© Mazda North American Operations
Sunny Delight
There’s nothing on four wheels quite like a convertible for experiencing the sweet freedom of the open road on a warm summer day. Currently there are more than 40 new-car choices for open-air motoring, ranging from the budget-conscious and somewhat practical to the ultra-luxurious and extremely exotic. So take a look at these drop-tops to discover the best fit for your budget and your lifestyle.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
smart fortwo
Price: Starting at $17,930
A 2-passenger microcar designed for city use where parking is always at a premium, the smart fortwo passion cabriolet features a power convertible top with a glass rear window. The cloth top can be black, blue or red. The fortwo cab is available with either an electric drive or a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine. A redesigned smart fortwo is coming for the 2016 model year.
© FCA US LLC
Fiat 500C
Price: Starting at $20,345
The 500C is the convertible version of Fiat’s subcompact 500, featuring a dual-layer power cloth top available in Nero, Bordeaux or Beige, complete with wind deflector and integrated rear spoiler. The Fiat 500 1957 Edition was originally offered in 2014 to commemorate 57 years of the 1957 Nuova Cinquecento, and for 2015 the 1957 Edition is offered as a convertible as well, featuring sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch forged aluminum wheels, retro body colors and retro Fiat badges. The 2015 Fiat 500c has an innovative instrument panel with a 7-inch high-definition display. The Fiat 500C Abarth is powered by a 160-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter MultiAir engine, and a 6-speed automatic transmission is now offered.
© Mazda North American Operations
Mazda MX-5
Price: Starting at $24,915
The Mazda MX-5 roadster, also known as the Miata, is the most successful convertible of all time and the all-new fourth generation 2016 MX-5 goes on sale in summer 2015. Since the launch of the first Miata in 1989, more than 950,000 MX-5s have been sold worldwide. The 2016 MX-5 incorporates Mazda SKYACTIV technology for improved performance and more efficiency, and adopts the KODO—Soul of Motion design to bring a modern look to the classic roadster. The new MX-5 is approximately 150 pounds lighter than its predecessor and promises to be lightweight, nimble and fun to drive. The 2016 MX-5 is powered by a 155-horsepower SKYACTIV- G 2.0-liter engine combined with a standard SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual transmission.
© Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Volkswagen Beetle
Price: Starting at $25,595
The contemporary Volkswagen Beetle is designed as a modern interpretation of Volkswagen’s most iconic model. The New Beetle joined the lineup for 1998 and the convertible version was added for the 2003 model year. The Beetle was redesigned for 2012 and continues to offer a convertible model powered by a 170-horsepower 1.8-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, a 150-horsepower 2.0-liter TDI, or a 210-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine in the R-Line. The current Beetle Convertible is longer, lower and wider than its predecessor.
© BMW of North America
MINI Cooper Convertible
Price: Starting at $25,700
The MINI Cooper Convertible is the open-top version of the small hatchback produced by BMW. For 2015 the MINI Cooper is redesigned and available in both 3-door and 5-door versions, while the MINI Cooper Convertible continues to be built on the previous generation’s platform. The base convertible is powered by a 121-horsepower 1.6-liter engine with a standard 6-speed manual transmission, and the Cooper S is powered by a 181-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter unit. The MINI Cooper Convertible has a power cloth soft-top with a glass rear window. The front portion of the top can be retracted like a sunroof without putting the entire top down.
© BMW of North America
MINI Roadster
Price: Starting at $26,100
The MINI Roadster is the 2-seat open-top MINI sold alongside the 2-seat MINI Coupe . It’s a new take on the open-top sports car with a manually-operated soft-top. The MINI Roadster is powered by a 121-horsepower 1.6-liter engine with a standard 6-speed manual transmission, and the S Roadster is powered by a 181-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter powerplant.
© Ford Motor Company
Ford Mustang
Price: Starting at $29,300
The Ford Mustang is redesigned for 2015 and includes a new convertible with a lower, wider stance, lower roof height, wider rear fenders and wider track. The convertible features a multilayer insulated top that lowers twice as fast as the previous model and has a sleeker profile when folded. Mustang is offered with three different engine choices — a standard V6 and two performance options: a turbocharged EcoBoost four cylinder and a 5.0-liter V8. The 3.7-liter V6 produces 300 horsepower and the 2.3-liter EcoBoost produces 310 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque at 2500 rpm. The Mustang GT is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 435 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.
