Convertible cars offer a unique and exhilarating driving experience that can’t be replicated by any other type of vehicle. The feeling of the wind rushing past and the open sky above is incredibly liberating, and it’s no wonder that convertible cars have been popular for generations. Whether you’re tooling down a coastal highway or winding your way through a scenic mountain pass, a convertible will make you feel connected to your surroundings in a way that a closed-top car simply can’t. Our list of the top seven best convertibles are all bestsellers that are well-reviewed by our sources.
Why build a car with a removable top? First invented in the 1800s, convertibles predate gasoline engines! The first ones were horseless carriages with folding fabric roofs. Here are some more interesting factoids about convertibles.
The History of Convertibles:
- They didn’t have roll bars until the 1950s. Safety wasn’t a major concern in early convertibles, and roll bars weren’t introduced until the 1950s, thanks to concerns about rollover accidents.
- Peugeot made the first retractable hardtop in 1934. Before that, all convertibles had soft tops that needed to be manually folded and stored.
- The first power-operated convertible top appeared in 1939. This was a major innovation that made convertibles more user-friendly and popular.
- Convertible popularity peaked in the 1950s and 1960s. These were the golden years of the American muscle car, and many iconic convertibles were produced during this time, such as the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.
What to look for in a convertible:
There are many impressive models on the market today, but they are not all created equal. Below is a list of some of the things you’ll want to look out for on the hunt for your dream car.
- Hard vs. Soft Top: Soft tops offer classic charm and easy storage, while hardtops provide better security and noise insulation. Electric folding mechanisms add convenience, but manual operation can be more reliable.
- Performance Prowess: Convertibles, by nature, sacrifice some rigidity for open-air joy. Look for models with reinforced chassis and suspension systems to minimize flex and ensure a smooth, confident ride. Don’t forget engine options – a zippy powertrain adds exhilaration to every cruise.
- Style that Steals the Show: Convertibles are all about turning heads. Choose a design that speaks to your soul, whether it’s a timeless classic, a sporty head-turner, or a luxurious headliner. Remember, color plays a starring role – opt for hues that complement your personality and make a statement.
- Practicality: Don’t let practicality get lost in the wind! Consider trunk space – will it hold your weekend essentials? Think about rear-seat access and legroom – will your passengers enjoy the ride as much as you? Technology like blind-spot monitoring and heated seats add comfort and convenience to your open-air adventures.
- Safety First, Fun Always: Convertibles come with inherent safety considerations. Look for models with rollover bars and reinforced A-pillars for optimal protection. Consider airbags specifically designed for convertibles, and remember, always buckle up for every journey, no matter how short.
Modern convertibles are more practical than historic models and are often equipped with high-tech features. Modern amenities and electronics make the convertible cooler than ever. And let’s face it: convertibles can be a symbol of luxury and status. We sorted through 10 expert reviews to find the best convertibles on the market today that were most recommended across the board. Let us know what you think in the comments!
The List: Best Convertible Cars, According to Experts
1. Chevrolet Corvette
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its powerful performance and sleek design. First introduced in 1953, the Corvette has been a symbol of American ingenuity and style for over 60 years. The Edvocate explains, “The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette C9 Convertible brings American muscle to the world of luxury drop-tops. Equipped with an even more powerful V8 engine than its predecessors, this stunning machine offers incredible performance alongside the thrill of open-air driving. The stylish cockpit features high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology, including the latest connectivity options.”
CNET offers, “If you want to talk about value for money, it’s all about the Chevrolet Corvette. This mid-engine bad boy starts at $69,595 including $1,295 for destination, but it gives six-figure supercars a run for their money. The power retractable hard top can be lowered in 13 seconds at speeds up to 30 miles-per-hour.”
True Car states, “An astonishing blend of exotic performance and reasonable pricing, the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette delights, whether in base Stingray form or the screaming, fearsome Z06. The Chevrolet Corvette is a 2-seater vehicle that comes in 6 trim levels.”
2. Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang is a classic American muscle car known for its roaring engine, powerful performance, and iconic design. Since its debut in 1964, the Mustang has captivated car enthusiasts and become a symbol of American freedom. Edmunds says, “The Mustang convertible is an impressive effort from Ford. Base Mustangs are accessible to a wide range of drivers, and V8 models deliver pulse-quickening performance while maintaining enough civility for daily use.”
Motortrend describes, “Ford’s iconic pony car has great engines and classic styling. The base model is surprisingly fun and V-8 versions provide outrageous performance. A digital-first interior is more upscale than the previous model’s cabin.”
True Car elaborates, “The first and last pony car standing, the 2024 Ford Mustang offers a winning combination of swoopy looks, engaging driving characteristics, and affordable prices. The Ford Mustang is a 4-seater vehicle that comes in 5 trim levels. The most popular style is the GT Premium Convertible, which starts at $53,110 and comes with a 5.0L V8 engine and Rear Wheel Drive.”
