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The power dynamics of Genoa City are about to be rewritten as a hidden player steps out from the shadows with a force that no one expected. Cane Ashby, long considered a secondary figure in the grand games of the Newmans and Abbotts, has been revealed to possess a secret power that makes him a formidable threat. This revelation was not a matter of chance; it was carefully orchestrated by Phyllis Summers, who has once again proven herself to be the master of chaos. Phyllis, recognizing the potential in Cane that others had overlooked, has effectively “ignited” him, channelling his resources and his resentment into a weapon that she can use to her own advantage. Together, they have started a war that is described as “unstoppable,” a conflict that doesn’t just aim for corporate takeover but for the total destruction of their enemies’ social and financial foundations. Cane’s secret power appears to be a combination of international connections and a deep, untapped reservoir of strategic brilliance that he has kept hidden for years. As they launch their first salvos, the established powers of Genoa City are caught completely off guard. Victor Newman, usually the one holding all the cards, finds himself facing a challenge he didn’t see coming. Jack Abbott, already weakened by his own legal troubles, is in no position to defend against this new threat. The war that Phyllis and Cane have started is not one that can be settled with a simple handshake or a boardroom vote. It is a scorched-earth campaign that threatens to leave everyone in its path in ruins. The partnership between the tech-savvy Phyllis and the enigmatic Cane is a dangerous alliance that could permanently change the face of the city. As the conflict escalates, it becomes clear that there may be no survivors in this war for total dominance.
The Ultimate Open-Air Machines: A Decade of Driving Excellence in Top Convertibles
For a decade now, my career has been immersed in the automotive world, particularly in understanding what makes a car truly resonate with enthusiasts and collectors. While horsepower figures and acceleration times are critical metrics, there’s an intangible allure to the convertible – a promise of freedom, a visceral connection to the environment, and an unapologetic celebration of driving pleasure. This isn’t just about dropping the top; it’s about experiencing the symphony of the road, the scent of the air, and the unadulterated joy of open-air motoring. Over the years, I’ve seen trends shift, technologies evolve, and countless models grace showrooms, but certain convertibles have cemented their place in automotive history, embodying the pinnacle of design, performance, and sheer driving bliss.
This curated selection delves into the best convertibles ever made, focusing on those that not only delivered exceptional driving dynamics but also captured the imagination of a generation. We’ll explore models that redefined their segments, offered groundbreaking engineering, or simply provided an unforgettable experience behind the wheel. From the charming British roadsters that sparked a global phenomenon to the thunderous American icons and the sophisticated European exotics, these machines represent the zenith of open-air automotive achievement. Prepare to rediscover some of the most coveted and celebrated classic convertibles for sale, and understand why these vehicles continue to command respect and desire among discerning drivers and collectors.
The Timeless Elegance: 1955 MG MGA
When the MG MGA debuted in 1955, it was a revelation. Gone was the somewhat utilitarian stance of its predecessors; in its place stood a sleek, aerodynamic form that was undeniably a sports car. The MGA, particularly in its convertible guise, was designed to be appreciated as a cohesive whole – a rolling sculpture that offered an intimate connection with the driving experience. The initial models, produced from 1955 to 1956, featured a modest but robust 1489cc four-cylinder engine, delivering around 72 horsepower and 77 pound-feet of torque. While these figures might seem modest by today’s standards, they were more than adequate for the MGA’s relatively light construction and intended purpose. Paired with a four-speed manual transmission, it offered a delightfully engaging drive.
The performance was characterized by a 0-60 mph time of around 15.9 seconds and a top speed just over 100 mph. This wasn’t about outright blistering speed, but rather about the qualitative feel of the drive. Road & Track, in a 1957 review, aptly described it as “a true 100-mph sports car,” praising its well-built chassis and the sheer thrill it provided. Later iterations, like the Twin Cam MGA introduced in 1958, offered more power, but often came with reliability caveats. However, the original MGA’s charm lay in its straightforward engineering, its beautiful lines, and the pure, unadulterated fun it offered – making it a cornerstone for any discussion of iconic convertibles. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its design and the pure driving joy it imparts, a sentiment echoed by collectors seeking vintage sports car convertibles.
The Epitome of American Cool: 1957 Ford Thunderbird
Ford’s response to the burgeoning sports car market, the 1955 Thunderbird, arrived not as a direct competitor to the Corvette’s raw performance, but as a more sophisticated, stylish alternative. The ’57 model, in particular, perfected this blend of sportiness and luxury. Designed from the outset as a two-seater, it offered the choice of a folding fabric top or a distinctive removable hardtop, enhancing its versatility. It was a car designed to be noticed, to be cruised in, rather than to be aggressively raced. This emphasis on style and presence quickly cemented its status as a cultural icon.