© General Motors
Chevrolet Camaro
Price: Starting at $31,205
The all-new 2016 Camaro Coupe was unveiled in Detroit in May, but the new convertible hasn’t been seen yet. The current Camaro design was updated for 2014, and the 2015 model year is the last one for the fifth-generation Camaro. The convertible is available in LT, SS and ZL1 trims. The LT is powered by a 323-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 and the SS is powered by a 426-horsepower 6.2-liter V8. The ZL1 Convertible features a 580-horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter V8, making it the most powerful production Camaro ever. The 2015 Camaro Commemorative Edition is available for LT and SS convertibles and includes special 20-inch wheels, a unique stripe, a body-color front splitter, ZL1 rear spoiler and Commemorative Edition fender badges.
© Audi of America
Audi A3 Cabriolet
Price: Starting at $35,600
Redesigned for 2015, the A3 adds the open-top cabriolet for the U.S. market, sporting a power-folding cloth top and available Audi quattro all-wheel drive. Two turbocharged, direct-injection engines are available: the 1.8 TFSI, which produces 170 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque; and the 2.0 TFSI, which produces 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to the S Tronic 6-speed Dual-Clutch automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes leather seating surfaces, xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights and dual-zone automatic climate control.
© Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Volkswagen Eos
Price: Starting at $36,145
A classy 4-seat convertible, the Eos features a power-retractable hardtop that has an integrated power tilt-and-slide panoramic glass sunroof. The EOS has a standard 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine combined with a 6-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. For the final year of production, the 2015 Eos Final Edition is offered and includes 18-inch Vicenza wheels, Cornsilk Beige and black two-tone Vienna leather seating surfaces, contrast stitching, silver net interior trim, a rearview camera and rain-sensing wipers.
© BMW of North America
BMW 2 Series Convertible
Price: Starting at $38,850
The BMW 2 Series Convertible is new for 2015, joining the 2 Series Coupe as the replacement for the 1 Series in the U.S. market. The 2 Series is available in 228i and M235i versions with the 228i powered by a 240 horsepower 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine. The M235i is powered by an M Performance TwinPower Turbo inline six-cylinder engine that produces 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque between 1400 and 4500 rpm. Both the 228i and M235i are available with either a standard 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission or an available 6-speed manual transmission.
© Nissan North America, Inc.
Nissan 370Z
Price: Starting at $41,820
Nissan’s 2-seat sports car, the 370Z boasts a 332-horsepower version of the Japanese automaker’s award-winning 3.7-liter V6 engine, combined with either a 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Downshift Rev Matching, or a 6-speed manual transmission with available SynchroRev Match. The 350Z coupe joined the Nissan lineup for 2003 — seven years after the last 300ZX — as a modern version of the original 240Z. The Roadster was added for the 2004 model year. The 2016 370Z is already on sale.
© Audi of America
Audi TT/TTS Roadster
Price: Starting at $43,350
Audi’s front-engine two-seat convertible, the TT Roadster has AFS aluminum construction for a rigid lightweight design that improves both performance and efficiency. TT Roadster is powered by a 2.0-liter TFSI engine that produces 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and standard quattro all-wheel drive. The TTS Roadster receives a power boost to 265 horsepower and adds Audi magnetic ride, Nappa leather seats, adaptive xenon headlights and Bose audio system.
© Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Lexus IS C
Price: Starting at $43,360
The Lexus IS C premium luxury coupe has a retractable hardtop that morphs into a convertible in 20 seconds. The IS convertible is offered in four different versions: the IS 250, which is powered by a 204-horsepower 2.5-liter V6 engine; the IS 250 F SPORT, which features track-tuned handling upgrades; the IS 350, which is powered by a 306-horsepower 3.5-liter V6; and the IS 350 F SPORT. A 6-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard with both engines.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class
Price: Starting at $43,950
Mercedes-Benz’s smaller 2-seat roadster, the SLK-Class was the first Mercedes model (and the first convertible on the market) to feature a power-retractable hardtop when it debuted as a 1998 model. For 2015 the SLK is offered as the SLK250 powered by the 1.8-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that produces 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque; the SLK350 powered by the 3.5-liter V6 that produces 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque; and the SLK55 AMG, powered by a 5.5-liter V8 engine that produces 415 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque.
