© Mazda North American Operations, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover North America, Mercedes-Benz USA
The Call of the Mild
Do the first warm days of spring conjure daydreams of sweet freedom on the open road in a new convertible? Even if winter is still wreaking havoc in many parts of the nation, there’s no reason to shake off those open-air dreams since sunnier weather is surely on the horizon. And if you’re imagining yourself behind the wheel of a new drop-top, you’re in luck — the U.S. car market offers more than 40 options 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 convertibles to discover the best fit for your budget and your lifestyle.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
smart fortwo cabrio
Price: TBA
Following its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show and its U. S. debut in Detroit, the redesigned smart fortwo cabrio is scheduled to arrive in the U.S. market this summer. The soft-top offers three different configurations, with the roof fully closed like a coupe, open partway like a large sliding sunroof, or completely open like a cabriolet. The soft-top can be fully opened in 12 seconds at any vehicle speed. The new fortwo cabrio adopts the design of the coupe, but with a narrower B-pillar. Powered by the same 89-horsepower 3-cylinder engine as the coupe, the cabrio is offered with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a twinamic dual-clutch unit.
© FCA US LLC
Fiat 500c
Price: Starting at $20,345
The 500c is the convertible version of Fiat’s subcompact 500, which combines Italian styling with efficiency and technology, featuring a dual-layer power cloth top available in Nero, Bordeaux or Beige, complete with wind deflector and an integrated rear spoiler. The 500C comes in three versions: Pop, Easy and Lounge. The 500c Easy is new for 2016 and includes a unique interior with premium cloth seats, a 7-inch high definition cluster display, a premium audio system, 15-inch aluminum wheels, and the new Uconnect 5.0 system, which includes a 5-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth capability and integrated voice command. The Fiat 500c is powered by a 101-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter MultiAir engine with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic. The 500c Abarth is powered by a 160-horsepower version of the turbocharged 1.4-liter MultiAir engine, also paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 6-speed automatic transmission.
© FCA US LLC
Jeep Wrangler
Price: Starting at $23,895
The Jeep Wrangler has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most iconic vehicles on the road. Although not typically considered a convertible, the Wrangler’s top does come off this go-anywhere 4X4. In fact, Wrangler’s doors can also be removed and the windshield folded down for the ultimate in open-air motoring. Available as the classic 2-door or larger 4-door Unlimited, the Wrangler comes in a variety of trims, including the new-for-2016 Black Bear edition and the special Willys edition. All Wranglers are powered by FCA’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine putting out 285 horsepower and plenty of low-end torque — a necessity for extreme off-roading. With a front and rear 5-link suspension system, live axles and electronic lockers, the Wrangler remains one of the most capable off-road vehicles available.
© 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; the all-new fourth generation 2016 MX-5 went on sale last summer. 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, making it 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 $25,490
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. For 2016 the Beetle Dune joins the lineup, inspired by classic Baja Bugs with new bumpers, side moldings, wheels and a raised ride height. The Beetle Dune Convertible goes on sale in the third quarter of 2016. The special edition Beetle Denim — a tribute to the Beetle Jeans versions from the 1970s — is also offered as a convertible with denim-color cloth seating, white piping and dark blue leatherette accents.
© BMW of North America
MINI Cooper Convertible
Price: Starting at $25,950
The redesigned 2016 MINI Cooper Convertible goes on sale in March of 2016. The MINI John Cooper Works Convertible joins the lineup as the fastest, most powerful convertible ever from MINI, powered by a turbocharged MINI TwinPower 2.0-liter engine that produces 228 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The MINI John Cooper Works also includes sport exhaust, sport suspension tuning and aerodynamic upgrades. The base convertible is powered by a turbocharged MINI TwinPower 1.5-liter engine 3-cylinder engine that produces 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, while the Cooper S is powered by a turbocharged MINI TwinPower 2.0-liter engine that produces 189 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard with a 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission optional. The MINI Convertible features an “Always Open Timer” that calculates the number of hours driven with the top down.
