[Baba]

I voted "Convertible".

If going to the track or "racing" isn't a primary objective, the "fun" factor, compared to the "hardtop", is
unparalleled and well-worth the ~$5k price difference between the two, IMO.

If you've never owned a convertible or driven one at length. I strongly suggest you take one out on the
freeway and drive 65+ mph for a while. It's not only a completely different driving experience compared to
the coupe's "windows down-open sunroof" experience, it's a life-style. I call it the "'vert life".

Actually, come to think of it, several people on this forum have rented a Camaro for a few days to try it
out before buying one. If you're uncertain whether you'd be comfortable with a 'vert and renting one is
an option for you, that might be a good way to see for yourself without any sales pressure. Do keep in
mind, if you do rent a 'vert for a few days, it may not be as highly optioned as what you'll find on the
the dealership lot and may not drive as well as a brand new V8. Just keep that in mind.

The 5th Gen. Convertible has often been described by professional car publications (online and print) as
better-looking than the Coupe (that, however, is purely subjective and a matter of individual preference).
Mind you, I'm not saying the 'vert is a better car than the coupe, only that it's a completely different
driving experience.

Since you live in a climate that allows for virtually year-round top-down driving, the only things you really
need to have in a vert are a hat / cap to shield your head from the sun, a towel and suntan lotion. People
(read; coupe owners) often laugh about the fact that convertible owners frequently turn on their AC when
they're driving. It's no different than driving any other car. It's hot outside. The AC on with the top-down
in oppressive humidity is awesome. It's no different than if you were driving a coupe and it's an absolute
"must" when you're sitting in traffic tie-ups, anyway.

I drove a girlfriend's convertible in the late 80's for an entire summer while she was on a temporary overseas
deployment. I was bitten by the bug from that time on. When it came time for me to buy a new car a few
years later, however, I had to consider finances and practicality. 16 years later, I purchased a new 2008 Saturn
SKY Redline) and in 2011 traded it in for my current Camaro Convertible (because I wanted more room, more HP
and the potential to carry a spare tire - which isn't even a remote option in the SKY). I, for one, haven't
experienced any problems with any convertible - either top-wise or mechanically, to speak of.

The only potential problem(s) with any convertible, is that its top and water management (read; drainage)
bags are its "Achilles heel". The 2014's, however, have better top canvas quality and the "kinks" have
been worked out compared to the 2011 and 2012 model years. The 5th Gen. Convertibles are renowned
for very little "cowl shake". The biggest PITA with the 'vert is putting on the tonneau cover (which isn't
an absolute "must" but completes the "top-down" look perfectly).

One other thing to be mindful of is that if the rear window ever needs replacement, the top needs to be
removed - it is, with all likelihood, not a "Safelite" repair in your driveway type of job.

Post your question over in the Convertible forum and "wallow" in the enthusiastic replies of current
5th Gen. 'vert owners.

I've attached the price list for the 2014's (through the courtesy of Camaro5 denizens). Hopefully you'll
find it useful.

Good luck with your decision-making process and please keep us posted.