© Audi of America
Audi A5 Cabriolet
Price: Starting at $47,600
Audi’s beautiful A5 coupe is also available a 4-seat convertible, and equally attractive with the top down or up. The A5 Cabriolet gets its motivation from Audi’s 2.0 TFSI engine producing 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, combined with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with quattro all-wheel drive. Leather seats, xenon headlights, LED running lights, LED taillights, 3-zone automatic climate control and an Audi concert audio system are all standard. The acoustic power-folding roof can be raised or lowered when the A5 is in motion at speeds up to 31 mph.
© Nissan North America, Inc.
Infiniti Q60
Price: Starting at $48,550
Infiniti’s luxury performance drop-top, the Q60 Convertible employs a three-piece retractable hardtop. The car gets Nissan’s award-winning 3.7-liter V6 engine producing 325 horsepower, combined with either a 7-speed automatic transmission with available magnesium paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual transmission. A Q60 IPL Convertible is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 rated at 343 horsepower, combined with 7-speed automatic transmission with Downshift Rev Matching and quick-shift Drive Sport (DS) mode with magnesium paddle shifters and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). It also features an IPL-tuned suspension and Sport brakes.
© BMW of North America
BMW 4 Series Convertible
Price: Starting at $48,750
The 4 Series is BMW’s 4-seat convertible that replaced the 3 Series Convertible in the fall of 2013 as a 2014 model. The 4 Series is wider than the outgoing 3 Series with a longer wheelbase and features a 3-piece retractable hardtop. The 428i Convertible is powered by the TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, and the 435i Convertible is powered by the TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder unit. Both offer a standard 8-speed sport automatic transmission. BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive is optional.
© BMW of North America
BMW Z4
Price: Starting at $49,250
A long hood, low beltline, long wheelbase and short rear deck combine to create the low-slung profile of BMW’s 2-seat roadster, the Z4. Its power-retractable hardtop can be lowered at cruising speeds up to 25 mph, and stows in a compact package in the trunk. The Z4 sDrive28i has the TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four cylinder engine that produces 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Z4 sDrive35i gets the TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque . The Z4 sDrive35is obtains its motivation from a higher-output version with 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque.
© Porsche Cars North America
Porsche Boxster
Price: Starting at $52,100
Porsche’s 2-seat mid-engine roadster , the Boxster debuted as a 1997 model at a lower price than the rear-engine 911 — also powered by horizontally-opposed 6-cylinder engines. For 2013 the Boxster received a chassis that was lighter, longer and wider than the previous version. The car has four versions for the 2016 model year: Boxster, Boxster S, Boxster GTS and Boxster Spyder. The Boxster is powered by a 265-horsepower 2.7-liter flat six-cylinder engine; the Boxster S has a 315-horsepower 3.4-liter flat six; the Boxster GTS bumps to 330 horsepower from the 3.4-liter unit. The Boxster Spyder is the most powerful Boxster to date, with a 375-horsepower 3.8-liter engine. It’s designed for lighter weight and high performance with no radio, no air-conditioning and a manually-operated top.
© General Motors
Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
Price: Starting at $59,000
The seventh-generation Corvette Stingray debuted as a 2014 model, bringing back the Stingray name in both convertible and coupe versions. The new Corvette Stingray is powered by a LT1 small block 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 455 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. When combined with the new 7-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Match technology, the Corvette Stingray achieves EPA estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg city/29 mpg highway. For 2015 the ZO6 returns, also available as a convertible, powered by a 650-horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine. A new 8-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission is available for all models including the Z06, and is designed to improve both performance and efficiency.