© Ford Motor Company
Ford Mustang
Price: Starting at $29,300
The latest-generation Mustang debuted for 2015, including a new convertible with a lower, wider stance; a lower roof height; wider rear fenders and a 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. For the 2016 model year California Special and Pony packages are added, and the Mustang GT adds turn signal indicators integrated into the hood vents. 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: TBA
The redesigned 2016 Chevrolet Camaro receives a new look that is more sculpted and taut, which makes the new car look lower and wider than the previous model, and a convertible version continues to be offered. The new Camaro convertible features a multi-layer soft-top that mimics the shape of the Camaro 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 and can be opened remotely with the key fob. The 2016 Camaro is offered in LT and SS models with two trim levels for each model, and the RS package offered for the LT. A new 275-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder is the standard engine for LT, with a new direct-injected 335-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine optional. The SS is powered by the 455-horsepower 6.2-liter LT1 small-block V8 engine introduced on the Corvette.
© Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Volkswagen Eos
Price: Starting at $31,995
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. After announcing that 2015 would be the final year of production and producing the 2015 Eos Final Edition, Volkswagen decided to continue the Eos for the 2016 model year. Standard equipment includes dual-zone climate control, a 12-way power adjustable driver’s seat, V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Standard technology includes a touchscreen navigation system, VW Car-Net connected car suite, a Media Device Interface with an iPod cable, and Bluetooth technology with audio streaming.
© General Motors
Buick Cascada
Price: Starting at $33,065
The 2016 Buick Cascada is an all-new 2+2 convertible with HiPer Strut front suspension based on a MacPherson strut design, and a standard 200-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The power soft-top includes thermal and acoustic insulation and can be lowered in 17 seconds at speed up to 31 mph. Standard equipment includes leather seating, heated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot, Buick IntelliLink with 7-inch diagonal touchscreen, HID articulated headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights and 20-inch aluminum wheels with bi-color finish. Cascada is the first Buick convertible for the U.S. market in 25 years.
© Audi of America
Audi A3 Cabriolet
Price: Starting at $35,600
When the Audi A3 was redesigned for 2015, the open-top cabriolet was added 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.
© BMW of North America
BMW 2 Series Convertible
Price: Starting at $38,650
The BMW 2 Series Convertible was new for the 2015 model year, 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 6-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.
© 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 370Z Roadster’s top is designed to create a sleek silhouette that matches the styling of the 370Z coupe, whether the top is up or down. 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 Roadster
Price: Starting at $46,400
Audi’s front-engine 2-seat convertible, the TT Roadster is all-new for 2016 with more focus on the elements of a true sports car. The new design ties the TT closer to the R8 front fascia with a broader, flatter Singleframe grille and standard LED headlights, while retaining signature elements from the original design including the exaggerated wheel arches that push into the hood cutline, round exhaust tips and prominent gas filler door. The TT Roadster is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter TFSI 4-cylinder engine that produces 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission with quattro all-wheel drive. The new quattro all-wheel-drive system varies the amount of torque delivered to the front and rear axles based on measuring traction at all four wheels 150 times per 10 milliseconds. For the first time quattro can be controlled by the Audi drive select system, and when in dynamic mode more power gets delivered to the rear wheels.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class
Price: TBA
On sale in the spring of 2016, the brand-new 2017 Mercedes-Benz SLC is a 2-seat roadster with a retractable hardtop. Replacing the SLK in the model lineup, the SLC300 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque; the Mercedes-AMG SLC43 gets power from an AMG 3.0-liter V6 biturbo that produces 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission is standard for both versions. Features include aluminum trim parts with a carbon fiber finish, a new instrument cluster design and a new sport steering wheel.
© Audi of America
Audi A5 Cabriolet
Price: Starting at $47,900
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. For 2016 a red acoustic convertible top is available.
© BMW of North America
BMW 4 Series Convertible
Price: Starting at $50,000
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 gets power from a 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 $49,700
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 a TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Z4 sDrive35i gets a 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 receives power from 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 model 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 $60,395
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 a 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. Last year the ZO6 returned, 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 Cabriolet
Price: Starting at $61,100
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. A red acoustic convertible top is available on the 2016 model.
© 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 engine. The E550 Cabriolet is powered by a 402-horsepower biturbo 4.7-liter V8. 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 North America
Jaguar F-TYPE Convertible
Price: Starting at $68,100
The F-TYPE is Jaguar’s 2-seat sports car that joined the Jag lineup alongside the larger 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 engine 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 $63,900
The 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. For 2016 an available carbon fiber trim package includes interior vents, instrument cluster surround and shift bezel. A new premium leather interior has Tobacco and Black sport seats, black interior and Tobacco accent stitching.
