Confessions of an Automationeer, Part 262: Copycat Roof Swaps

Confessions of an Automationeer, Part 262: Copycat Roof Swaps

I've recently spent some time investigating some additional possibilities for roof transplants on the '88 Copy Cat, and eventually I was able to come up with the following options as some of the best ones from an aesthetic standpoint:

Above, from top: A comparison of several 3D fixture roof fixtures transplanted onto the '88 Copy Cat (shown here in notchback configuration with a 2.64m wheelbase), shown in side profile.

Aside from the fact that the JAG_220 variant of the SHD 90s Euro Sports fixture set on the notchback is potentially better at making an XJ220 replica than using the supposedly more faithful fastback variant, my testing yielded a few surprises:

• The FER_F50 and FER_F50_GT roof fixtures can work surprisingly well, especially if you make the front and rear fascias (which takes you closer to an F50 replica, if you want to make one).
• The ASC_KZ1 variant of the SHD US 00s Sports fixture set gives even more cab-forward proportions than the JAG_220 fixture variant mentioned above.
• The DOD_VIP_ZBII variant (also from the SHD US 00s Sports fixture set) also provides a more dynamic cab-forward look, as does the AR_8C variant of the SHD Euro 00s Sports fixture - but the former has a more pronounced double-bubble roof.
• The CHE_C5R variant of the SHD US 00s Race fixture set may appear more static on paper than some other options, but in reality, it can be a great choice if you want a more minimalistic look.

I've also tried other 3D roof fixtures on this body set, but these are some of my favorite choices when working with it using a custom roof in place of the stock turret. The only caveat, aside from having to resize and reposition the fixtures accordingly to match the window line is that some of them can make the interior somewhat claustrophobic (if one is fitted at all) due to their small rear windows, but otherwise, they all work well enough.