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Sunny Days Are Coming
Admit it . . . you’ve talked about it for years . . . “Next summer I’m getting a convertible.” Well, summer is right around the corner, and a wide array of open-top autos exists to engage your sun-induced pursuits, featuring nearly 40 models on the market and prices starting around $25,000. Whether the goal is performance, luxury or simply an attention getter, there’s a convertible available that will fit the bill. Here’s a look at this year’s convertibles (listed in order by base MSRP), so get ready to start soaking up the sun.
© FCA US LLC
Fiat 124 Spider
Base MSRP: $24,995
The Fiat 124 Spider hit U.S. shores last year, returning after a 30-year absence from the U.S. market. The result of a collaboration between Fiat and Mazda, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is based on the Mazda MX-5 Miata, but with Italian styling and a Fiat drivetrain, suspension and tuning. Designed in Turin, Italy, the sporty Fiat features styling cues taken from the original 124 Spider, including a hexagonal upper grille, power domes on the hood and sharp horizontal taillights. The rear-wheel-drive 124 Spider is powered by Fiat’s 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo 4-cylinder engine that produces 160 horsepower (164 in Abarth) and 184 lb-ft of torque, teamed with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic. The convertible top is manually operated — easily put up or down from the driver’s seat.
© Mazda North American Operations
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Base MSRP: $25,295
The Miata is the most successful 2-seater sports cars of all time — according to the folks at Guinness World Records. Since the launch of the first Miata in 1989, more than 1 million MX-5s have been sold worldwide. True to the original premise, the Miata is impressively lightweight, nimble and fun to drive. The latest-generation Mazda MX-5 went on sale in summer 2015, sending power to the rear wheels via a 155-horsepower SKYACTIV- G 2.0-liter engine teamed with a standard SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual transmission. In addition to the manual soft-top, Mazda has also introduced the MX-5 RF (retractable fastback). With a power-folding hardtop that can open or close in 13 seconds, the RF features a fastback coupe design that stays in place, even with the roof stowed.
© BMW USA
MINI Cooper Convertible
Base MSRP: $26,900
The smallest 4-seat convertible on the market, the aptly-named MINI gets a refresh for the 2018 model year. The update includes a new MINI logo, new alloy wheels, MINI logo projection from the driver’s side exterior mirror, new interior features such as wireless phone charging and rear LED lights with a Union Jack design. A rearview camera and park-distance control are standard across the MINI lineup. While the styling is updated, there’s still no mistaking that classic “bulldog” look, and the MINI retains it’s fun-to-drive characteristics. The MINI Cooper Convertible is available in three configurations ranging from the base level with a turbocharged 3-cylinder engine to the sporty John Cooper Works edition, drawing 228 horsepower from its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. The soft-top is power operated and functional at speeds up to 18 mph. There’s also a “sunroof” mode that retracts the panel over the front passengers only.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Jeep Wrangler
Base MSRP: $27,495
Jeep has completely redesigned the iconic Wrangler for the 2018 model year — the off-roader’s first complete makeover in 10 years. While staying true to the Wrangler’s legendary off-road capability, the new model gets the latest in fuel-efficient powertrains, improved on-road dynamics as well as advanced safety and technology. Best of all, there are multiple open-top options, all of which are much easier to use than the previous generation. The Sunrider folding soft-top is standard and the rear window and rear side windows replace the zippers with a new retainer system that slides into a groove for easier removal and installation. The Freedom Top 3-piece removable hardtop is optional for all trim levels, as is the optional Sky One-Touch Power Top — a power-retractable full-length canvas top with removable rear quarter windows.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
smart fortwo cabrio
Base MSRP: $28,100
Smart has made the bold move of selling only electric vehicles going forward, and that makes the fortwo the only electric convertible on the U.S. market. The tiny 2-seater is one of the smallest cars on the road, yet it remains relatively roomy for two passengers. Power comes from an 80-horsepower electric motor situated in the rear to drive the rear wheels. Estimated range is 70–80 miles, with a full charge only three hours away via a 240-volt charger. The power-operated soft-top can be retracted partially like a sunroof or retracted completely to fully enjoy the outdoors.
