top color & engine size & negotiating...

[Jason4424]

Does anyone have any insight as to what color rag top they would recommend. I like the way the tan/khaki color tops look more than the black ones, but I've also noticed they seem to show the most wear, dirt and other marks over the years versus darker/black tops. Anyone willing to share their expereiences on this would be most appreciated .

Also, it seems as though most convertible solaras on the lot are SLEs so it makes it difficult to test drive the 4-cylinder. Some say the 4-cyl isn't that bad, others just say, go for the extra power! But that's more money AND more expensive gas!

And lastly, for those of you that had to special order your solara, did that seem to make it more difficult to negotiate a lower price?

THANKS!

[ChiroCop]

I've got the '02 white pearl exterior and black top. The contrast looks great, plus, I wasn't wild about the tan top. Based on what I've seen, the black tops hold up well, just have to be careful not to dry it with a towel after washing. The little white threads will be left all over the top.

As far as the engine, I went for the V6. I wanted the extra "pep" and I'm glad I did. I'd go for the bigger engine. It does cost more and the fuel consumption is slightly higher, but its worth it.

They only make a limited number of these vehicles, so you may not have much of a choice when it comes to the convertible.

Good luck.

[Guest]

Without a doubt, the red with camel top is the hot setup! Btw get the SLEV6 you won't be sorry. The car is hot.

[PhillyGrl]

I have the 4 cylinder 2002 Solara, Pearl white with tan top. I couldn't love it more. And boy, that baby gets a lot of attention, even parked in the parking lot of the shopping center everyone walks by to check it out. I was parked next to a Thunderbird convertible yesterday and both cars got plenty of attention.

[Jason4424]

PhillyGrl,

I assume you bought yours in the Philadelphia area. A dealer just told me today they don't make them in this part of the country (I live outside of DC). Did you have to special order yours or was it something already on the dealer's lot? 4-cylinders works well for you? Thanks.

[ragtopper]

I have the flame red with the camel top. But, if I had to do it over again, I would have gotten the black with black top. A dark interior hides dirt and scuff marks better and the black top shows dirt and wear less than the lighter colors. Downside is that the dark colors attract heat in the summer and the black isn't as eye catching.

[shank]

I got a metallic flame red color and black top, with charcoal interior.
Its just great......the attention I get proves my point..U might wanna consider this an option 2