3. Chevrolet Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro is a fierce competitor to the Ford Mustang, boasting a bold, aggressive design and powerful engine options. A staple in the muscle car scene, the Camaro offers thrilling performance and a head-turning presence on the road. Motortrend adds, “Excellent acceleration, handling, ride, and braking make the Camaro a great performer. But a cramped interior and small trunk limit daily usability.”
Kelly Blue Book comments, “The Chevy Camaro continues to be a value-conscious choice in American muscle cars. It’s more affordable than the Mustang, and it offers up iconic styling, a robust range of engines, and some nice tech features for the money.”
CNET details, “If American muscle is what you’re looking for, check out the Chevrolet Camaro convertible. The top can be raised and lowered in 14 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph and while you can go bonkers with the ZL1, I like the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine.”
4. Mazda Miata MX-5
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a two-seat rear-wheel drive roadster known for its nimble handling and fun driving experience. Often favorably compared to Porsche models, the MX-5 Miata offers a surprisingly affordable entry point into the world of sports cars. CNET raves, “There is a reason why the answer is always Miata. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the quintessential convertible: small, rear-wheel drive and room for two. The latest Miatas are available with a soft top or in the gorgeous RF trim with a targa top.”
Hot Cars praises, “The MX-5 Miata has been an iconic sports car since its introduction in 1989. Over the years, the Miata has gotten better, offering impressive performance and handling. Nowadays, the MX-5 Miata is among the most entertaining sports cars on the market.”
Car and Driver exclaims, “To call the 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata an icon would be an understatement. The drop-top compact sports car reinvented the niche when it appeared for the first time back in 1989. Since then, it has only gotten better, honing its performance and handling to what it is today: one of the most entertaining things on four wheels.”
5. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a sleek sedan known for its luxurious interior and refined handling. Offering powerful engine options and a host of advanced features, the C-Class delivers a satisfying driving experience for both city commutes and weekend getaways. True Car reviews, “The 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been completely redesigned, and the result is a true European driving experience with many features that echo those of the formidable Mercedes S-Class.”
Edmunds claims, “The 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class welcomes a new addition to the lineup this year: the high-performance AMG C 43, which adds a dash of excitement to the C300’s focus on comfort and luxury. The changes for the new C43, like the C300, only apply to the sedan. Mercedes will continue to sell the coupe and convertible versions of the C-Class for the 2023 model year, but the two-doors are still based on the fourth-generation C-Class rather than the fifth-generation sedan.”
Car and Driver relates, “Life is short: Skip the SUV and drive a real performance car. Might we suggest the absolutely ballistic 2023 Mercedes-Benz C63 S? This twin-turbo two-door boasts a 503-hp V-8 powertrain and a chassis that delivers laser-focused handling, making it one of the most brutish models in Mercedes-AMG’s product portfolio.”
6. Porche 911
The Porsche 911 is a timeless icon of automotive design, instantly recognizable for its sleek lines and rear-engine layout. For over six decades, the 911 has dominated the sports car world, revered for its unparalleled performance and exhilarating driving experience. According to Motortrend, “The 911 imparts a direct bond between driver and machine. It’s expensive, but the 911’s performance and quality exist alongside an excellent value rating.”
Car and Driver asserts, “If you close your eyes and picture a Porsche, it’s likely that the 911 renders first in your imagination. This rear-engined sports car is a legend—and for good reason. Make that many reasons. For decades it has been a benchmark for performance and handling and feel, inspiring rivals such as the Aston Martin Vantage, the Audi R8, and the Maserati MC20, to name a few.”
Hot Cars evaluates, “The Porsche 911 is among the few cars that help define the sports car category. All models of the 911 offer a delightful experience, from the unique engine sounds to the impressive handling. The 911 aims to be the ideal driver’s car, with most trims being good enough to drive daily. Porsche offers multiple trims of the 911, all with impressive performance, even the base Carrera.”
7. Bentley Continental
The Bentley Continental is the epitome of automotive luxury, offering unrivaled comfort and refinement in a handcrafted, grand tourer package. The Continental oozes with sophistication, making it the ultimate choice for discerning drivers. True Car compliments, “The Continental is Bentley’s sports coupe, a two-door grand tourer offering upwards of 500 horsepower for effortless long-distance cruises. A convertible is also available. The Continental’s air suspension provides a cloud-like ride, while the hand-crafted cabin pampers with elegant materials and high-end technology.”
CNET assures, “The roof is still able to be opened or closed in just 19 seconds and is available in seven colors, including tweed. You’ll get a wide range of exterior paint options, and 15 main hide and 11 secondary hide choices for the interior. Speaking of, you’ll get embroidered headrests, Speed badging, heated and cooled everything and your choice of wood or piano black trim that is just downright gorgeous.”
Hot Cars articulates, “The Continental GT is Bentley’s sports car with plenty of power for effortless long-distance cruises. Bentley offers this two-door grand tourer as a coupe or convertible. The Continental GT has sumptuous luxury and upper-class styling worthy of its six-figure price.”
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