© Ford Motor Company
Ford Mustang Convertible
Base MSRP: $31,180
The legendary Mustang gets a refresh for 2018, sporting a new, sleeker design as well as added technology and features. The pony car has a restyled hood and grille with new hood vents designed to give it a more aggressive look. All Mustangs now feature LED headlights and taillights as well as a new bumper and fascia. The 2018 Mustang Convertible is available with two engine choices: a 2.3-liter 310-horsepower EcoBoost or a 5.0-liter V8 that now puts out an impressive 460 horsepower. Mustang also is available with the latest safety technology, including Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, distance alert, lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist.
© General Motors
Chevrolet Camaro Convertible
Base MSRP: $31,905
As it has been for decades, the Mustang Convertible’s chief rival is the Chevrolet Camaro Convertible. The Camaro received a full redesign in 2016; however, it still carries elements reminiscent of that original 1967 design. The 2018 Camaro convertible is available in a variety of trim levels ranging from the base-level LS with its new turbocharged 275-horsepower 2.0-liter engine to the extreme ZL1 that boasts a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 putting out a whopping 650 horsepower. The Camaro convertible features a multi-layer soft-top that mimics the shape of the coupe, with a hard tonneau that covers the roof when stowed. The fully-automatic electro-hydraulic power roof system can be opened or closed at speeds up to 30 mph.
© General Motors
Buick Cascada
Base MSRP: $33,065
Cascada is Buick’s 2+2 convertible that joined the lineup as a 2016 model. It had been 25 years since the last time Buick offered a convertible, the last being the 1991 Reatta. This modern-day convertible features a power soft-top with thermal and acoustic insulation that can be lowered in 17 seconds at speed up to 31 mph. Standard equipment is plentiful on the Cascada, including leather seating, heated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot and HID articulated headlights. Powering the front-wheel-drive Cascada is a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing 200 horsepower.
© Audi of America
Audi A3 Cabriolet
Base MSRP: $38,350
When the latest generation of the A3 was introduced a few years ago, Audi took the opportunity to add the open-top version to the U.S. market. Sporting a power-folding cloth top and available Audi quattro all-wheel drive, the A3 received a design update last year with styling that fits nicely with the rest of the Audi lineup. Powering the A3 Cabriolet is a turbocharged 2.0 TFSI that produces 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, teamed with an S Tronic 6-speed Dual-Clutch automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes leather seating surfaces, Audi Xenon plus headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights with available dynamic turn signals and dual-zone automatic climate control.
© Nissan North America
Nissan 370Z Roadster
Base MSRP: $41,820
The Nissan 370Z Roadster is the open-top version of Nissan’s 2-seat sports car, designed to create a sleek silhouette that matches the styling of the 370Z coupe, whether the top is up or down. For 2018 Nissan has made some updates to the convertible, including the addition of dark headlight treatments, dark tinted rear combination lights, new blackout rear lower fascias and new 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheel designs. Motivating the 370Z Roadster is a 332-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine that can be matched with either a 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters or 6-speed close-ratio manual with SynchroRev Match.
© BMW of North America
BMW 2 Series Convertible
Base MSRP: $42,750
BMW gives its entry-level convertible a refresh for the 2018 model year that includes updated front-end styling with LED headlights, new interior materials and new double-spoke bi-color wheels. Available as either the 230i or the more powerful M240i, the 2 Series convertible features a power-operated soft-top that provides coupelike quietness when in place and completely hidden beneath the rear deck when open. The roof can be opened at speeds up to 30 mph. The 230i is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 248 horsepower, while the sportier M240i gets an M Performance TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine that produces 335 horsepower. Both the 230i and M240i are available with a standard 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission, available xDrive all-wheel drive and an available 6-speed manual with rear-wheel drive.