Underneath its stylish exterior, the Thunderbird offered potent performance, especially with the available Y-block V8 engines. The 312ci V-8 option, producing a formidable 300 horsepower and 439 pound-feet of torque, transformed the Thunderbird into a genuinely quick machine. With a four-speed manual transmission, it could achieve 0-60 mph in a brisk 7.8 seconds and cover the quarter-mile in 16.1 seconds, reaching a top speed of 121 mph. While not track-focused, its robust V8 power and relatively light chassis made it a peppy and enjoyable car to drive. The Thunderbird embodied a spirit of leisurely enjoyment, perfectly captured by the Beach Boys’ iconic lyrics. It represents a golden era of American automotive design and remains a highly sought-after American classic convertible, a prime example of luxury convertibles that defined an era.
America’s Sports Car Reimagined: 1962 Chevrolet Corvette
Chevrolet has a long tradition of alliterative naming, but when they introduced their two-seat roadster in 1953, they named it after a nimble warship – the Corvette. This moniker proved remarkably apt, as this car, far from being a ponderous vessel, was designed for speed and agility, quickly becoming America’s premier sports car. While the early Corvettes laid the groundwork, the 1962 model year marked a significant evolutionary leap, especially concerning its powerplant.
The 1962 model year saw the introduction of the legendary 327 cubic inch small-block V8, with the top-tier Ramjet version churning out an impressive 360 horsepower and 352 pound-feet of torque. This was a substantial upgrade, pushing the Corvette firmly into performance territory. Mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, this fiberglass masterpiece could sprint from 0-60 mph in a stunning 5.5 seconds, conquer the quarter-mile in 14.1 seconds, and reach a top speed of 147 mph. The Corvette’s cultural impact was further amplified by its starring role in the popular 1960s television show “Route 66,” where it became synonymous with adventure and freedom. The ’62 Corvette, with its potent V8 and iconic styling, stands as a pivotal model in the lineage of performance convertibles and a cornerstone of American automotive heritage, representing the pinnacle of Chevrolet classic cars.
The “Most Beautiful Car Ever Made”: 1967 Jaguar E-Type Series I
For many, the Jaguar E-Type Series I is the quintessential convertible. Its stunningly svelte bodywork, penned by Malcolm Sayer, captivated a generation and continues to inspire automotive designers today. This iconic machine graced the garages of celebrities and was immortalized in popular culture, most notably in the Austin Powers films as the “Shaguar.” Beyond its aesthetic prowess, the E-Type was a performance machine designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience.
The Series I E-Type, particularly the 1967 iteration, was powered by Jaguar’s smooth and potent 4.2-liter inline-six engine. This powerplant produced a respectable 265 horsepower and 283 pound-feet of torque, enabling the car to achieve 0-60 mph in approximately 6.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 147 mph. While it garnered a reputation for being somewhat temperamental mechanically, its sheer beauty and performance were undeniable. Even Enzo Ferrari famously declared it “the most beautiful car ever made.” MotorTrend, in their evaluation, acknowledged the car’s finicky nature but celebrated its “fussy and fantastic” character, labeling it a “bucket list car.” The E-Type, a true European sports car convertible, remains an object of desire for those seeking automotive artistry and thrilling performance, a definitive example of luxury sports car convertibles.
The Apex Predator of Muscle: 1970 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible
The 1970 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda is widely regarded as one of the most potent and desirable muscle cars ever produced, and its convertible variant elevates this status to legendary proportions. The allure of these limited-production machines is amplified by their extreme rarity; only 15 Barracuda convertibles equipped with the monstrous 426 HEMI engine were built in 1970. For enthusiasts seeking the ultimate in collectible muscle, a four-speed manual transmission version represents an even rarer prize, with only one in four of these HEMI convertibles so equipped.
