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The History of Automotive Vinyl Roofs

Early Applications

The earliest use of vinyl on automobile roofs in mass production was in the 1950s. Colonial and the nearly identical Bison and Short Cobra grains were commonly used for open and convertible car tops. Long Cobra grain material was available for hardtops and sedans.

Popularity and Decline

Vinyl roofs became increasingly popular in the 1960s and 1970s, as they were seen as a stylish and affordable way to customize a car. However, their popularity declined in the 1980s and 1990s, as they were considered outdated and impractical. Today, vinyl roofs are rarely seen on new cars, but they are still popular on classic cars and collector vehicles.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Vinyl roofs offer several advantages over traditional paint. They are more durable and resistant to fading, chipping, and scratching. They are also waterproof and easy to clean. However, vinyl roofs can be more expensive than paint, and they can be difficult to repair if damaged. Additionally, vinyl roofs can trap heat in the summer, making the car interior uncomfortable.