I wish there were more convertibles on the market now because they're fantastic. Take it from someone who hasn't driven a car with a fixed roof in years.
My first car had a roof, but I've always preferred driving with the top down. Today, I drive a Mazda Miata, and convertibles, in general, have a lot to offer in their folding-roof packaging, believe it or not.
- These convertibles are enjoyable to drive, have zippy powertrains, and are just plain unusual from your typical automobile.
- they leak a little when you go through the car wash, and keeping a soft top clean is a bother, but it's a little price to pay for the everlasting grin I get when I get behind the wheel of a drop-top.
- I've compiled a list of the greatest convertibles on the market today.
- After you've finished reading, check out some of the advice I have for dealing with owning a convertible daily car.
The finest convertible for 2021 is perfect for catching some sunlight
Roadshow/Craig Cole
There's a reason why Miata is always the solution. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the classic convertible: it's tiny, has rear-wheel drive, and seats two people.
The newest Miatas come with either a soft-top or a Targa top in the stunning RF trim. Simply unlock one central clasp and push the soft top back to remove it.
To reduce the RF, the automobile must travel at a speed of no more than six miles per hour for 13 seconds.
The 2.0-liter I4 engine produces 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, and six-speed manual transmission is available. It isn't the fastest in a straight line, but when the road twists, its superb handling can put many more powerful vehicles to shame.
What's the best part? They start at $27,825 plus $995 for shipping, and even the most costly RF is under $35,000.
Check out our review of the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Roadshow/Andrew Krok
If you want to talk about value for money, the Chevrolet Corvette is the way to go. Starting at $68,495 plus $1,095 for delivery, this mid-engine bad-boy gives supercars in the six-figure bracket a run for their money.
The power-retractable hardtop can be down in 13 seconds at speeds up to 30 miles per hour.
490 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque are produced by a 6.2-liter V8 engine. The $5,995 Z51 Performance Package includes a limited-slip differential, performance suspension, Brembo brakes, and sticky summer tires, all of which work together to propel the 'Vette from 0-60 mph in under three seconds.
That's it, Ferrari
Check out our evaluation of the Chevrolet Corvette 2021.
The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible has more trunk capacity. Roadshow/Nick Miotke
The BMW 8 Series Convertible is available in 840i and M850i xDrive trims, or the full-on M8 convertible for those who want to go all out.
The middle M850i appeals to me because it combines power and luxury, as well as the inclusion of all-wheel drive.
- You may choose from wood, piano black, or carbon fiber inside trim, as well as all the Merino leather you could want.
- Heated seats, armrests, and steering wheel are all available, as are vented seats and the option of a neck warmer, which you should choose.
- There's also a 1,375-watt Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, as well as a host of high-tech driver's aids including backup assistance, which can follow the car's reverse route to help you get out of tight parking places.
- The M850i's 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine produces 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, and the multilayer fabric soft top can be down in 15 seconds at 30 mph. Of course, all of this German delicacy isn't cheap.
- To buy a bare-bones M850i, expect to pay $122,395, plus $995 for the destination.
Emme Hall/Roadshow 2019 BMW M850i Convertible: Grand tourer with a lot of curb appeal
It's large, gorgeous, and quite expensive. With a starting price of $363,500, the Rolls-Royce Dawn is for the fancy-pants affluent among us. At speeds of up to 32 mph, it has a well-insulated soft top that can be down in 22 seconds.
- The Dawn's 6.6-liter twin-turbo V12 engine produces 563 horsepower and 605 pound-feet of torque while operating quietly in the background.
- This vehicle is like driving a cloud, and the interior of this car has so much open-pore wood in it that you'd swear you were in Muir Woods.
- You may have your heated and cooled chairs on at the same time as having a massage, and you can select separate temperatures for your body and your feet thanks to the unique climate control.
- And, hey, there's an umbrella in the entrance if you get caught in the rain.
- How convenient. When it comes to doors, you don't have to do it yourself.
- All you have to do is press a button.
- The hoi-polloi are the only ones who shut their doors.
Of course, most clients choose the bespoke option, which involves Rolls-Royce customizing your paint job or even harvesting a tree from your estate for the interior wood, which is not a joke.
Roadshow/Steven Ewing
Look no farther than the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet for the greatest performance from a convertible.
The 3,800-pound convertible is powered by a 3.8-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine with 590 pound-feet of torque and an eight-speed PDK gearbox.
