Miata Mailing List: February 1996, Message #19
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   From: jcurtis@apcc.com (Jeff Curtis)
Subject: Re: Rollbar? or not.
   Date: Thu, 1 Feb 1996 16:30:16 -0500

>>I've been thinking about getting a rollbar put into my car, but I'm not sure
about the cost, advantages vs. disadvantages, style?<<

IMHO if you are going to put a bar in at all then spend the extra MSUs and get 
a roll bar instead of a style bar.  A style bar has all of the drawbacks of 
putting in a bar (modify carpet, parcel shelf, boot, tonneau, harder to 
operate the top, may block rearward view) without any of the benefits (roll 
over protection, approved for competition driving) except looks.

A style bar is one hoop.  A roll bar is a hoop with front or rear bracing to 
prevent the hoop from folding over in a rollover at speed.  If you want to 
participate in high speed driving events (schools, competition) you will 
almost always be required to have a roll bar and a style bar is unacceptable.

I had my roll bar installed shortly after I bought the car in 91 along with 5 
point harnesses and have loved it.  I think it looks great, I get many 
positive comments about it and it allows me to drive my Miata in high speed 
drivers schools and Solo 1 competition.  Thankfully I have never had to "test" 
the roll over protection.

You can find prices of roll bars in the Miata mag.  The bars cost $200-400 
plus installation $100-$200 (maybe) plus upholstery $50-$100.