boxerz

So I hear that with the windows down to cool yourself with the cold air breeze, the drag on the car causes you to use a bit more gas so it's just like putting your windows up and using the AC. My question is, with the convertible top down, does that help with the aerodynamics and cause less drag so you save more gas/energy?

Also, if you were to race, convertible top up or down for best performance?

NewmanGT

With my top up, I get 24-25MPG... with the top down I get 22-23mpg.

so in short, top down = MORE resistance.

01GTDropTop

With the top down, you'll have all the weight over the rear tires, better traction from a grip.

WyldeSoul

The weight difference is negligable over the rear tires, but there is a massive aerodynamic hit when the top is down, because of the huge turbulence and vacuum bubble created behind the windshield.

I say that if you're doing an 1/8th drag, then top down, because 1/8ths are all about traction, and even that tiny bit of difference over your rear wheels can give you an edge, plus you never get going fast enough for aerodynamics to play much of anything. On a 1/4, Road Course, or an AX, top up. Not only do you get better aerodynamics, but the top up gives you a bit more rigidity.

illini4

Weekend before last I drove my 07 GT vert from Columbus, OH to Detroit for the Dream Cruise. I made the entire trip with the top down (70-75 mph) and averaged 25.5 mpg, the best I have seen to date. With the top up at the same speeds I average around 24 mpg.