Hardtop convertibles don't offer much in the way of rollover protection over a softtop - however the advantages in security, cabin sound and thermal insulation make the hardtop much more desirable.

There is hardly a point in locking the doors on a ragtop - because a pocketknife will open the car quicker than a key. The cabin is far quieter and is easier to heat and air condition than even the best softops. Drawbacks of the hardtop include minimal luggage space with the top down, and over time, the possibility of troubles with the complex stowage mechanism.

The Ford Skyliner was a breakthrough in its day, and still stands as a technological masterpiece, if a market failure.

 

Anyone else think that BMW is pathetic putting a ragtop on their 6 series?
Come on now BMW, Pontiac puts a hardtop on a car that's about 1/3 the cost.

 

If they put a carbon fiber hardtop convertible on the M6, I would soil myself in excitement and get one immediately...

 

The first hardtop convertible of recent cars that I knew was the 3000GT Spyder. It was so expensive when it came out (and still is relatively expensive among 3000GTs). It definitely looks great, both top up and down.

The only downside is that the rear trunk is 0% useable, unlike more recent cars, which give you at least a few cubic feet.

btw, the hardtop on th 3000GT spyder was carbon fiber. It's just painted.

 

The problem with the Skyliner was that the technology of the day wasn't quite ready and the mechanism was too complex. Many owners got stuck with an undriveable car when the top failed in the partially up or down position. As mentioned, my uncle had one for a while when I was a kid and it was a marvel to watch-when it worked.