Long shot, but might as well post it. I'm doing a repaint of my cabrio, and eventually will need to change from a blue top, to a black one. The top is made of solution-dyed acrylic canvas, and really can't be dyed to another color with good results. I know I can buy an OE quality aftermarket top for about $700, and will go that route, if necessary. But, what I'm hoping, is that perhaps someone has a 1st gen R52 cabrio with a black top, and would prefer to have a blue one? Mine is in excellent condition. I can do the cover swap mechanically. Ideally would be within a day's drive of Raleigh, NC.
I'll trade my hard top for your soft top. Don't tell me you can't do it, if seen what you capable of!