It has a peak speed of 205 mph, can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 2.7 seconds, and can complete the quarter-mile in 10.6 seconds. Oh, and the soft top is also rather fast. At speeds of up to 31 mph, you may drop it in 12 seconds.
Pirelli NA 255/35 tires on 20-inch rims in the front and huge 315/30 on 21s in the back prevent this beast from oversteering too hard through the twisties, while all-wheel drive protects it from oversteering too hard through the twisties.
However, the Porsche is not cheap. To begin, budget $217,650, plus $1,350 for travel expenses.
Read our Porsche 911 Turbo S review for 2021.
Roadshow/Steven Ewing
For the best performance from a convertible, go no further than the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet.
A 3.8-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine with 590 pound-feet of torque and an eight-speed PDK transmission propel the 3,800-pound convertible.
It reaches a top speed of 205 mph, accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 2.7 seconds, and covers the quarter-mile in 10.6 seconds. Oh, and the soft top moves quickly. You can drop it in 12 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph.
Pirelli NA 255/35 tires on 20-inch wheels in the front and massive 315/30 on 21s in the rear keep this beast from oversteering too much through the twisties, and all-wheel drive keeps it from oversteering too much down the straights.
The Porsche, on the other hand, is not inexpensive. Begin with a budget of $217,650, plus $1,350 for travel costs.
Read our 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S review.
Roadshow/Steven Ewing
Of course, you'll have to spend a lot more money if you want supercar convertible performance and elegance, and the McLaren 720S Spider is one of my favorites.
The convertible top, first and foremost, can be composed of carbon fiber or cool electrochromic glass, which can be tinted or translucent. It falls in 11 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph, independent of roof configuration.
The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine in the 720S Spider delivers 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. The rear wheels are driven by a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
With a curb weight of 2,900 pounds, the McLaren can hit 62 mph in 2.9 seconds and a quarter-mile pace of 10.4 seconds on its way to a peak speed of 212 mph. It's a fantastic googly moogly.
Because this is a supercar, you get supercar looks like a billionaire — excuse me, dihedral — doors and sculpted body panels that distinguish the McLaren from the competition. How much does it cost? Only $317,500, which includes $2,500 in travel costs.
Roadshow/Emme Hall
If you're looking for some American muscle, the Chevrolet Camaro convertible is a great option. The top can be raised and down in 14 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph, and while the ZL1 engine is amazing, I prefer the normally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine.
- The rear wheels receive 455 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque via a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- You don't have to pay the ZL1's gas-guzzling fee, and you get plenty of power in exchange.
- A V8 Camaro costs $40,995, plus $995 for delivery, which is a reasonable price for a vintage American pony car.
- In a convertible, the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 delivers remarkable performance. View all of the photos Mini
The dual-function soft top of the Mini Cooper S convertible appeals to me. You may either move it halfway back for a more open-air feeling or push a button to have it fully open in 18 seconds at speeds up to 18 mph. In addition, a Union Jack pattern may be sewed directly in. Bonus!
The Mini is a delight to drive, except from the unusual top. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine makes 189 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque and is mated to a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that drives the front wheels.
The Mini convertible, like the rest of the Mini lineup, is famed for its go-kart-like handling. Its low-slung, small size, and power delivery make it a thrill when the road becomes tricky.
A Mini Cooper S convertible will set you back $32,250 + $850 for destination.
Mercedes-Benz
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class comes close to becoming a four-seat convertible that can fit people in the back seats. Legroom in the rear seat is 34.1 inches. When compared to the BMW 8-Series convertible's paltry 29.5 inches of rear legroom, this may appear little, but it's opulent.
In the E-Class, the Aircap wind deflector reduces air turbulence for front and rear-seat passengers, while the Airscarf system keeps everyone's necks warm. The top can be down in 20 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph.
A 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine powers the E 450 Cabriolet. The mild hybrid EQ Boost technology adds 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque to the 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Expect to pay far more than $73,000, plus $1,050 in delivery costs.
Check out our Mercedes-Benz E-Class review for 2021
The Mercedes-Benz E450 convertible, which will be available in 2021, is a drop-top that will make your heart stop. View all of the photos Emme Hall/Roadshow
- If you want your convertible to go practically everywhere, a Jeep Wrangler is the way to go.
- If you want to go topless, though, you'll need to use some muscle.
- On the three-piece hardtop, two "freedom panels" may be removed on the fly, kind of.