© Audi of America
Audi TT Roadster
Base MSRP: $47,550
The sporty Audi TT Roadster received fresh new styling a few years ago, including a new fascia with a broader, flatter Singleframe grille and standard LED headlights that tie it closer to its larger sibling, the R8. Powering the TT Roadster is a turbocharged 2.0-liter TFSI 4-cylinder engine that produces 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission is standard, as is Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system. The TT uses an acoustic soft-top that retracts at the touch of a button. The roof can be raised or lowered in a mere 10 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz SLC Roadster
Base MSRP: $48,400
Last year Mercedes-Benz reconfigured (and renamed) its model line, and one result was the SLC replacing the SLK. Like it’s predecessor, the SLC features an electrohydraulic retractable hardtop that can be operated at speeds up to 25 mph. The SLC roadster is available in two trims: SLC 300 and SLC 43 AMG. The SLC 300 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 241 horsepower, while the sportier SLC43 gets an AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter V6 biturbo that produces 362 horsepower — good enough to move this little 2-seater to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. Two special editions of the SLC are offered: the SLC 300 RedArt Edition, finished in Selenite Grey Metallic with Gloss Red exterior accents and 18-inch twin 5-spoke wheels; and the AMG SLC 43 Performance Studio RedArt, finished in designo Selenite Grey Magno with red accents and 18-inch 10-spoke AMG light alloy wheels.
© Audi of America
Audi A5 Cabriolet
Base MSRP: $49,600
Audi’s 4-seat convertible, the A5 received a refresh for 2018 with a wider, flatter Singleframe grille; a lower, longer hood line and a more pronounced wave design shoulder line. The A5 Cabriolet features an acoustic cloth soft-top can be lowered in 15 seconds at speed up to 31 mph with a new one-touch opening function. When opened, the top folds into three layers and stows beneath the trunk space with little effect on cargo capacity. Inside, the A5 Cabriolet offers the same advanced infotainment systems introduced in the coupe and sportback, including the Audi virtual cockpit. Powering the A5 is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, teamed with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet
Base MSRP: $51,200
Along with the most recent redesign of the C-Class, Mercedes added a convertible version to the mix. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet is the first time an open-top C-Class has ever been offered, with five versions available: C300, C300 4MATIC, AMG C43 4MATIC, AMG C63 and AMG C63 S. Engines range from the 241-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder in the C300 to the AMG V8 biturbo engine boasting 503 horsepower in the C63 S. The C-Class Cabriolet design follows that of the Coupe, with a diamond grille, standard LED headlights, a long hood, high beltline and flat LED taillights. The power acoustic cloth soft-top mimics the profile of the coupe and can be lowered in 20 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph. The tightly-stretched soft-top includes a glass rear window and stows in the trunk with an integrated cover for a clean finish when lowered.
© BMW of North America
BMW 4 Series Convertible
Base MSRP: $52,950
BMW introduced the 4 Series 4-seat convertible in 2014, replacing the 3 Series Convertible. The 4 Series has a wider stance than the 3 Series, as well as a longer wheelbase and a 3-piece retractable hardtop. The 4 Series is updated for the 2018 model year, featuring standard bi-LED headlights with optional adaptive full-LED headlights, LED fog lights, LED taillights, a new lower front air intake, a new rear apron and four new wheel designs. The 430i Convertible is powered by the TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, while the 440i Convertible gets a 320-horsepower TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder unit. Both offer a standard 8-speed sport automatic transmission, and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive is optional.
© Porsche Cars North America
Porsche 718 Boxster
Base MSRP: $59,000
The German automaker has a rich history of sports car racing — in 1950s and ‘60s the company campaigned the legendary 718 lightweight mid-engine sports car. In the spirit of that original, Porsche introduced the 718 Boxster. Along with the name change, Porsche’s mid-engine, 2-seat roadster was redesigned for the 2017 model year. This updated roadster is available as the 718 Boxster or 718 Boxster S. A newly-developed 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 300 horsepower in the 718 Boxster, and the S upgrades to a 2.5-liter turbo producing 350 horsepower. The variants feature new chassis tuning and stronger brakes, which should provide great fun on road or track. The Boxster debuted as a 1997 model at a lower price than the rear-engine 911, also powered by horizontally-opposed 6-cylinder engine.
