My top has been on for 8 years, no issues. The repvious top was on for 14 years, when I removed it there were no issues (caused by the vinyl top). According to all of my research if the tops are applied correctly (this is key) they can last MANY MANY years and should not cause ANY problems. However, there are several things that can go wrong or be done incorrectly during the application. This is what causes the tops to fail and the rust to set in.

Here is just one example, when trimming the vinyl if you accidently cut into the clear coat or base coat with your razor blade, IT WILL CAUSE a rust spot. This is just one small example of an installation error. I've seen this frist hand on a top the was professionally installed.

The best advice is to research installation proceedures and have some clue what you are doing before jumping in. The time is well worth the effort in the end. If you had a vinyl top car and a painted top car side by side at a show, the vast majority of spectators always comment positively on the look of the vinyl vs. non vinyl car. I've seen it happen many times over the years. I've even won at shows in first gen "f" body classes and have been told this was one of the deciding factors. IMO if your car had it originally, go for it and you will be happy you did!