Driving a sports car is one of life's great pleasures. Shifting gears, testing the engine, and feeling the wind in your hair all join forces in uniting man and machine.
But a sports car without a retractable roof is like a steak without seasoning: Filling, but bland.
So if money were no object, what sports car would you pick for your costal drive down Highway 1? In no particular order, here are our choices for the 13 best convertibles ever made.
1
Mazda Miata
As the ultimate affordable sports car over the years, a Miata isn’t a Miata without the top down.
2
Cadillac Eldorado
With its long body and iconic flares, there’s nothing better for cruising down the boulevard.
3
Jaguar E-Type
Jaguar’s classic sportscar might be fine as a coupe, but putting the top down adds a whole new level to the experience.
4
Porsche Boxter
As the entry level Porsche, a soft top feels necessary for the driving experience. And what a driving experience it is.
5
Ferrari California Spyder (1960-1962 250 GT SWB)
One of the classic convertibles of all time, you’d be hard pressed to find a cooler ride. And that V-12…
6
Lotus Elan
This nifty little British sportscar looks good, handles good, and has the world’s cutest headlights.
7
Aston Martin DB4
Not many rides are cooler than a DB4, and putting the top down makes things even better.
8
Honda S-2000
One of the greatest Japanese sports cars ever made is even better with no roof.
9
Porsche 911
Although Porsches look great as coupes, they really come alive when the top comes down. I’m aware that just saying “911” is a wide range of vehicles, but other than the GT2 and GT3, they all work with the top down.
10
Corvette (The Older the Better)
Corvettes are meant for fun, and that means putting the top down. The older the better too, so we’ll go with the 1959.
11
Ferrari F-50
Compared to your average super car, the F-50 was commonly sold in its top-down form. Why wouldn’t one of the great cars ever made be on this list?
12
Bugatti Mistral
Of course Bugatti makes the world’s fastest convertible, and I feel compelled to add it to this list for that reason. But in practice, why would you ever want the top down when you’re going that fast?
13
PT Cruiser
Just kidding. The most embarrassing car ever made, in a format where everyone can see your face? No thank you.