© General Motors
Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
Base MSRP: $59,495
The flagship sports car of the Chevrolet line, the Corvette moved into its 7th generation a few years ago, coinciding with the return of the classic Stingray name. The front-engine, rear-wheel-drive convertible is available with a variety of powertrains ranging from a standard 455-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 to the extreme-performance Z06 that offers a supercharged V8 pumping out 650 horsepower. With the optional Z07 package, the ‘Vette can reach 60 mph in less than 3 seconds. A new 8-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission is available for all versions including the Z06 and is designed to improve both performance and efficiency. For those looking for considerably more wind in their hair, Chevrolet has announced the return of the ZR1 convertible. With 755 horsepower on tap from its supercharged V8 engine, the Corvette ZR1 boasts the highest output ever for a Chevrolet production vehicle and is expected to be able to exceed 200 mph.
© Audi of America
Audi S5 Cabriolet
Base MSRP: $62,300
The high-performance version of Audi’s A5 Cabriolet, the S5 Cabriolet boosts power with a reengineered V6 that produces 354 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Teamed with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the S5 jumps to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds. The standard Audi quattro all-wheel-drive system includes a self-locking center differential, basic 40:60 front/rear torque split and wheel-selective torque control. Optional dynamic steering adjusts the variable steering ratio based on vehicle speed and the Audi drive select setting. The available Audi virtual cockpit features a 12.3-inch display that delivers vibrant color with NVIDIA quad core processing power via three display modes: Classic, Infotainment and Sport.
© Jaguar Land Rover
Jaguar F-TYPE Convertible
Base MSRP: $63,000
Jaguar’s sleek and sexy convertible, the F-TYPE sports a new look, new powertrain options and new standard technology for the 2018 model year. For the first time, the F-TYPE is offered with a 4-cylinder engine: a 296-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter teamed with the 8-speed Quickshift transmission. Peak torque is produced as low as 1500 rpm, helping the 4-cylinder F-TYPE reach 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The F-TYPE continues to be available with supercharged V6 and V8 engine options, including the 575-horsepower F-TYPE SVR. Design updates for 2018 include new full-LED headlights, a new front bumper and new air intakes.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet
Base MSRP: $66,300
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet is all new for the 2018 model year. Utilizing a classic soft-top rather than a heavier, more expensive hardtop, the new E-Class Cabriolet’s multilayered, insulated top keeps the interior quiet even when driving at high speeds. Motivation comes from a powerful yet efficient 3.0-liter biturbo V6 engine, and for the first time the convertible is available with 4Matic all-wheel drive. The top can be raised or lowered in 20 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph, and with the top raised the cabriolet has a similar silhouette to the E-Class Coupe. The E-Class also features the signature Mercedes-Benz AIRSCARF, which circulates warm air near the neck when ambient temperatures drop.
© BMW of North America
BMW M4 Convertible
Base MSRP: $77,200
The high-performance version of the 4 Series, the M4 Convertible joined BMW’s U.S. lineup in 2015. The M4 is powered by a BMW M TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that produces a plentiful 425 horsepower with 406 lb-ft of torque from 1850–5500 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 7-speed M Double Clutch gearbox. The aggressive design features aluminum front fenders and hood for weight savings, and the M4 Convertible shares the folding hardtop with the 4 Series Convertible. The M4 features Adaptive M Suspension as well as the Active M Differential uses data from the stability control, pedal position, wheel rotation, and yaw rate to vary the power distribution between wheels for improved agility and control.
