What Is a Convertible Car?
When you think of a convertible, do you imagine the classic top-down sedans from the 50s and 60s? Well, that’s because those types of cars were prominent during that time period, allowing a whole new generation of drivers to experience driving with fewer boundaries and more freedom.
Convertibles have been around for nearly a century now and have evolved considerably since their inception. These days, convertible cars can be found all over the world and from many different automakers. This guide aims to answer the question: “What is a convertible car?” while explaining how it can benefit your driving needs.
What Makes a Convertible Car?
A convertible car is a type of vehicle that has the capability to be converted between an enclosed and an open-air mode. The first generation of these cars was conceptualized in the late 1920s, in which the initial prototype had a soft top that could be removed.
The modern version of this car is more advanced, with some models having powered retractable tops or folding hardtop roofs. This allows drivers to have the flexibility of driving in either an open or closed environment on their own terms.
What are some benefits of owning a convertible? For starters, drivers enjoy the freedom that convertibles afford. And while driving around with the top down feels great, it’s nice to know that you can put the top back up if it starts raining.
With today’s technology, there is far less manual interaction between the driver and the convertible top than there was with the convertibles of yesteryear. In fact, there are even luxury models available that boast convertible tops.
Another perk is that you can find used convertible cars that are typically cheaper than other high-end vehicles like SUVs or luxury cars. Just be aware that these convertibles often sport soft tops, which aren’t as desirable as hardtop models.
If you want to buy a new convertible car but don’t want to break the bank, there are many viable economy cars that feature convertible tops.
Why Buy a Convertible Car?
A convertible car is a vehicle that can be converted from a closed- to an open-top. Some convertible cars are designed with a removable hardtop, meaning the roof can easily be removed, leaving the car open to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air.
Others come equipped with a soft-top design that easily folds down and up for fast, efficient convenience. If it starts to rain, for example, you can quickly put the top up to keep you and your car’s interior from getting wet.
Convertibles can be found in many different types of vehicles, including sedans, coupes, and even SUVs. With so many different options available, you have the benefit of researching and comparing a wide variety of makes and models. Thus, you have a better chance of finding the most suitable convertible for your needs.
Moreover, there are some fundamental benefits that come with all convertibles, regardless of the model you ultimately decide to go with, such as:
- More interior headroom
- Sleek and stylish design
- Excellent visibility
- Fresh air and sun
- Easy storage
If these sound like the kinds of benefits you want in your new investment, a convertible might be the best option for you. If you’re on the fence and would like to try before you buy, you can always rent a convertible for a time to see if it’s what you want.
You can even rent a high-end convertible and enjoy the amenities that come with driving a luxury vehicle. Be sure to ask what kind of convertibles your rental company offers so you can compare and get the best driving experience possible.
What Types of Cars Are Convertibles?
As you’ve learned thus far, a convertible is a type of car that has a roof that can be removed or retracted. This gives the driver and passengers the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and sunshine while out on the open road. And because convertible tops are designed to return to their enclosed positions, you can still enjoy the open air while being protected from harsh conditions.
In the past, you would have been limited with what convertible vehicle you could find on the market. Today, however, there are many different types of convertibles to consider. You have your standard four-door cars, which offer a more traditional driving experience in a convertible form factor.
You also have roadsters and sporty models available for purchase. There are also plenty of vintage models you can find for sale from previous owners. If you prefer to invest in a new vehicle, many manufacturers offer convertible options, including:
- Bentley Continental GTC
- Chevrolet Camaro
- Rolls Royce Dawn
- Ferrari California
- Mini Cooper SD
- Fiat 124 Spider
- Ford Mustang
- Mazda MX 5
- Cadillac XLR
- Volvo C70
The point is that there are plenty of options when it comes to purchasing a convertible car in the modern era. It’s important to consider your budget and what type of features you want in a convertible. This will make it easier to narrow down the most suitable convertible for your needs.
Choosing the Right Convertible
Convertible cars are typically sports cars and can cost anywhere from $25,000 to $150,000+. These days, there are many different types of convertibles. For example, some convertibles have removable roofs and windows. Others have power tops and others have removable hardtops.
Whatever your needs may be, it’s important to find the right convertible car for you. A good rule of thumb is to think about the style and reliability that you’re looking for in your vehicle.
You should also take into consideration the weather where you live, as well as how often you plan on driving your car. If you live in a cold climate, having a top-down might not make sense for you since it won’t be needed very often.
However, if you change your climate to a warmer one during the cold months or spend most of your time driving through warmer weather conditions, a convertible could work great for you.
It’s also important to consider the type of features you want in your convertible. Some of the most popular convertible cars are luxury convertibles. One of the main benefits of having this type of vehicle is that you can experience the best of two worlds—luxury and open-air driving.
Another big advantage to convertible cars is that they’re great for drivers who live in regions with unpredictable weather. The retractable fabric top lets you avoid adverse conditions while allowing you to enjoy nice temperatures when the weather permits.
Summary
Convertibles are indeed an excellent solution for drivers who prefer more open-air freedom while they drive. You have plenty of different options to consider, so it’s important that you do your homework to narrow down the best make and model for your needs.
If you are interested in test driving a convertible before you buy, we recommend that you rent one first. This will allow you to get a feel for what these cars offer. It’s a driving experience that many drivers don’t get to enjoy, so explore your options here and enjoy the luxuries and benefits that convertibles provide. If you’re ready to rent, Advantage can help
Sources:
Convertible History | BuyAutoInsurance.com
Soft Top Convertible: Everything You Need to Know | Car & Driver
2022 Chevy Camaro Convertible Prices, Reviews, and Pictures | Edmunds
