E36 Convertibles - Factory Hard Top questions

[Tim Wolfe <tlw@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I live in New England (Boston area) and am considering buying an E36 convertible to use as my all-year-round daily driver. Does anyone out there have any experience with the factory hard tops for these cars? I'm looking for general information like:
- -Easy/difficult to install?
- -Do they form a tight seal and keep weather out?
- -Is one necessary or can the convertible top take the winter weather?
- -Life span of a convertible top?

thanks
Tim Wolfe
tlw@domain.elided

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