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Convertibles are undoubtedly different gravy. Imagine a warm sunny day, with the feeling of a cool breeze in your face and a smooth twisty road that opens up ahead. Whether you prefer a modern folding hardtop or a traditional canvas roof, convertibles deliver an open-air driving experience and freedom that you can't replicate. Not even with the largest of hardtop sunroofs.
However, regardless of shape or size, convertibles are often criticized for riding less smoothly and weighing more than the hardtop models, not to mention usability when the weather turns sour. Still, the best convertibles do well to minimize these drawbacks while maximizing everything else that makes them a blast. The convertible sports cars in this list are not just well-rounded and usable, but they also possess an irresistible charm that makes them the best of the rest in the market.
10 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The MX-5 Miata might be considered a staple in its segment, but this iconic Mazda has a devoted fan base and a rich heritage that stretches back more than 30 years. And in all that while, the MX-5 has always delivered a fun-to-drive performance, arguably its most vital character attribute.
Mazda offers the MX-5 Miata in either a power-folding hardtop RF model or a soft-top convertible, both with a tight cabin that fits two. Under the hood is a 2.0-liter inline-four engine, capable of pushing out 181hp and 151lb-ft of torque. Besides its cheerful demeanor, the MX-5 Miata is a popular pick since it offers one of the cheapest ways to get into a convertible.
9 Audi A5
Audi introduced the A5 as a sportier, more sophisticated take on the A4 model, available as a four-door Sportback hatchback, two-door coupe, or convertible. The seductive Audi A5 convertible is a genuine four-seater drop-top swathed in premium interior materials, and it deservedly sits at the top of the A5 hierarchy.
Audi fitted the A5 with a multi-layered hood that opens in 15 seconds with one button push and closes in 18 seconds at speeds up to 31mph. The Audi A5 boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine and a mild hybrid system that combine to deliver 261hp and 237lb-ft of torque. The unit is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, connected to a permanent Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
8 BMW Z4
The luxury BMW Z4 sports car was born after BMW partnered with Toyota, and it has since become a remarkable blend of fun and class with one of the best-handling capabilities. When the Z4 returned in 2019 after a short two-year hiatus, it arrived with a soft-top rather than the standard retractable hardtop. The soft top takes about 10 seconds to stow at speeds up to 31mph, and it soundproofs the cabin from road noise nearly as well as a regular steel roof.
The cabin is snug but comfortable enough for two adults, decked out with likable standard comforts and good connectivity features. BMW offers the Z4 with a 255hp 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine or an optional 382hp 3.0-liter inter-cooled DOHC inline-six, all available with an eight-speed automatic.
7 Chevrolet Camaro
Although Chevrolet offers its two-door pony car as a coupe or convertible, the drop-top is more relaxed and laid-back for cruising. The Camaro convertible rides on GM's excellent Alpha platform, placing it in a superior league to its competition regarding handling, poise, and pure driving pleasure.
The Camaro boasts a slew of engines, including a 275hp 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder, a mid-range 335hp 3.6-liter V-6, and a potent 455hp 6.2-liter V8. The ZL1 trim offers a venomous 650hp supercharged V8, backed by a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic. The Camaro convertible is a strong contender, mostly because it feels less like a muscle car and more like a sports car, with impressive European handling characteristics to match.
6 Porsche 718 Boxster
Convertibles are a driver's romantic way to enjoy the open road, and the 718 Boxster takes it a step further with its stylish drop-top Porsche looks, engaging driving demeanor, sharp handling, and eager nature. In addition, the 718 Boxster boasts a form-fitting cabin that is a bit light on frivolity but delivers all the features expected of a luxury performance convertible.
The Porsche 718 Boxster is available with a 300hp 2.0-liter turbo flat-four or a 350hp 2.5-liter turbo flat-four, while a 394hp 4.0-liter flat-six is reserved for the top-ranking trim levels. Although most drivers long for 911 ownership, the 718 has been a stellar option that sets a high bar for luxury convertibles.
5 Lexus LC500
Chopping off the roof of a vehicle can sometimes be a disaster, but Lexus did a remarkable job with the flagship LC500. The sultry convertible is a showstopper, not only for the mesmerizing exterior styling but also for the superior Lexus comfort and interior detailing.
Even more impressive, the Lexus LC500 Convertible has the performance to back up the good looks. Power comes from a 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated V-8 that Lexus paired with a 10-speed automatic to develop 465hp and 398lb-ft of torque. Despite its 4,540lb curb weight, the LC500 justifies its place among the best with its well-balanced nature and agile handling.
4 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Mercedes-Benz made the E-Class the epitome of sophistication through its classy appearance, up-to-date technology, and an elegant cabin that matches all manner of upper-class lifestyles. For 2021, the sizeable four-seater E-Class Convertible received the same updates as the sedan and estate models, meaning updated technology and enhanced visual dynamism.
Besides the facelift, the E-Class Convertible gained a polished 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, augmented with the 48-volt EQ Boost mild-hybrid system that delivers a combined 362hp and 369lb-ft of torque. Although it's considered an extravagant purchase, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a one-of-a-kind convertible that seamlessly blends fun, proficient performance, and classy styling.
3 Mercedes-AMG C63
The Mercedes-AMG C63 is based on the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and it's a standout performer with the ability to blow almost everything else on the road. The current fourth-generation C63 model is living on borrowed time, but its stunning exterior styling and sporty, refined interior make it a formidable competitor in the segment.
Part of the Mercedes-AMG C63's appeal also stems from its 469hp 4.0-liter bi-turbo V-8, not forgetting the handcrafted AMG 503hp 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 available in the C63 S. The powerful C63 convertible is a desirable pick because its ability to blend entertainment and performance is beyond reproach. Furthermore, its four-cylinder delivers a unique sense of character in a segment currently filled with high-performance cars.
2 BMW 8-Series
Whether you choose the 840i, the M840i xDrive, or the full-on M850i xDrive, the 8- Series still flaunts a commanding curb appeal. BMW reintroduced the 8-Series as the more upmarket replacement for the old 6 Series, and it rides on the same platform as the 7 Series sedans. The BMW 8-Series appeals to owners who desire an open-top tourer that combines luxury with a degree of driving fun.
The 840i models house a 335hp 3.0-liter turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, while the top-spec M850i xDrive boasts a 523hp 4.4-liter turbocharged V-8. The BMW 8 Series is rapid, comfortable, and easy to drive for hours on end, making it one of the best grand-touring luxury convertibles on the market.
1 Porsche 911 Turbo S
From its Coke bottle shape to the circular headlights and sloping rump, the Porsche 911 has impressively preserved all the essential elements that made it an icon. The Turbo S comes with a 3.7-liter turbocharged flat-six and an eight-speed PDK transmission that deliver a whopping 640hp and 590lb-ft of torque.
With a 205mph top speed and a 2.7 second 0-60mph time, the Porsche 911 Turbo S is undoubtedly one of the best performance convertibles on the market. Still, its ability to remain poised and placid makes it an excellent daily driver for suburban errands, urban trawling, or any other daily routine where velocities sometimes sink to a crawl.