© BMW USA
BMW 6 Series Convertible
Base MSRP: $86,700
The 6 Series Convertible is BMW’s largest luxury open-top car. For 2018 the optional M Sport Package adds an exclusive Carbon Fiber trim package previously available on the M6, new Sonic Speed Blue metallic paint and new 20-inch bi-color M wheels. The 6 Series fabric soft-top has fins that extend toward the rear fenders and a vertical rear window that opens separately. The 650i is powered by the BMW TwinPower Turbo V8 engine that produces 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, teamed with an 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission. The 640i gets BMW’s TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine that produces 315 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, also mated to an 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission. Both 640i and 650i are available with xDrive all-wheel drive.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster
Base MSRP: $88,200
One of the most iconic convertibles of all time, the Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster has a rich history dating back to the 300 SL of the 1950s. Mercedes-Benz updated the SL last year with a revised front end, more powerful engines, a new 9-speed automatic transmission and available Active Body Control with curve tilting function. The new design features a unique diamond grille that extends downward, large lower air inlets and standard LED headlights. Trim levels range from the 362-horsepower SL450 to the extreme SL65 AMG that boasts a hand-built 6.0-liter AMG biturbo V12 that produces 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. The SL features a power hardtop that can operate at speeds up to 25 mph. Unique to the SL is a panoramic glass top that can be electronically lightened or darkened with the touch of a button.
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Porsche 911 Cabriolet
Base MSRP: $103,400
One of the most iconic automotive silhouettes of all time, the Porsche 911 debuted in 1963 and continues today as a benchmark among sports cars. The 911 Cabriolet has been offered every year since 1983 and was redesigned for the 2017 model year with a wider front track and new features such as a new rear axle design, new electro-mechanical power steering, Porsche Torque Vectoring, and enhanced Porsche Active Suspension Management. The new 911 Cabriolet is offered in eight different trim levels ranging from the standard Carrera with a 370-horsepower motor to the Turbo S that receives a 580-horsepower version of the twin-turbo 3.8-liter engine. With full-time all-wheel drive, the 911 Turbo S Cabriolet can sprint to 60 mph in a mere 2.9 seconds with a top speed of 205 mph.
© BMW USA
BMW M6 Convertible
Base MSRP: $122,300
As the high-performance version of the 6 Series, the M6 sports a 4.4-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine that produces 552 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. Drivers can choose between either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic. The M6 Convertible includes M-specific double-bar kidney grilles, M gills in the front fenders, side skirts and forged 19-inch M light-alloy wheels with 20-inch M light-alloy wheels optional.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster
Base MSRP: $124,400
The AMG GT is the flagship sportscar of the Mercedes-AMG lineup, and last year the brand added a roadster to the mix. Two variants are offered — the AMG GT Roadster gets a 4.0- liter biturbo V8 engine that produces 469 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, while the more potent AMG GT C Roadster receives a new version of the 4.0-liter liter biturbo V8 that generates 550 horsepower. Both AMG GT Roadsters utilize the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission to optimize performance. The AMG GT Roadster accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, while the AMG GT C Roadster makes the sprint in just 3.7 seconds. AMG Sport Suspension is standard, and the AMG GT C includes AMG RIDE CONTROL Sport Suspension with adaptive, adjustable damping. The fabric soft-top can be opened or closed automatically in around 11 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet
Base MSRP: $133,300
The first open-top 4-seat S-Class since 1971, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet features all the technology of other S-Class models, as well as a complete system for top-down warmth and wind control. The sleek, elegant design makes for one of the most exclusive S-Class models ever, with a coupe-like profile when the soft-top is closed. The top can be lowered in 20 seconds at speeds up to 35 mph. Inside the new S-Class Cab, technological creature comforts include an enhanced automatic wind protection system called AIRCAP, the AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, heated armrests and heated front and rear seats. Models range from the S560 with its 463-horsepower V8 to the powerful AMG S63 and S65, the latter of which boasts a 621-horsepower turbocharge V12 engine. The three-layer acoustic fabric soft-top is available in four colors and has a high-quality lining in Nappa leather and DINAMICA microfiber.
