When it comes to convertibles, everyone tends to think of the same classic names: the Porsche 911 Cabriolet, the Mercedes-Benz SL, and the Mazda MX-5 Miata. But for those in the know, the world of convertibles offers far more excitement than just the usual suspects. Here’s a list of twelve underrated convertibles that’ll have you craving the open road more than a dog craves an open window.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
The legendary two-seat roadster has charmed driving enthusiasts since its debut in 1989. The Miata embodies the pure joy of driving with its lightweight design and excellent handling. With a curb weight of under 2,400 pounds and a nearly perfect 50:50 weight distribution, this nimble sports car offers a responsive and engaging driving experience. Despite its petite size, this feisty roadster delivers a driving experience that’s pure joy. The manual gearbox is as satisfying as popping bubble wrap, making it a delight on twisty roads. The Miata’s reliability is legendary; it’s the trusty steed you can count on for every adventure.
Fiat 124 Spider
The Fiat 124 Spider is the Miata’s Italian cousin who always shows up to the party dressed to impress. Sharing a platform with the MX-5 but adding a dollop of Italian flair, the 124 Spider offers a turbocharged engine that purrs like an espresso machine. It combines stylish looks with agile handling, ensuring you feel like a race car driver even when you’re just zipping to the grocery store. And let’s not forget the interior, which wraps you in a hug of leather and soft-touch materials.
Saab 9-3 Convertible
The Saab 9-3 Convertible is the quirky Scandinavian relative who insists on doing things differently, and you love them for it. Saab’s unique design language means this convertible stands out, and its turbocharged engine provides ample oomph. Safety is a hallmark of the Saab brand, and the 9-3 Convertible is no exception, equipped with advanced features like rollover protection, side-impact airbags, and stability control. The car’s front-wheel-drive layout ensures good handling, while its sporty suspension provides a smooth ride. Despite its luxury touches, the Saab 9-3 Convertible maintains a practical side, offering decent cargo space for a convertible.
Volvo C70
Speaking of Scandinavia, the Volvo C70 is the sensible, safety-conscious Swede who secretly loves to let loose. This hardtop convertible combines Volvo’s renowned safety with an unexpectedly spirited driving experience. The C70 offered both coupe and convertible versions, with the second generation featuring a retractable hardtop roof, seamlessly transforming from coupe to convertible in under 30 seconds. Engine options ranged from a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-5 to a potent 2.5-liter inline-5, delivering a smooth and spirited drive. Inside, you’ll find typical Volvo comfort with plush seats and a sound system that could host a small concert.
Honda S2000
The Honda S2000 is the overachiever who excels at everything and still manages to be incredibly fun. Its high-revving 2.0-liter engine loves to scream up to 9000 RPM, delivering a thrilling ride that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear. With its precise steering and razor-sharp handling, the S2000 feels like an extension of your body. It’s a no-nonsense sports car as reliable as your morning coffee, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Pontiac Solstice
The Solstice featured a sleek, curvy body and a rear-wheel-drive layout to excite the Pontiac lineup. Under the hood, it boasted a 2.4-liter Ecotec inline-4 engine producing 177 horsepower, later complemented by a turbocharged 2.0-liter version in the GXP model, which cranked out a thrilling 260 horsepower. The Solstice’s minimalist interior focuses on the driving experience, while the convertible top folds neatly for those sun-soaked days. It’s a reminder of Pontiac’s commitment to fun before its untimely demise.
Chrysler Crossfire Roadster
The Chrysler Crossfire Roadster is the love child of American muscle and German engineering. Based on the Mercedes-Benz SLK, this convertible combines Chrysler’s bold design with Mercedes’ engineering prowess. The result is a unique, head-turning roadster that offers a smooth, composed ride. Its distinctive boat-tail rear end is a nod to classic car design, while the V6 engine provides ample grunt for a fun drive. It’s like having the best of both worlds in one sleek package.
BMW Z4
The BMW Z4 is a sophisticated European that balances class with excitement. With its long hood and short overhangs, the Z4 looks fast even when parked. BMW’s legendary inline-six engine provides a smooth, potent power delivery, while the rear-wheel-drive setup ensures you can carve up corners with precision. Inside, the Z4’s driver-focused cockpit wraps you in luxury, making every journey a first-class experience. It’s the epitome of refined driving pleasure.
Saturn Sky
The Saturn Sky is the adventurous sibling to the Pontiac Solstice, sharing its platform but adding more flair. With its sculpted lines and aggressive stance, the Sky looks ready to take on the world. The turbocharged Red Line version is particularly spicy, offering impressive performance that’ll leave a smile plastered on your face. Despite its small size, the Sky offers a surprisingly comfortable ride, making it a great companion for both spirited drives and relaxed cruises.
Volkswagen Eos
Named after the Greek goddess of dawn, the Eos brought a touch of elegance and versatility to the compact car market. Its unique feature is a retractable hardtop with an integrated sunroof, giving you the best of both worlds: a coupe’s security and the convertible’s open-air freedom. The Eos offers a refined driving experience with a comfortable interior and a turbocharged, efficient, and peppy engine. It’s the perfect car for those who want a bit of everything in one stylish package.
Lexus SC430
The Lexus SC430 is a posh, smooth-talking luxury cruiser about comfort and style. This hardtop convertible offers a serene ride with a luxurious interior. The V8 engine provides effortless power while the suspension quickly soaks up bumps. The SC430’s elegant design and impeccable will make you love the finer things in life. It’s like driving a luxury yacht on wheels.
Mercedes-Benz SLK
The Mercedes-Benz SLK is the charming German who’s always impeccably dressed and ready for a good time. The SLK transforms from a coupe to a convertible with its retractable hardtop. The SLK’s performance is as polished as its looks, with a range of engines that offer everything from efficient cruising to spirited driving. The interior boasts premium materials and advanced infotainment systems, emphasizing comfort and connectivity. With its agile handling, robust performance, and timeless design, the Mercedes-Benz SLK remains a standout choice for enthusiasts seeking a blend of style and driving dynamics in a compact luxury convertible.
