When I replaced my carpet a couple of winters ago I added extra sound deading material to the floor. First I left the original black material that was on the floor. Then I installed Dynamat Extreme on the entire floor including all the cross members, firewall, and even on the area in front of the convertible top storage area. I did not use it on the doors as some people have done. Additional to the front floor areas I added the silver backed insulatiing material found at most auto parts stores. Then the carpet and finally thick floor mats. It is supprising how much quieter the cockpit area now is. I took as much care as possible to seal all the though fire wall opens. The auto shifter plate does get warm but not hot even in 90+ weather.
Bruce; 268Blaugrun(green) 1970 280SL; IL