© Audi of America
Audi S5/RS 5 Cabriolet
Price: Starting at $60,900
The Audi A5 drop-top also has two high-performance versions: the S5 Cabriolet and the RS 5 Cabriolet. The S5 Cabriolet is powered by a supercharged 3.0 TFSI V6 engine that produces 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission with quattro all-wheel drive. The S5 receives sport-tuned suspension, Nappa leather seats, a 3-spoke multi-function flat-bottom sport steering wheel, steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles, aluminum windshield trim and quad exhaust outlets. The S5 exterior trim includes a Platinum Gray Singleframe grille, aluminum-optic side mirrors and an integrated rear spoiler. The RS 5 Cabriolet gets power from a 450-horsepower 4.2-liter V8 FSI engine combined with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission with quattro all-wheel drive and a sport differential. The RS 5 Cab also includes RS 5 exterior appearance, RS 5-tuned suspension, 12-way power front sport seats and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet
Price: Starting at $62,250
The 2016 E-Class Cabriolet is Mercedes-Benz’s 4-seat premium luxury convertible. The E-Class Cabriolet and Coupe were added for 2011 after the CLK was dropped in 2009. The E400 Cabriolet replaces the E350 Cabriolet, and is powered by a 329-horsepower biturbo 3.0-liter V6. The E550 Cabriolet is powered by a 402-horsepower biturbo 4.7-liter V8 engine. Both engines are combined with a 7-speed automatic transmission that adapts to the driver’s driving style and includes shift paddles for manual gear changes. An available Sport Package adds a manual shift mode.
© Jaguar Land Rover Limited
Jaguar F-TYPE Convertible
Price: Starting at $68,100
The F-TYPE is Jaguar’s new 2-seat sports car that joined the Jaguar lineup alongside the larger Jaguar XK as a 2014 model. The 2016 F-TYPE went on sale in spring 2015 with the addition of Instinctive All Wheel Drive as standard equipment on the F-TYPE R, and an available 6-speed manual transmission with V6 rear-wheel drive. The F-TYPE R is now available as a convertible, powered by supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 550 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque delivered through the standard all-wheel-drive system. The standard F-TYPE Convertible is powered by a 340-horsepower supercharged V6 with rear-wheel drive and automatic or manual transmission. The F-TYPE S is powered by a 380-horsepower supercharged V6 with rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission, or AWD with an automatic transmission.
© FCA US LLC
Alfa Romeo 4C Spider
Price: Starting at $68,400
The new open-top version of Alfa Romeo’s 2-seat mid-engine sports car, the 4C Spider features a lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum chassis. The body is made entirely of SMC (sheet molded compound) — a low-density, high-strength composite material that is 20 percent lighter than steel but more rigid. Power comes from a turbocharged 1.75-liter engine with dual intercoolers that produces 237 horsepower. The 4C Spider is estimated to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and reach a top track speed of 160 mph. The car goes on sale in the U.S. this summer, with the specially-equipped Launch Edition. The U.S. pricing for 4C Spider beyond the Launch Edition has not been announced, and Alfa Romeo only plans to sell 400 per year in the U.S.
© BMW of North America
BMW M4
Price: Starting at $72,500
The high-performance version of the 4 Series, the M4 Convertible joins the M4 Coupe later this summer for the U.S. market. The M4 gets a new BMW M TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that produces 425 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque from 1850-5500 rpm, combined with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission. The Active M differential is standard, and Adaptive M suspension is optional. The aggressive design features aluminum front fenders and hood for weight savings, and the M4 Convertible shares the folding hardtop with the 4 Series.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
Price: Starting at $84,000
One of the most iconic convertible of all time, the Mercedes-Benz SL 2-seat roadster is worthy of its rich history that dates back to the 300 SL of the 1950s. Today’s Mercedes-Benz SL features a power-retractable hardtop with a standard Panorama roof and sliding sunshade, while the MAGIC SKY CONTROL allows the driver to darken the glass panel electronically. The SL is offered in four different versions with four different bi-turbo engines. The SL400 is powered by a 329-horsepower biturbo 3.0-liter V6 engine; the SL550 is powered by a 402-horsepower biturbo 4.7-liter V8 engine; the SL63 AMG is powered by a hand-built 5.5-liter AMG biturbo V8 that produces 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque; and the SL65 AMG is powered by a hand-built 6.0-liter AMG biturbo V12 that produces 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque.
© BMW of North America
BMW 6 Series
Price: Starting at $84,100
The BMW 6 Series Convertible gets updates for 2015 with a new front end design and standard Adaptive Full-LED headlights. The 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 that produces 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, combined with an 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission. The 640i is equipped with BMW’s TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine that produces 315 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, also mated to an 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission.
