carbon fiber vrs sunroof

dawgdog · 03-26-2008, 08:02 AM

I'm not a huge fan of the carbon fiber roof look, and I do like sunroofs. With the windows down and the sunroof open my car becomes a quasi convertible. With the sunroof barely open I can hear my engine with no wind issues.

I guess the wt. difference is approx. 40#. Since I also want DCT my car with a sunroof and DCT would be + 80#.

Anyone else grappling with this issue?

aks753 · 03-26-2008, 08:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dawgdog

I'm not a huge fan of the carbon fiber roof look, and I do like sunroofs. With the windows down and the sunroof open my car becomes a quasi convertible. With the sunroof barely open I can hear my engine with no wind issues.

I guess the wt. difference is approx. 40#. Since I also want DCT my car with a sunroof and DCT would be + 80#.

Anyone else grappling with this issue?

I didn't get DCT but struggled to decide on sunroof vs CF. I decided to go with the sunroof for the same reason that you stated, I like to have it open when the weather is good.

dangoma · 03-26-2008, 08:20 AM

I ordered with both. California mandates a sunroof, although I really wanted the CF, I am slightly claustrophobic and need that window in the ceiling.

Zirenz2006 · 03-26-2008, 08:22 AM

I was on the fence but once I went to my dealer and saw the CF roof in person, I was sold. I don't think the weight savings will be a big factor for me. I won't be taking the car to the track. The look was the selling point for me, especially against Alpine White which I will be getting. It is one more thing that really sets the car apart from a regular 3 series.

I also thought about how often I really use my sunroof. It is mainly at night in the summer or a day that is around 75 degrees with little humidity which in Rhode Island is not often. Once we get into the dog days of summer, it gets well into the 80's sometimes 90's and humid. That is not good sunroof weather for me. I don't like sitting in my car sweating.

Long story short, I don't think I will miss the sunroof but I will find out.

brupaul22 · 03-26-2008, 08:22 AM

What color are you getting the car in? To me that has a baring on whether u go with CF or Sunroof. If your getting AW, Silverstone or Space Grey then in my opinion the CF roof is a no brainer. It makes the car unique, not to mention its weighs a little less.

Zirenz2006 · 03-26-2008, 08:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dangoma

I ordered with both. California mandates a sunroof, although I really wanted the CF, I am slightly claustrophobic and need that window in the ceiling.

How can you order both? California mandates a sunroof? Am I missing something?

darkalley · 03-26-2008, 08:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zirenz2006

I was on the fence but once I went to my dealer and saw the CF roof in person, I was sold. I don't think the weight savings will be a big factor for me. I won't be taking the car to the track. The look was the selling point for me, especially against Alpine White which I will be getting. It is one more thing that really sets the car apart from a regular 3 series.

I also thought about how often I really use my sunroof. It is mainly at night in the summer or a day that is around 75 degrees with little humidity which in Rhode Island is not often. Once we get into the dog days of summer, it gets well into the 80's sometimes 90's and humid. That is not good sunroof weather for me. I don't like sitting in my car sweating.

Long story short, I don't think I will miss the sunroof but I will find out.

You and I think alike. I'm sure I will miss the sunroof at points but the CF is what makes this car special.

dangoma · 03-26-2008, 08:34 AM

Zirenz - He asked about DCT and CF.
I ordered both. As for California mandating a sunroof, um clearly you can't read. I said I am in california and its a must since the weather is amazing.

mhutchins14 · 03-26-2008, 08:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zirenz2006

How can you order both? California mandates a sunroof? Am I missing something?

I think he was referring to "both" as CF roof and DCT.

gblansten · 03-26-2008, 08:36 AM

I'm not grappling with it. While I like the look of the carbon fiber my present car is a convertible and I don't want to be in closed off coupe. The sunroof is essential. I have always made use of the sunroof in my other cars. I'm also getting JzB or JB so the carbon fiber isn't a big deal aesthetically.

dangoma · 03-26-2008, 08:40 AM

I agree with above. Color makes a huge difference. I got Sparkling Graphite so the CF roof would disappear - depending on your color the CF roof will make a difference.

