The convertible, a perfect vehicle for exploring the world when the sun is out and the temperatures are favorable. It’s just hard to beat having the ability to drop the top and get fresh air while logging miles. Some convertibles are built for performance while others are built for luxurious drives. Some mix luxury and performance.
These 10 convertibles are among our favorites for the summer and fall months.
No. 10 – Mazda Miata MX-5 Grand Touring
The Mazda Miata MX-5 has never been the fastest sports car on the planet; it didn’t need to be. This little convertible is light, it has a manual transmission, and it’s just fun to drive. Oh, it’s also very reliable and affordable for those consumers who want a fun weekend cruiser for those twisty roads. All of the MX-5s are fun, but the Grand Touring trim has bonus features such as heated seats.
No. 9 – Mini Cooper S
Like the MX-5, the Mini Cooper S delivers smiles more through its handling than through its power. The open-top hot hatch handles like a go-kart while the turbocharged engine delivers just enough power with 201 horsepower and 221 lb-ft. of torque. It’s just a classic that continues to excite drivers.
No. 8 – Bentley Continental GT Speed
The first true luxury vehicle on the list, the Bentley Continental GT Speed has enough power for exciting drives. After all, it has a top speed of 208 mph. Yet, sometimes, you just want to slow the pace down and drive through the countryside or city. Maybe you want to enjoy the luxurious interior during a sunset drive. This is one area where the Continental GT Speed particularly shines.
No. 7 – Ford Mustang GT Premium
It doesn’t matter which era Ford is in; the Mustang continues to be a top choice for consumers wanting convertibles. This classic muscle car delivers power, responsive handling, and a decent amount of interior touches that enhance the driving experience. It is one of the many cars on this list with heated seats for the chilly evenings. It also has a manual transmission! The Mustang also has rear seats in case you want to bring extra friends along on your adventures.
No. 6 – BMW Z4 M40i
BMW has long crafted convertibles that cater to the desires of numerous consumers. Some fit four passengers using extra space. Others, such as the Z4 M40i, deliver a sports car experience to only two people at a time. The Z4 Pure Impulse edition, in particular, is a classic sports convertible built for those who want to drop the top and race through the gears. This roadster has an available manual transmission, which BMW paired with a straight-six engine. It boasts variable sport steering, 50-50 weight distribution, and two different wheel sizes built for the rear-wheel drive.
No. 5 – Aston Martin DB12 Volante
The 2024 Aston Martin DB12 Volante was another great addition to a long line of performance vehicles. It delivered the classic Aston look with the blend of performance and power. This particular roadster features a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers 671 horsepower and 590 lb-ft. of torque. It has an Electronic Rear Differential that allows for flexibility based on whether the driver needs stability or agility.
No. 4 – Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet
It would be a crime to make a list of the best open-top cars without including something from Porsche, but how do you pick a favorite? This historic brand has created some of the best performance cars in automotive history. For this exercise, we lean toward the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet due to its standout looks, 191 mph top speed, and purpose-built sport chassis.
No. 3 – Ferrari California
The Ferrari Roma is a newer option for automotive enthusiasts who want to pop the top and go for a cruise under the sunny skies. However, our preferred choice is the Ferrari California. We think this two-seater looks better than the Roma, especially with the white exterior.
No. 2 – Chevrolet Corvette Z06
Like the Mustang, the Corvette is a classic name that consumers associate with the open-top driving experience. This American supercar has shined in this arena over the decades, and the new Z06 is another great example. The sport seats hug the two occupants and keeps them in place as they use the combination of the 690-horsepower engine and the high-performance suspension to make exciting maneuvers. Meanwhile, the open-top allows for fresh air to rush through the cockpit and enhance the sensory experience.
No. 1 – McLaren 750S Spider
McLaren has no shortage of standout open-top cars that can excite drivers with ease. Our personal choice is the 750S Spider, which has that classic McLaren styling. This mid-engine supercar boasts a four-liter twin-turbo V8, a lighter frame, and F1-inspired performance. Plus, it’s one of the best-looking cars on the planet.