© Jaguar Land Rover Limited
Jaguar XK
Price: Starting at $90,500
The XK is Jaguar’s 4-seat grand touring convertible, offered in XK, XKR and XKR-S versions. The XK Convertible has a 385-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine, and the XKR is powered by a 510-horsepower supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine. The 2015 model year will be the last year of production for the Jaguar XK.
© Porsche Cars North America
Porsche 911
Price: Starting at $96,200
The Porsche 911 is the rear-engine sports car that debuted in 1963 and continues today as a benchmark among sports cars. The 911 Cabriolet has been offered every year since 1983, and for 2015 it is offered in eight different trim levels: Carrera, Carrera S, Carrera GTS, Carrera 4, Carrera 4S, Carrera 4 GTS, Turbo and Turbo S. The Carrera and Carrera 4 are powered by a 350-horsepower 3.4-liter horizontally-opposed 6-cylinder engine, and the Carrera S and Carrera 4S are powered by a 400-horsepower 3.8-liter horizontally-opposed sixer. The Carrera GTS and Carrera 4 GTS bump the 3.8-liter six cylinder up to 430 horsepower. The Turbo Cabriolet is powered by a 520-horsepower twin-turbo 3.8-liter horizontal six and the Turbo S Cabriolet has 560 horsepower.
© BMW of North America
BMW M6
Price: Starting at $118,700
As the high-performance version of the 6 Series, the M6 sports a 4.4-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine that produces 560 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, combined with 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.
© Audi of America
Audi R8 Spyder
Price: Starting at $129,400
Audi’s two-seat, mid-engine supercar also offers an open-top version: the R8 Spyder, with a power-operated soft-top and a retractable rear window. The R8 V8 Spyder gets a 430-horsepower 4.2-liter V8 engine combined with either a 6-speed manual transmission with quattro all-wheel drive, or a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission with quattro all-wheel drive. Standard equipment includes 19-inch wheels with staggered width front and rear, adaptive suspension and an automatic rear spoiler. The R8 V10 Spyder has a 525-horsepower 5.2-liter V10 engine available with either transmission choice. The R8 V10 Carbon Spyder increases to 550 horsepower, adds a ceramic brake package and reduces weight by adding carbon fiber elements including engine compartment trim, door sills, spoiler, diffuser and mirrors.
© Aston Martin
Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster
Price: Starting at $132,495
A modern Aston Martin sports car with classic Aston Martin style, the V8 Vantage Roadster comes in two different versions: V8 Vantage and V8 Vantage S. The V8 Vantage is powered by a 420-horsepower 4.7-liter V8 engine combined with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a new 7-speed SportShift II automatic transmission. The V8 Vantage S adds 10 additional horsepower and track-inspired features, including a carbon fiber front splitter, revised side sills, revised decklid and new 19-inch wheels.
Maserati
Maserati GranCabrio
Price: Starting at $145,740
The open-top version of the GranTurismo, the Maserati GranCabrio gets motivation from a 444-horsepower 4.7-liter V8 engine. The GranCabrio Sport is the top performance trim of the GranCabrio line, featuring 454 horsepower, a 6-speed transmission that includes a faster shifting MC Auto Shift mode and a more aggressive appearance. The GranCabrio Sport also includes a revised Skyhook active-suspension system and an upgraded brake package. The GranCabrio MC upgrades with a sportier, aggressive look while maintaining Maserati’s signature performance, handling and ride characteristics.
© Aston Martin
Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster
Price: Starting at $196,495
The Aston with the highest performance ever produced, the V12 Vantage S Roadster houses a 565-horsepower 6.0-liter V12 engine combined with a 7-speed SportShift III automated manual transmission developed from the Aston Martin GT racing program. The V12 Vantage S features carbon fiber detailing, including the grille and hood vents. This car’s focus is on performance, but inside the V12 Vantage S exudes luxury and craftsmanship with its sumptuous use of color, surface and pattern.
Newspress Ltd
Ferrari California T
Price: Starting at $198,973
Ferrari’s front-engine, V8-powered California T has a power-retractable hardtop. The Ferrari California debuted as a 2009 model and was designed as a modern version of the Ferrari California Spyder of the late 1950s and early 1960s. The new California featured design cues from the original car, such as the long hood, short decklid and hood scoop. The California was updated for 2015 with a new grille, headlights and hood sans hood scoop. The name was changed to California T to reflect the new 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 553 horsepower and 557 lb-ft of torque with a standard 7-speed manual transmission.