RandyB · 03-26-2008, 09:13 AM

No grappling here - going with a lightweight flyer! Relatively speaking, of course. CF + 6MT.

Zirenz2006 · 03-26-2008, 09:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dangoma

Zirenz - He asked about DCT and CF.
I ordered both. As for California mandating a sunroof, um clearly you can't read. I said I am in california and its a must since the weather is amazing.

Um..Actually I can read, I just misunderstood what you meant.

Gearhead999s · 03-26-2008, 09:39 AM

I went the sunroof route.I like having a brighter car inside especially in our dreary winters.The Carbon -fibre roof does not make this car a 40lb weight difference on a 3700 lb vehicle is not even worth worrying about in the real world and yes I will be tracking mine.The roof is far from being the defining feature on this car as there is so much other stuff that makes it so special.

JEllis · 03-26-2008, 12:03 PM

Get 18's over the 19" wheel option. They save about 4lbs per corner of unsprung weight. The equates to close to 80lbs of sprung weight.

I have said before that going for the performance oriented options like 18's, cloth seats, DCT, and CF roof will perceivably alter the performance output of the new M3. There will surely be faster and slower M3's on the road when they meet at stop lights or at a track day.

Jason

M3Kevin · 03-26-2008, 12:47 PM

I would not call myself a master driver - but I do know that when I show up at carting traks across the country where they measure your track speeds against the 40,000 other drivers who have raced there, I consistently, withing 2 or 3 runs rank in the top 97%. So I'd say I am decent at driving carts. I hope that translates a bit into cars.

Anyway - I digress.

I am not sure how much lbs are saved with the sunroof route vs the CF roof route. But I would argue the following (just as was argued in the 997 GT3 forums regarding the forced Sunroof)

If you are fast enough to notice the difference between a non-sun roof car, and a sun roof car - you are in the league of drivers who'd benefit MUCH more by removing the passenger seat - removing insulation, removing the radio and speakers and other such items from the car as well.

If the difference in speed with our without a sunroof is THAT important to you - I'd argue that you need to seriously consider removing the above items, and any other non essentials from the car as well.

So - my take on it is as follows - get what looks good to you and what you will use. I know that here in AZ, I was driving around last night in 80 degree weather, with the sun roof open and enjoying the breeze and the crystal clear skys looking up towards the stars.

Just my .02 on the who weight issue of a sunroof.

Kevin

M3Kevin · 03-26-2008, 12:49 PM

p.s. - Plus since I have a sunroof - I have to defend the fact that I made the "obvious" choice!

MTrizzy · 03-26-2008, 12:57 PM

Agree with M3Kevin...if you are that worried about 40lbs you should also be dieting...Go with what looks best you.

par4bmw · 03-26-2008, 01:22 PM

As the opposite of the OP, I love the look of the CF on light colors. The AW, SSII and others look so sweet and unique with the CF. For the last 20 years, I have always had a sunroof. The top is off on my Jeep >80%. So my debate is

vs sun & fresh air.

For the OP, go with the sunroof since you do not like the looks of CF. I would only worry about the weight if you are trying to build a great track car. And if that is your goal, you are in for a long journey of lightening your wallet.

Los Angeles · 03-26-2008, 02:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gblansten

I'm not grappling with it. While I like the look of the carbon fiber my present car is a convertible and I don't want to be in closed off coupe. The sunroof is essential. I have always made use of the sunroof in my other cars. I'm also getting JzB or JB so the carbon fiber isn't a big deal aesthetically.

+1,0000!!!

goldminer · 03-26-2008, 02:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dawgdog

I'm not a huge fan of the carbon fiber roof look, and I do like sunroofs. With the windows down and the sunroof open my car becomes a quasi convertible. With the sunroof barely open I can hear my engine with no wind issues.

I guess the wt. difference is approx. 40#. Since I also want DCT my car with a sunroof and DCT would be + 80#.

Anyone else grappling with this issue?

I will go with the CF roof because I have to have the extra head-room it gives. If you don't like the CF look go out and have it painted. I have never like sunroofs but that is just me.

As for weight I read in the BMW press release that M-DKG was 5 kg lighter. I have just checked it and suspect a misprint as only the coupe is shown to be 5 kg lighter and only in the DIN standard. The EUR standard shows 20 kg heavier as is the sedan and convertible.

