Iceman

Just wondering if the hartop would reduce noise levels significantly while cruising on the freeway. Any inputs would be appreciated.

rstark

Absolutely! Almost as quiet as a regular non-convertible car.

RacerX

Well, where's the fun in that?

AnDy_PaNdY

Does it reduce the engine noise, if so I'll not be getting one

lvs2k

Get a Lexus!

rstark

You can still hear the engine just fine. It's the road noise that's reduced.

Barry in Wyoming

Yes, but....

At least two of us have some driver's side wind noise with the hardtop. It is still much more quiet than without the hardtop.

1Y2KS2K

No it doesn't - it AMPLIFIES the engine noise. I suppose that now you've heard that, Andy, you'll be getting a hardtop then?

The hardtop actually gives you a completely different driving experience. When you're driving top down, the most prominent sound typically comes from the exhaust, (with very little engine, except during VTEC), and you probably find yourself shifting gears according to the exhaust tone and pitch. On the other hand, with the hardtop on, the exact opposite happens - you hear nothing from the exhaust (absolutely zero); only engine noise. As a result, while you're cruising along, you'll just hear a steady purr from the engine. This isn't loud enough to interfer with normal conversation; however, as soon as you start revving or VTECing, that's when you really begin to hear the engine, and it becomes fairly difficult to hear anything else. It sounds really, really loud - which should suit just about anyone who prefers listening to the engine singing along.

Believe me, if you get a chance, ask for a ride with anyone who has the hardtop, and you'll be amazed at the difference. It's like night and day. Maybe someone else can confirm if they've experienced the same thing.

Takashi KazuMori

I feel, wind noise still exists ... But it's quite insulated from the weather outside. Never used the soft-top ever so I don't know any difference in comparisons. But the best thing is the cabin sound filled with the VTEC sound when you put you feet down on the throttle. Handling of the car feels better, maybe it's much stiffer or stronger and the only downside is probably the weight and the trouble of needing 2 people to get it on or off the car.