Bentley Motors
Bentley Continental GT Convertible
Price: Starting at $236,100
The Bentley Continental GT Convertible is updated for 2015 with new exterior features including a new front bumper, smaller grille, more pronounced fenders, front fender vent that incorporates a metallic “B” and front fender badges for the V8 S and W12 that match the badge of the GT Speed. At the rear, the trunk lid is more aerodynamic, the rear bumper is wider and a new diffuser is added for V8 S and Speed. The Continental GT Convertible continues to be offered in W12, V8, V8 S and Speed versions. The 6.0-liter W12 increases to 582 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque, and fuel economy improves by 5 percent with a variable displacement system.
Ferrari North America
Ferrari 458 Spider
Price: Starting at $263,553
The Ferrari 458 Spider is the open-top version of Ferrari’s V8-powered mid-engine sports car. Ferrari has produced a mid-engine V8-powered car every year since the original 308 GTB in the 1970s. The Ferrari 458 Spider is powered by a 562-horespower normally-aspirated 4.5-liter V8 engine and features a power-retractable top that stows under a cover behind the seats.
© McLaren Automotive
McLaren 650S Spider
Price: Starting at $280,225
The McLaren 650S is the core model of the McLaren Super Series, designed to provide the enthusiast driver the right combination of luxury and track-level performance for the street. The 650S is powered by McLaren’s award-winning 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 641 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. The 650S Spider is the open-top version that features an electric retractable hardtop that can be raised or lowered while driving, in less than 17 seconds. The 650S Spider provides the same level of performance and handling as the 650S Coupe; the carbon fiber MonoCell chassis requires no additional strengthening to provide the necessary rigidity for the open-top version.
© Aston Martin
Aston Martin Vanquish Volante
Price: Starting at $301,295
The Aston Martin Vanquish is the grand touring flagship of the Aston Martin line, and the Volante is the open-top version. Aston Martin says the Vanquish represents the height of Aston design, engineering, technology and craftsmanship. The Vanquish Volante has a 568-horsepower 6.0-liter V12 engine combined with a Touchtronic III ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. Thousands of color and material options allows buyers to customize the interior to their personal preferences.
Lamborghini Aventador Roadster
Lamborghini Aventador Roadster
Price: Starting at $441,600
The open-top version of Lamborghini’s most extreme high-performance exotic car, the Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster is powered by a 700-horsepower 6.5-liter V12 engine mounted longitudinally behind the driver. The Aventador delivers power to all four wheels through a 7-speed automated manual gearbox that features three manual shift modes and two automatic shift modes. The Aventador Roadster adds a power rear window, a wind deflector and an engine cover with sectioned hexagonal glass plates.
© Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd
Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe
Price: Starting at $479,775
The Phantom line debuted in 2003, and the open-top Drophead Coupe was revised for 2013 with updates in design, drivetrain and technology. The PDC is a contemporary yet timeless design that is unmistakably Rolls-Royce — it even features unique rear-hinged doors. The Phantom Drophead Coupe Waterspeed Collection was created to celebrate Sir Malcolm Campbell’s water-speed record in 1937, and was displayed on the concept car green at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
© Porsche Cars North America
Porsche 918 Spyder
Price: Starting at $845,000
The Porsche 918 Spyder is Porsche’s super sports car developed around a hybrid drivetrain, with a close link to racing technology and insight gained from the Porsche race cars for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The development team focused on building a highly efficient but powerful hybrid drive system that combines a combustion engine and electric motor on the rear axle, a second electric motor on the front axle, and all the power controlled by an intelligent management system with five modes: E-Power, Hybrid, Sport Hybrid, Race Hybrid and Hot Lap. The internal combustion engine is a 4.6-liter V8 that produces 608 horsepower and delivers power to the rear axle through a parallel hybrid system that incorporates an electric motor. Independent all-wheel drive delivers power to the front axle from an electric motor, with the torque independently controlled for each axle.
I was surprised at how ordinary the $400,000 2003 Rolls-Royce looked. Maybe the value is not in its’ looks but with what’s under the hood.