I haven't been able to find any educated and/or experienced feedback on driving at high speeds in a cabrio, as most of the drag and track set are, understandably, driving coupes.

But assuming a "private road, closed course, don't try this at home" straight-line type of setup, what's the conventional wisdom on top speed in a cab with the top down? There's gotta be some turbulence over the cabin with the top down, but I have no idea of its net effect on downforce.

Any thoughts?

-V

 

I am your huckleberry. Lets just say I am frequently above 150+. Yes you will have turbulence and make sure anything that you want is secure in the cabin cause it will fly out.

 

Hey xcudb are the one that on TigerIllustrated.com, go tigers!

 

But the turbulence makes it fun!

 

I actually don't find the turbulence that significant. I've been at 180+...

 

over 170 in my cab

 

Managed to get to 165 mph with top down, rear screen up along with windows up. Our baseball caps did not move. Done in Germany on Autobahn in May, 2012 at Porsche Treffen by Fast Lane Travel

 

Encouraging responses, all. Thanks!

So it's not like the front end will lift off or anything like that, it seems. But something tells me it can't be as safe (maybe "more dangerous" is more accurate) - from a purely aerodynamic perspective - to do runs like that with the top down. Never mind the reduced torsional rigidity, and the increased likelihood of getting ejected, etc. I'm talking purely aero here.

Is there a negative effect on the car's aerodynamic composure by having the top down, particularly at high speeds?

-V

 

the wind deflector makes a massive difference to the amount of turbulence in the cabin

 

I don't think Porsche would allow a Cabrio to attain top speed if it was unsafe in any way. I had a 996 C2 cab for 7 years prior to the TT Cab and I've gone over 150 many times with top down. I've never really thought about it vs. a coupe. I used to race Superbike with 750 and open class also raced bikes at Bonneville salt. A Cab top down is much more protective than a cycle at speed. Sit up and turn your head at 160+ on a bike and you may loose it.

 

ok folks there's a 2011 turbo s vert pdk for sale in cars gurus for $98k forgot the mileage i think it's black on black?