Saturn · 03-26-2008, 02:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by M3Kevin

If you are fast enough to notice the difference between a non-sun roof car, and a sun roof car - you are in the league of drivers who'd benefit MUCH more by removing the passenger seat - removing insulation, removing the radio and speakers and other such items from the car as well.

If the difference in speed with our without a sunroof is THAT important to you - I'd argue that you need to seriously consider removing the above items, and any other non essentials from the car as well.

+1

And, from a pure visceral driving experience point of view, driving with the roof open just makes me happy.

~Mike

03-26-2008, 08:02 AM	#1
dawgdog Colonel 148 Rep 2,278 Posts Drives: 2015 M3, 2016 GT3 Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Seattle, Wa. iTrader: (0)	carbon fiber vrs sunroof I'm not a huge fan of the carbon fiber roof look, and I do like sunroofs. With the windows down and the sunroof open my car becomes a quasi convertible. With the sunroof barely open I can hear my engine with no wind issues. I guess the wt. difference is approx. 40#. Since I also want DCT my car with a sunroof and DCT would be + 80#. Anyone else grappling with this issue? __________________ 2015 f80 M3, 2016 GT3
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03-26-2008, 08:20 AM	#3
dangoma Your Mom 13 Rep 234 Posts Drives: 2008 M3 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Danville, CA iTrader: (0)	I ordered with both. California mandates a sunroof, although I really wanted the CF, I am slightly claustrophobic and need that window in the ceiling.
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03-26-2008, 08:22 AM	#4
Zirenz2006 Brigadier General 1536 Rep 4,558 Posts Drives: G80 M3 Comp IOMG Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: US - NE iTrader: (0)	I was on the fence but once I went to my dealer and saw the CF roof in person, I was sold. I don't think the weight savings will be a big factor for me. I won't be taking the car to the track. The look was the selling point for me, especially against Alpine White which I will be getting. It is one more thing that really sets the car apart from a regular 3 series. I also thought about how often I really use my sunroof. It is mainly at night in the summer or a day that is around 75 degrees with little humidity which in Rhode Island is not often. Once we get into the dog days of summer, it gets well into the 80's sometimes 90's and humid. That is not good sunroof weather for me. I don't like sitting in my car sweating. Long story short, I don't think I will miss the sunroof but I will find out.
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03-26-2008, 08:22 AM	#5
brupaul22 brupaul22 13 Rep 42 Posts Drives: 2004 white infiniti g35 coupe Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: new york iTrader: (0)	What color are you getting the car in? To me that has a baring on whether u go with CF or Sunroof. If your getting AW, Silverstone or Space Grey then in my opinion the CF roof is a no brainer. It makes the car unique, not to mention its weighs a little less.
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03-26-2008, 08:34 AM	#8
dangoma Your Mom 13 Rep 234 Posts Drives: 2008 M3 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Danville, CA iTrader: (0)	Zirenz - He asked about DCT and CF. I ordered both. As for California mandating a sunroof, um clearly you can't read. I said I am in california and its a must since the weather is amazing.
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03-26-2008, 08:36 AM	#10
gblansten Brigadier General 1977 Rep 4,220 Posts Drives: 23 Tesla S Plaid Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Thick ascending limb iTrader: (0)	I'm not grappling with it. While I like the look of the carbon fiber my present car is a convertible and I don't want to be in closed off coupe. The sunroof is essential. I have always made use of the sunroof in my other cars. I'm also getting JzB or JB so the carbon fiber isn't a big deal aesthetically.
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03-26-2008, 08:40 AM	#11
dangoma Your Mom 13 Rep 234 Posts Drives: 2008 M3 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Danville, CA iTrader: (0)	I agree with above. Color makes a huge difference. I got Sparkling Graphite so the CF roof would disappear - depending on your color the CF roof will make a difference.
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03-26-2008, 09:13 AM	#12
RandyB Lieutenant Colonel 20 Rep 1,504 Posts Drives: '03 330i, '09 M3 Coupe Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Texas iTrader: (0)	No grappling here - going with a lightweight flyer! Relatively speaking, of course. CF + 6MT.
