So you're thinking about adding a wind screen to your beloved Corvette? You've come to the right place. As any 'Vette owner knows, driving with the top down is one of the greatest pleasures of owning this iconic American sports car. But battling the wind at high speeds can take a toll, leaving you wind-whipped and worn out after a long drive. A wind screen offers the perfect solution, blocking the wind while still allowing you to enjoy the open-air experience. In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know before adding a wind screen to your Corvette, from selecting the right style and material to ensuring a perfect fit and finish. By the time you're done reading, you'll be ready to hit the road in comfort and style.
Why Add a Windscreen to Your Corvette?
Adding a windscreen or windshield to your Corvette can improve your driving experience in several ways:
Reduced Wind Buffeting
Driving a Corvette with the top down can be an exhilarating experience, but the high wind speeds and air turbulence can also be fatiguing over long distances or at high speeds. A windscreen helps divert the wind up and over the cockpit, reducing the buffeting effect. This makes conversing easier and longer drives more comfortable.
Protection From the Elements
While the thrill of open-air motoring is appealing, sometimes the elements don't cooperate. A windscreen provides protection from wind, dust, rain, snow and other debris so you can keep enjoying your Corvette even when the weather is less than ideal. Most windscreens are easily removable so you can take them off when the weather improves.
Enhanced Styling
Many Corvette owners find that a windscreen complements the styling of their vehicle. Windscreens are available in styles ranging from minimalist designs that blend in with your Corvette's lines to more aggressive, custom looks. You can choose a windscreen that matches your Corvette's body color or select one with a contrasting color for a bolder appearance.
Added Security
An open-air Corvette can be an inviting target for thieves. A windscreen provides a degree of added security by shielding the cockpit from prying eyes. While not as secure as a hardtop, a windscreen deters casual thieves and also makes it more difficult to access the interior compartments of your Corvette.
Adding a custom windscreen or windshield is an easy way to enhance your enjoyment of your Corvette. The benefits of reduced wind, protection from the elements, improved styling and added security make a windscreen a worthwhile investment for any Corvette owner.
Choosing the Right Corvette Wind Screen
Choosing the right wind screen for your Corvette depends on your needs and preferences. There are a few options to consider:
Material
The two most common materials for wind screens are acrylic and polycarbonate. Acrylic, like Plexiglas, is lightweight, weather- resistant and budget-friendly but can scratch easily. Polycarbonate, like Lexan, is extremely impact-resistant and durable but more expensive. For most Corvettes, acrylic works great and will hold up well to normal road debris. Only choose polycarbonate if you're concerned about high impact resistance.
Height
Wind screens typically come in three heights: standard, mid-size and full. A standard screen will deflect wind over the driver and passenger seats. A mid-size screen provides coverage up to about chin level, while a full screen extends up to near the top of the windshield for maximum wind protection. The height you need depends on how much of the cockpit you want to shield from the wind.
Color
Clear and tinted wind screens are available to suit your Corvette's paint color or interior. A tinted screen reduces glare from the sun and helps prevent the interior from fading. Choose a tint that complements your Corvette's existing window tint. A darker tint may impact nighttime visibility, so keep that in mind.
Conclusion
So there you have it, everything you need to know before adding a Corvette windscreen. While it may seem like a simple upgrade, there are some important factors to consider to make sure you get the right windscreen for your Vette and that it's installed properly. Do some research on the different options, check if it will affect any warranties you may have, and find a reputable shop to do the installation. Adding a windscreen is a great way to improve your driving experience and allow you to enjoy your Corvette even more. With the top down and the windscreen deflecting the breeze, you'll be cruising in style. Happy motoring!