© BMW of North America
BMW M4
Price: Starting at $72,500
The high-performance version of the 4 Series, the M4 Convertible joined the M4 Coupe last 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 Convertible.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
Price: TBA
One of the most iconic convertible of all time, the Mercedes-Benz SL roadster has a rich history that dates back to the 300 SL of the 1950s. On sale in spring 2016, the new 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL receives a revised front-end design, 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. The 2017 SL is offered as the SL450 and SL550, as well as the Mercedes-AMG SL63 and SL65. The SL450 is powered by a biturbo 3.0-liter V6 engine that now produces 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque starting at 2000 rpm. The SL550 receives a biturbo 4.7-liter V8 that produces 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The SL450 and SL550 use the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed transmission. 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; the SL65 AMG gets power from 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 $84,800
The BMW 6 Series Convertible was updated 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.
© Porsche Cars North America
Porsche 911
Price: Starting at $101,700
One of the most iconic sports cars 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 is redesigned for the 2017 model year; it is longer and lower with a wider front track than the previous model, with 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: Carrera, Carrera S, Carrera GTS, Carrera 4, Carrera 4S, Carrera 4 GTS, Turbo and Turbo S. The new Carrera Cabriolet and Carrera 4 Cabriolet are powered by a new 370-horsepoewr twin-turbo 3.0-liter horizontally-opposed 6-cylinder engine, and the Carrera S and Carrera 4S receive a 420-horsepower version of the twin-turbo 3.0-liter engine. The Carrera GTS and Carrera 4 GTS are powered by a 430-horsepower 3.8-liter engine. The 911 Turbo Cabriolet has a 540-horsepower twin-turbo 3.8-liter, and the Turbo S Cabriolet receives a 580 horsepower version of the twin-turbo 3.8-liter engine.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet
Price: TBA
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. The intelligent climate control is fully automatic and the driver does not need to choose a different mode when the top is open or closed. The high-performance Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet is powered by the 585-horsepower AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine with AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive; it will accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds. For the ultimate in open-top motoring, the new Mercedes-AMG S65 Cabriolet adds to the Mercedes V12 lineup, powered by an AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine that produces 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, combined with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission. The three-layer acoustic fabric soft-top is available in four colors and has a high-quality lining in Nappa leather and DINAMICA microfiber.
© BMW of North America
BMW M6
Price: Starting at $119,700
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.
© 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 derives power from 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, a 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 Martin 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 features 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 without the 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. A new Handling Speciale option has stiffer springs, new damper settings and a new exhaust system with two primary pipes and silencers; the exhaust note increases with engine speed.
© Bentley Motors
Bentley Continental GT Convertible
Price: Starting at $236,100
The Bentley Continental GT Convertible was updated last year with new exterior features, including a new front bumper, smaller grille, more pronounced fenders, front fender vents that incorporate 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 gets added to the 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 488 Spider
Ferrari 488 Spider
Price: Starting at $275,000
With its world premiere in Frankfurt last September, Ferrari’s new 488 Spider is the open-top version of the 488 GTB that debuted last spring in Geneva. Since the debut of the 308 GTB in the 1970s, Ferrari has offered a V8-powered, mid-engine, 2-seat 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 combined 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 different 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 are enhanced by F1-Trac traction control, E-Diff 3 electronic differential, SSC2 side slip angle control and Magnetorheological suspension control.
© Perry Stern
Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 Spyder
Price: Starting at $267,545
Also debuting last September in Frankfurt, the Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 Spyder is the new version of the Huracan with a lightweight soft-top for open-air driving. Powered by the same 610-horsepower 5.2-liter V10 engine as the coupe, the Huracan Spyder will accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds and achieve a top speed of 201 mph. Power for the Spyder is delivered through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and 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.
© 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 with 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 in less than 17 seconds while driving. 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 $305,650
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.
© Automobili Lamborghini
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. The Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce Roadster debuted last August at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, during the Monterey Motoring Week in August.
© 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. Rolls-Royce announce that 2016 will be the final year for the current Phantom, and the Phantom Coupe and Drophead Coupe will not be produced in the future. To commemorate Phantom Coupe and Drophead Coupe production, a special collection of only 50 cars will be produced, called Phantom Zenith.
