May 5: Sunroof vs Convertible

Living in Fort Lauderdale, you get to know something about the sun. You actually become a solar expert of sorts. Nothing to do with flares and sunspots, obviously. But it doesn't take much time in Florida before you learn how long to sit in the sun before spots of a different type appear on your skin. Sunshine is pretty much a constant in our lives in the Sunshine State - even for those who never go to the beach. With this little preamble in mind, then, I turn to the topic du jour. Let's talk about automobiles that let all that sunshine warm you as you roll along our streets. Hey, this is no small subject in our part of the world. Not if you live in South Florida. And not if you're coming to visit South Florida.

You don't absolutely require a car that lets in the rays. I mean, there's not exactly a state law saying all drivers must have an automobile equipped with a sunroof or convertible top. But maybe there should be. What's the point of motoring among swaying palm fronds you can't fully see and sea breezes you can't really smell? Why wait til you get out of the car to enjoy our great sights and sounds ... and sunshine?

I hope you're convinced. Whether you're a resident or tourist, you need a car with some kind of open roof. My last vehicle was a PT Cruiser convertible. My new car is a Mini Cooper with a big sunroof. So I feel qualified to compare and contrast. Convertibles are an experience all their own. A completely open top makes you feel connected to the environment in a way that no sunroof can match. You have the wind full in your face and the sunshine full on your body. You're utterly exposed to everything around you. Sometimes that's good. But sometimes it's not. And this is where the sunroof comes in. A sunroof is a compromise, basically, because you really can have too much of a good thing. The Florida sunlight is so persistent, and often so intense, that you may not want to let all of it into your car. A sunroof allows you to, well, let just some of it into your car. With windows down and sunroof open, you still feel the wind and sunshine. You still see those swaying palm fronds and smell those sea breezes. But you're also protected from some of the sun and wind. It's also much easier to close a sunroof quickly and turn on the a.c. if things warm up beyond comfort levels. In the end, it's a judgment call - sunroof or convertible. They're both great, honestly, and totally worth the extra money to buy or rent when you're in Florida. Sure, there's no law that says you have to get either one. But then you shouldn't need a law to enjoy all the fun in the sun you can find around here.