Fits the 1996-2002 Z3 and M Roadster
HAARTZ STAYFAST CLOTH WITH SEWN-IN PLASTIC WINDOW
This is not the original material for the BMW Z3 and M Roadster, but it is a good alternative and widely used on American and Japanese convertibles. Like the original, it is a three-ply composite and a premium quality product. The key differences are that the exterior is a square weave instead of a twill weave and the inside is a plain cotton lining instead of the dobby (criss-cross) lining.
WINDOW
Includes a new plastic window with a very slight tint similar to the original. The window is sewn into the convertible top for strength and durability. Finish trim piping is included around the outer frame of the window as shown in the above image.
FABRIC
Manufactured using first quality American Stayfast cloth/canvas with a plain inner lining. The canvas topping is a three-ply composite made of a square weave outer fabric, a rubber inner layer and a cotton lining fabric. Want to learn more? Click here to go to the BMW supplier’s site, Haartz, to learn more about the material used in this convertible top.
TECHNICAL REDESIGN
This convertible top incorporates the 1998 BMW technical redesign to address some deficiencies in earlier models. The three improvements include:
(1) adding relief pockets in the quarter panels,
(2) adding a stiffener inside above the window, and
(3) adding elastic straps above window to support the tension straps.
These improvements fit all model years of the Z3 and M Roadster.
The top fit perfect and looks great!
Great product. Good documentation.
The right side of the top behind the passenger window did not fit well after complete installation. My installer thought it might tighten up after exposure to the weather. Two days later, a small protusion (elongated bump)about one-and-a-quarter-inch in length appeared on the exterior of the top about three inches above the curvature of the rear window. A check inside the top showed that is the location of the strap on that side. My installer confirmed the end of the strap was causing the protrusion. As of (12/08/2012) a slight protrusion at the same position on the opposite side of the top began to appear. My installer has stated to me that cannot correct the problem. Please address this problem and if you have any solution for a correction of it. Other than that, I am pleased with the top, but would be hesitant to recommend it to another person due to above stated issue.
Top was perfect color. You call it Burgandy but BMW call’s it Imola Red.
Had professionally installed and he said it went on with no problem
This is the second top we have purchased from auto tops Direct and both were great.
THANK YOU BOB Ziegler, Florida Suncoast Chapter BMW CCA President