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03-26-2008, 09:39 AM	#14
Gearhead999s Major General 815 Rep 7,887 Posts Drives: RR Velar R=Dynamic M2C R1200GS Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Toronto iTrader: (0)	I went the sunroof route.I like having a brighter car inside especially in our dreary winters.The Carbon -fibre roof does not make this car a 40lb weight difference on a 3700 lb vehicle is not even worth worrying about in the real world and yes I will be tracking mine.The roof is far from being the defining feature on this car as there is so much other stuff that makes it so special.
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03-26-2008, 12:03 PM	#15
JEllis Major General 532 Rep 5,498 Posts Drives: E36 M3, E92 M3 Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Dallas/Ft. Worth iTrader: (4)	Get 18's over the 19" wheel option. They save about 4lbs per corner of unsprung weight. The equates to close to 80lbs of sprung weight. I have said before that going for the performance oriented options like 18's, cloth seats, DCT, and CF roof will perceivably alter the performance output of the new M3. There will surely be faster and slower M3's on the road when they meet at stop lights or at a track day. Jason __________________ Instagram: jellismotorwerks
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03-26-2008, 12:47 PM	#16
M3Kevin Private First Class 17 Rep 128 Posts Drives: Alpine White 2008 M3 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Phoenix AZ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2004 Corvette Z06 [0.00] 2004 GT3 [0.00] 2008 M3 [0.00]	I would not call myself a master driver - but I do know that when I show up at carting traks across the country where they measure your track speeds against the 40,000 other drivers who have raced there, I consistently, withing 2 or 3 runs rank in the top 97%. So I'd say I am decent at driving carts. I hope that translates a bit into cars. Anyway - I digress. I am not sure how much lbs are saved with the sunroof route vs the CF roof route. But I would argue the following (just as was argued in the 997 GT3 forums regarding the forced Sunroof) If you are fast enough to notice the difference between a non-sun roof car, and a sun roof car - you are in the league of drivers who'd benefit MUCH more by removing the passenger seat - removing insulation, removing the radio and speakers and other such items from the car as well. If the difference in speed with our without a sunroof is THAT important to you - I'd argue that you need to seriously consider removing the above items, and any other non essentials from the car as well. So - my take on it is as follows - get what looks good to you and what you will use. I know that here in AZ, I was driving around last night in 80 degree weather, with the sun roof open and enjoying the breeze and the crystal clear skys looking up towards the stars. Just my .02 on the who weight issue of a sunroof. Kevin
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03-26-2008, 12:49 PM	#17
M3Kevin Private First Class 17 Rep 128 Posts Drives: Alpine White 2008 M3 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Phoenix AZ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2004 Corvette Z06 [0.00] 2004 GT3 [0.00] 2008 M3 [0.00]	p.s. - Plus since I have a sunroof - I have to defend the fact that I made the "obvious" choice!
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03-26-2008, 12:57 PM	#18
MTrizzy Lieutenant 28 Rep 449 Posts Drives: 2008 AW M3 Coupe Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Potomac, MD iTrader: (1)	Agree with M3Kevin...if you are that worried about 40lbs you should also be dieting...Go with what looks best you. __________________ AW E92 M3\|E92 LuX\|Piaa GTX H3\| Rear Fog Light Mod \| Ventureshield (Raja) \|Eisenmann Race Exhaust \|Macht Schnell Filter \| Black Grills \| Black Sides \| H&R Springs \| Fabspeed X-Pipe & High Flow Cats\| CF VRS II rep diffuser\|Most powerful Scoops in the world\|
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03-26-2008, 01:22 PM	#19
par4bmw Lieutenant 12 Rep 494 Posts Drives: 370Z & My JK Toy Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Scottsdale iTrader: (0)	As the opposite of the OP, I love the look of the CF on light colors. The AW, SSII and others look so sweet and unique with the CF. For the last 20 years, I have always had a sunroof. The top is off on my Jeep >80%. So my debate is vs sun & fresh air. For the OP, go with the sunroof since you do not like the looks of CF. I would only worry about the weight if you are trying to build a great track car. And if that is your goal, you are in for a long journey of lightening your wallet.
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