- You'll still need equipment and time, but you can keep your recovery and camping supplies in your Jeep if you haven't overloaded it.
- You'll need tools and a helper to remove the larger third of the hardtop, as well as a place to store it in your garage.
There are two soft tops to choose from, but don't expect them to drop at the touch of a button. Windows must be taken out, zippers tugged, and Velcro straps tightened. It's usually easiest to just have the top down from March to November, and if it rains, well well.
The Wrangler, even in its most basic form, can take you far from civilization, let alone the Rubicon model, which includes front and rear lockers as well as a sway bar disconnect.
Customers may choose from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a 3.6-liter V6 with or without e-Torque, or a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. A basic two-door Sport costs $29,970 plus $1,495 for destination.
- Category Name Convertible top speed Base price Comparison of the best convertibles for 2021 The 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata is the best convertible overall, with a soft-top time of 3 seconds and a hardtop time of 13 seconds. $27,825 The best convertible for the money is the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, which takes 13 seconds to complete. $68,495 The best luxury convertible in 2021 is the BMW 8 Series convertible, which takes 15 seconds to complete.
- $122,395 Rolls-Royce Dawn 22 seconds, best ultra-luxury convertible 2021 $363,500 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet 12 seconds fastest convertible $217,650 The best ultra-high-performance convertible in 2021 is the McLaren 720S Spider, which takes 11 seconds to complete.
- $317,500 2021 Chevrolet Camaro V8 Convertible 14 seconds best muscle car convertible $40,995 The most effective tiny convertible 18 seconds in the 2021 Mini Cooper S Convertible $32,250 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet 20 seconds best four-seater convertible 2021 $73,000 Jeep Wrangler 2021 Best Convertible SUV 18 seconds $29,970 Sky One-Touch/approximately 5 minutes soft top/approximately 10 minutes hardtop
Any top convertible list will always include the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Roadshow/Steven Ewing Which convertible is the best to buy?
The greatest convertible to purchase is one you can afford, one that matches your lifestyle, and one that makes you happy.
Seriously, I could tell you how amazing the Mazda Miata is, but if you have a family of six or routinely ride with three buddies, it's not going to be the best convertible for you. Similarly, the champagne-like Rolls-Royce Dawn isn't for you if you're on a beer budget.
The good news is that a convertible is available for everyone. Get a Jeep Wrangler if you enjoy off-roading.
If you're looking for straight-line speed, the Chevrolet Camaro is the car for you. And, hey, if money isn't an issue, you can't go wrong with the McLaren 720S.
Is it preferable to have a hardtop convertible or a soft-top convertible?
It's all a matter of personal choice. A hardtop is generally controlled electronically, and any moving parts have the potential to fail.
A hardtop, on the other hand, is usually more sealed against leaks and can bear the weight of winter snow. If you have to park on the street, they are also more insulated and safe.
Soft tops are usually easier to remove, however, the soft top on the Jeep Wrangler is a little more complex. They can also be a less expensive alternative to a hardtop.
They do, however, need extra maintenance to keep the cloth clean and generate a lot of cabin noise. If your soft top of choice has the option of a glass rear window rather than a plastic one, spend the extra money. The plastic ones scratch easily, and you won't be able to see out the rear in a year.
You could also discover that a soft-top attracts burglars. I've made it a practice to keep nothing valuable in my car and to leave it unlocked. A knife through your soft top may cost a lot of money.
Allow the jerk to go through your shoddy CD collection by opening the door.
A convertible may easily be driven all year with the appropriate tires.
Roadshow/Steven Ewing Is it possible to drive a convertible in the rain?
Convertibles are excellent in the rain. In a downpour, older soft tops may leak a little, but new convertibles should be OK. Your tires, on the other hand, are something to keep an eye on.
Listen to me out: Summer tires, which are designed to function best in hotter weather, are commonly installed on convertibles from the factory.
When it starts to rain and the temperature drops, your tires may lose traction in the wet. Those who reside in colder climates are strongly advised to invest in a set of winter tires.
In the cold, can you drive a soft-top convertible?
In the winter, you may drive a soft-top convertible. Before you go out, make sure you clear off all of the snow and remember my tire caution. You may want to pack a sweater and crank up the heat because the soft top won't insulate you as well as a hardtop.
On a bright day with snow all around, bundling up and dropping the soft top is one of life's few joys, but keep in mind that many soft tops shrink a little as it gets cold. They're simple to pull down, but putting them back up may need some effort.