Hardtop or Pop-Top

[udor46]

Many people I started out the van life with a Westfalia POP TOP.  After that I graduated to a sprinter Sportsmobile conversion.
Now, I am looking to buy a Chevrolet Express but debate if I should get a POP Top or a HARDTOP. I stumbled on a Canadian builder New West VR ( Vehicle Recreation) in Quebec City. There are several consideration, like permanent living, climate
I welcome feed-back, comments etc. 

POP TOP 
+ Parking with lower roof line 
+ Less fuel consumption
+ Air Circulation in hot climate. 
+ Better Solar Panel charging
+ Stealth parking
+ City parking ordinance

- Installation Cost GTRV @ $9500
- Canvass damage
- Mold 
- Leaks

HARD TOP
+ No fuss after set-up
+ Overhead Storage option
+ Fan installation
+ Heating
+ Rack Installation
+ Lower Installation Cost

- Higher fuel consumption
- Less stealthy
- [size=x-small]City parking ordinance[/size]

 

[tx2sturgis]

Yep...we always have choices....

aint it great?

 

[John61CT]

Looking for pop-top fittings for DIYers.

 

[Canine]

I've seen people happy as a clam with a pop top while others can't stand them. I'm with the latter group. If it rains long and hard enough, canvas siding will leak. Very hard and expensive to keep them warm in a Canadian winter.