Moonroof vs. Sunroof

Have you ever wondered what is the difference between a moonroof and a sunroof? Do you even hear anyone use the term moonroof, or have you only ever heard sunroof? These terms are confusing, so let's take a closer look at the difference between the two words.

Sunroof is a broad term that refers to any opening in the top of a car that lets in light and air. So, a sunroof can refer to a hole in the roof of a car that is created by a pop-up panel that "vents" the car, a hole created when a panel is completely removed, or even a sliding glass panel that disappears into a space between the ceiling of the car and the outside of the car. The idea of a sunroof pre-dates the moonroof. So, a sunroof is any panel in the roof of the car that can be opened to allow for light and ventilation.

A moonroof is a specific type of sunroof. The moonroof was created in the 1970s, when an inventor decided to fill in the "hole" with a panel of glass. This glass can be tinted or not. So, a moonroof is a transparent part of the roof of the car that can typically be opened to allow for ventilation as well as the light that is already coming through.

What is interesting is that most modern "sunroofs" are actually moonroofs! We often refer to the moonroofs in modern cars-panels of glass that open-as sunroofs. So, the next time you use these terms, consider their original meaning, and potentially educate those around you!