetible plus the additional forward and rear bracing provide quite a bit of extra stiffness as previously mentioned.

One thing to think about, the C4 Vert has less outward visibility (with the top up of course) than the Coupe and for all intents and purposes not much luggage space.......

But, that being said, on a beautiful sunny day out in the Vette with the top down, the LT4 cooking and the country side flashing by on winding back roads.....man....there's no life like it!
RG