i've been looking at the frame and it appears that the sunoof would not giveup any chassis ridgity, i auto-x so i need the room for my helmet, but i don't want to give up the chassis ridgity

Originally posted by The Beav
i auto-x so i need the room for my helmet, but i don't want to give up the chassis ridgity Unless you plan on driving with the sunroof open and your head cocked to one side so your helmet protrudes through the hole, you'll actually get more headroom without the sunroof. One of the main reasons I ordered the Sport package.

I don't think rigidity (structural integrity) is the issue.

The problem my be clearance, it has been reported that the sunroof gives you less head clearance. Especially if you plan to wear a helmet.

Also, some earlier discussion threads mentioned the additional weight of the motors in the sunroof and how that weight 'could' comprises the 8's maneuverability when pushing the envelope. Somebody computed a coefficient but I can't find the thread, some old timers on this board could probably direct you better.

well when i sat in the 8 at the rev it up event in st. louis (but they both had sunroofs, so how much of a difference is it) i noticed that the amount of space i had between the top of my head and the roof was less than that i would need for a helmet (i'm 6'4"), does the seat move up and down (vertically), that might have been the problem, but i'd honestly rather not get teh sunroof, for the reasons of weight and money (altough i want the bose system and the 6 disc in dash changer and i don't see the bose system as an individual option)

Originally posted by The Beav
i've been looking at the frame and it appears that the sunoof would not giveup any chassis ridgity, i auto-x so i need the room for my helmet, but i don't want to give up the chassis ridgity

Beav,
Here's the thread regarding sunroof weight.sun roof (http://www.rx8forum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=4212&highlight=desmo996)

What is that X-File slogan... the information is out there... (or something like that) ;)

As to the difference in clearance with and without sunroof, that has been posted out there, sorry I can't find the thread. I vaguely recall the difference was WELL UNDER an inch, probably less than 1/2 inch... sorry for being vague. Try to do a search..

Also, I remember seeing a photo of a guy sitting in the 8 with a helmet on, can't quite remember what he stated as his height. Check the Europe forums, I think it was posted in there... good luck..