© Maserati
Maserati GranTurismo Convertible
Base MSRP: $150,340
One of the sexiest drop-tops on the road, the Maserati GranTurismo Convertible entered the U.S. market in 2010. Available in Sport or MC trim, both are powered by a Ferrari-built 4.7-liter V8 engine that produces 454 horsepower as well as one of the best exhaust notes on the road. For 2018 the GranTurismo is slightly refreshed with a new grille, updated bumpers and new air ducts that help reduce aerodynamic drag. Inside is seating for four on Poltrona Frau leather seats with integrated armrests. Also new for 2018 is the high-resolution 8.4-inch touchscreen display as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration and a Harman Kardon Premium Sound system. The GranTurismo Cabriolet also features a revised Skyhook active-suspension system and an upgraded brake package.
© Audi of America
Audi R8 V10 Spyder
Base MSRP: $177,100
Audi introduced an updated version of the R8 for the 2017 model year. The flagship sportscar of the German automaker’s lineup, the R8 Spyder is slightly shorter in overall length but wider than its predecessor by about an inch. With a low, wide stance accentuated by a large honeycomb grille, the R8 dominates the night with available laser lighting for maximum visibility and range — identified by a blue anodized strip in the headlights. Powering the R8 Spyder is a normally-aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine producing 540 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. With Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, the R8 Spyder can sprint to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 198 mph. The R8 Spyder features a cloth top that can be opened in 20 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
McLaren 570S Spider
Base MSRP: $208,800
The McLaren 570S Spider is newest model of the McLaren Sports Series, joining the 570S and 570GT. With a retractable hardtop, the 570S Spider is currently the only convertible available from the British carmaker. At the heart of the 570S is its 3.8-liter twin-turbo McLaren-built V8 engine. Residing behind the passenger compartment, this small V8 generates 562 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Weighing in at 3,300 pounds, the 570S Spider has enough power to leap to 60 mph in a hair over 3 seconds, and blast to a top speed exceeding 200 mph. According to McLaren, the 570S Spider will “only” hit 196 mph with the top down. The luxurious interior has surfaces covered in either leather, Alcantara or carbon fiber. While most would prefer the sound of that V8 exhaust, the 12-speaker 1280-watt Bowers & Wilkins audio system is more than enough for the small cabin.
© Ferrari North America
Ferrari Portofino
Base MSRP: $214,533
The all-new Portofino replaces the aging California, slotting in as the entry-level model in the Ferrari lineup. The Portofino sports the same turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine as the California T; however, the engine has been updated to produce close to 600 horsepower — an increase of almost 50 ponies. Performance is at a level appropriate for a Ferrari — a sprint to 60 mph takes less than 3.5 seconds, while top speed is documented as approaching 200 mph. The Portofino employs a retractable hardtop that not only adds stiffness and security, when closed it creates a sleek fastback style. Ferrari’s new Portofino convertible seats four; however, rear-seat use should probably be limited to short trips.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Aston Martin DB11 Volante
Base MSRP: $216,495
The DB11 Volante is all new for the 2018 model year, the latest in a long line of convertible sports GT cars from the British marque. Powering the DB11 Volante is an AMG-built 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 503 horsepower and 513 lb-ft of torque at a low 2000 rpm. The intake, exhaust and ECU are all built by Aston Martin, which does change the dynamics as well as the sound from a comparable Mercedes-AMG model. The DB11 comes with an impressive array of standard equipment. Some features that can be found on every DB11 Volante include full leather trim, an Alcantara headliner, heated power front seats, a 360-degree surround-view camera, dual-zone climate control and 20-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels. Also standard is an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth audio streaming, navigation system and iPhone integration.
