i assume something like this has been discussed, but i couldn't find it.

when you're out and about for the day, do you leave your top down or do you put it up when you park somewhere? i keep everything in the trunk so there's nothing there to really steal. i'm at school right now and have left the top down for the first time, and i can't stop thinking about people messing with it, even though i don't think it'd actually happen. is there any reason for me to worry, have you guys ever had your car messed with when the top was down? i assume overnight it'd be wise to put it up though.

 

Most places I would park my car I'm more worried about bird crap landing on my seats... I keep the top up.

 

For a brief stop, say at a driving range, I keep the top down. The center compartment is locked when you lock the doors, so you can use that for small items.

For longer periods, I would never keep the top down, just simply for the upkeep of the interior. Sun will fade things and it will accumulate dust.

 

scott, you have any pics of your car? i just ordered the same car minus the two tone and haven't been able to find squat for pics!

 

Top up if I am under something or will be inside very long, one "present" will help you decide.

 

I don't have any pics of my car, but here one I found on the web:

Don't mind the filename.

 

Cool. I had tried to create an avatar from that image and failed, but that thumbnail was accepted.

BTW, nice choice!

 

If I'm about an hour or less I'll keep it down, but parked where it is visible.

 

Short duration, top down...but well into view and not under any trees...long periods (over a couple of hours), top up.

 

I drove a Z3 roadster for 10 days a few months ago while the owner was out of town. I would always lock it regardless of top up or down. If I just was making a quick run into Starbucks or somewhere, the top would stay down.

When I had it parked at school or a friend's house, I'd put it up, just for the sake of the extra security and protection from the elements. Besides, what's 20-some seconds between friends?

 

My top is always down (never park under trees)...but if I am going to be away from it for more than an hour I will put the top up. As far as security...top up or down they will get ya regardless.