Gen II -- Why No Hood Leading-Edge Gap Seal? The Gen III has it!

I pull into a parking space between two 2009 Camrys (Camries?)
Just for fun, I get out and look at them really closely.
Whoa! What's this? There's a gasket sealing the ~3/8 inch gap between
the leading edge of the hoods and the bodywork. Its outer surface is
effectively flush with the body work and the hood... a smooth
transition between the two. Interesting.



I check the hood-upper grill gap on Amapola. It's about 5/16 inch, no
gasket. Open hood; no gasket anywhere in sight.

Check other Toyotas near by:
* Gen III has a ~1/8 inch gap and a gasket, again with a nearly flush fit.
* Recent Corolla has ~1/4 inch gap and a gasket, and a nearly flush fit.

Why should Gen II drivers care?

To help retain heat in the engine bay in the cold months I have both
upper and lower grill blocks. Additionally, I'm seeing some FE/MPG
improvement from using hadiant heat barrier/reflector. More on this
here:

http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-prius-modifications/70513-ice-radiant-heat-reflector-gen-ii.html

I see the gaping 5/16 inch gap between the blocked upper grill and the
hood as a way for unwanted cold air to be jammed into the engine
bay, where I don't want it.

What to do?

I could buy some of the Camry gasketing. It is a very soft, hollow "P"
shape.Not all that expensive, ~ $22 -- I've found nothing in this shape
at the local Auto Zone, Pep Boys, etc.:

Wholesale Toyota Parts

Or, I could block it with a slice of the water pipe insulation material I
already use. Cost, ~ $0.00

In addition to blocking the air, I want a smooth transition, like the
other cars. I'm thinking I am more likely to get it with the Camry
gasket than with the pipe insulation.

Constructive comments, observations, etc, are welcome.