© Automobili Lamborghini
Lamborghini Huracan Spyder
Base MSRP: $219,780
The Lamborghini Huracan Spyder is a version of the Huracan with a lightweight soft-top for open-air driving. Two variants of the Spyder are available — the rear-wheel drive 580-2 and the all-wheel drive 610-4. Both are powered by a 5.2-liter V10 engine; however, output matches the names 580 and 610, respectively. Power for the Spyder is delivered through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and the 610-4 features a new electronically-controlled all-wheel-drive system. The cloth top opens in 17 seconds, and with the top stowed, two fins start behind the seats and run toward the rear of the car to continue the roofline, maintaining the sleek shape and optimizing airflow through the engine compartment.
© Ferrari S.p.A
Ferrari 488 Spider
Base MSRP: $272,700
The Ferrari 488 Spider is the open-top version of the 488 GTB, the latest iteration of Ferrari’s V8-powered mid-engine 2-seat sports car. Since the debut of the 308 GTB in the 1970s, Ferrari has offered a mid-engine V8 sports car and an open-top version since the targa-top 308 GTS. The 488 GTB and 488 Spider continue that tradition, powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine that produces 660 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque, teamed with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. The Spider’s power-retractable hardtop operates in 14 seconds, with two panels stowed behind the seats. The electric glass rear window can be placed in three positions with the top up or down. The 488 accelerates from zero to 62 mph in 3 seconds and reaches 124 mph in 8.7 seconds with a top speed over 200 mph. Driving dynamics get enhanced by F1-Trac traction control, an E-Diff 3 electronic differential, SSC2 side-slip angle control and Magnetorheological suspension control.
© Aston Martin
Aston Martin Vanquish S Volante
Base MSRP: $315,775
The Vanquish is the grand touring flagship of the Aston Martin line, and the S Volante is the ultimate open-top version. With a beautifully sculpted body trimmed in carbon fiber and new quad exhaust outlets, the S Volante looks fast even when standing still. The power lurking under the hood complements the looks — a 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 580 horsepower. The convertible’s ZF Touchtronic III 8-speed automatic transmission has been tuned for faster shifts, and the suspension, dampers, spring rates and anti-roll bars have been set up to give the Vanquish S Volante added performance and handling while retaining the smooth ride expected of a grand touring car. Performance stats are impressive — the Vanquish S Volante can reach 62 mph in 3.5 seconds with a top speed of more than 200 mph.
© Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC
Rolls-Royce Dawn
Base MSRP: $341,125
Dawn is a super-luxury 4-seat convertible that joined the Rolls-Royce lineup as the seventh-generation Phantom was phased out. Dawn is offered as a single model without set trim levels, since nearly every car gets built to individual customer specifications that include tens of thousands of dollars in options. Dawn shares mechanical underpinnings with the Wraith Coupe but is more than just a convertible Wraith; 80 percent of the body panels are unique. The lowered soft-top gets stowed beneath a wooden deck that flows down between the rear seats and throughout the cabin. Powered by Rolls-Royce’s twin-turbo 6.6-liter V12 engine producing 563 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque at 1500 rpm, Dawn is Rolls-Royce’s most powerful full 4-seat drophead offered to date. Inside, the Rolls-Royce Dawn offers an environment of exquisite materials meticulously handcrafted to create an unmatched luxury experience.
© Automobili Lamborghini
Lamborghini Aventador S Roadster
Base MSRP: $460,247
At last fall’s Frankfurt Motor Show, Lamborghini debuted its latest extreme open-top car, the Aventador S Roadster. A futuristic design that has creases and angles in myriad directions, the S Roadster clearly makes a bold statement. Residing behind the passenger compartment is a 6.5-liter V12 engine producing 740 horsepower and 509 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a “robotized” 7-speed gearbox that performs gear changes as quickly as 50 milliseconds. With the quick transmission and powerful engine, the Aventador S will achieve 100 km/h (62 mph) in a mere 3 seconds. In 6 more seconds 124 mph will flash by. With the driver’s right foot planted on the floor, this Aventador will eventually reach 217 mph.
