this is just something i was pondering today - i don't know much about body work, so i figured i'd ask you guys:

if, sometime down the road, i decided i wanted my 03 to have an aluminum roof like an MR, can that be done?

i figured it might be nice to lose the weight from my sunroof and also to save on weight with the aluminum - but at what cost?

really just wondering. thanks.

 

Welding + Bondo ...

Depending on how much bondo/fiberglass is used would determine how much weight you'd be saving ...

 

same as above

 

I would not do that it would lessen the whole cars structure. It's not whorth the $$ for such a small weight reduction 13#'s for a whole lotta cash. Just wait an buy an 05 RS or MR and you'll get the aluminum roof.

 

This has to be the dumbest thing i ever seen posted. Dude Get rid of ur AC compressor, small battery kit , and go with a carbon trunk.Oh and go to the gym to lose some lbs if need be. But replacing a roof LOLOLOL. Thats if ur just wondering.

I sometimes wondering what it would take to make my EVo fly! how about u ?

 

Sometimes, just sometimes....

 

make it a convertible. That's a lot of weight off with wind in your hair driving experience.

 

chop it if you do it.

 

I saw a Porche 911 today that had its roof replaced (and at a reasonable price). the metal roof panel (including the sunroof) was cut out and replaced with a carbon fiber panel. Saved almost 100 lbs off the top of the car. You couldn't tell from the outside at all since it was painted etc, and the carbon fiber panel was made off of the oem roof (using it as a template). Very slick and no loss of rigitity as the frame was not touched.

Ideas are often considered "dumb" by those lacking the imagination or creativity to find an innovative solution.

 

couldnt you just gain it back with a cage?

 

The factory uses rivets to solve the thermo expansion problem with steel and aluminum together.

Just incase someone does something crazy. Probalby cheapest if you get a 05 RS

 

if you did gain the weight back with a cage, at least the weight's center of gravity would be lower than the roof's, so handling would still be improved.

 

huh?

 

you cant just weld aluminum to steel. I believe gtr is right in saying that mitsu instead uses rivets kinda like the aerospace industry does.

 

cool - thanks!