This HEMI ‘Cuda was a force to be reckoned with. Its 426 HEMI V-8 engine unleashed an earth-shattering 425 horsepower and a colossal 490 pound-feet of torque. This immense power translated into blistering performance: 0-60 mph in a mere 5.7 seconds and a quarter-mile time of just 14 seconds, with a top speed capable of exceeding 117 mph. While many classic muscle car convertibles were produced in higher numbers, the scarcity of the HEMI ‘Cuda convertible, alongside other rare icons like the 1969 Hemi Coronet R/T and the 1971 Pontiac GTO Judge 455, speaks to a deliberate desire for raw, untamed power. The thrill of driving such a machine, feeling the acceleration rip through you as you approach triple-digit speeds, is an intrinsic part of the convertible experience, making the HEMI ‘Cuda a pinnacle American muscle car convertible and a highly sought-after collectible convertible.
The “Last American Convertible” Illusion: 1976 Cadillac Eldorado Fleetwood
While many convertibles are engineered for spirited drives on winding roads, the Cadillac Eldorado Fleetwood occupies a different echelon – the land yacht, designed for effortless cruising and commanding presence. Any Cadillac convertible of this era exudes a certain swagger, but the 1976 Eldorado holds a unique place in automotive lore. Marketed as “the last American convertible,” this designation, though ultimately proven incorrect, imbued the model with a special significance, leading to a surge in demand.
This particular Eldorado featured a colossal 500 cubic inch V-8 engine, producing 190 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. While not a performance benchmark by modern standards, its substantial displacement provided smooth, effortless power for cruising. Paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, it offered a relaxed driving experience, achieving 0-60 mph in 12.7 seconds and a top speed of 110 mph. Cadillac produced approximately 14,000 units, including a limited run of 200 special “Bicentennial Edition” models. Many buyers acquired these cars as investments, and a class-action lawsuit followed Cadillac’s reintroduction of the Eldorado convertible in 1984. Regardless of the market fluctuations, the ’76 Eldorado remains a celebrated luxury American convertible, a testament to American automotive excess and a cherished piece of automotive history. It highlights the enduring appeal of classic American convertibles designed for comfort and style.
Hollywood Iconography: 1985 Ferrari 308 GTS Quattrovalvole
The allure of a Ferrari, especially an open-top model, is undeniable. For many, selecting the “best” is an exercise in subjective adoration. However, the Ferrari 308 GTS, immortalized by Tom Selleck’s character in the popular TV series “Magnum P.I.,” holds a special place in the hearts of many. While earlier 308 GTS models were used, the final two seasons featured the upgraded GTS Quattrovalvole.
The Quattrovalvole, meaning “four valves” per cylinder, was introduced in 1982 to restore performance lost due to emissions regulations in previous GTSi models. This iteration of the 308 GTS featured a 2.9-liter V-8 engine, producing 240 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. Combined with a five-speed manual transmission, it accelerated from 0-60 mph in approximately 5.9 seconds and could reach a top speed of 154 mph. While the ’81 GTSi, famously driven by Christie Brinkley in “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” also has a strong claim to fame, the Quattrovalvole’s extra horses and improved performance earn it a distinguished spot. This Italian sports car convertible embodies the dream of exotic motoring and remains a highly desirable Ferrari convertible, representing the pinnacle of exotic car convertibles and a cornerstone of European sports car collecting.
The Definitive 911 Experience: 1987 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet G50
Porsche boasts a lineage rich with exceptional convertibles, making the definitive “best” a challenging, often personal, distinction. However, the 1987 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, particularly with the G50 transmission, stands out as a remarkable achievement. Car and Driver famously declared it, “unquestionably the finest Porsche ever built,” a bold statement that underscores its significance.
The 911, a design icon since its 1964 debut, retained its fundamental silhouette for decades. The Carrera’s reintroduction in the early 1980s brought enhanced performance, but the 1987 G50 model was particularly noteworthy for its inclusion of a five-speed gearbox. This evolution refined the driving experience significantly. Powered by a 3.2-liter flat-six engine, it delivered 214 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. With the G50 transmission, it achieved 0-60 mph in about 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 146 mph. This particular Cabriolet is a quintessential representation of the 1980s, a vehicle favored by a generation that aspired to success and embraced a vibrant lifestyle. It remains a highly sought-after German sports car convertible, a prime example of classic Porsche models, and a benchmark for modern classic convertibles.
Unleashed Fury: 2001 Dodge Viper RT-10
When Dodge first introduced the Viper in 1991, it was a raw, untamed beast – a thunderous American roadster that demanded respect and skillful handling. By the second generation, Dodge had refined this potent machine, enhancing its power while significantly improving its safety with features like anti-lock brakes and airbags. For many enthusiasts, these second-generation Vipers represent the ideal balance of monstrous performance and improved drivability.
The 2001 Dodge Viper RT-10 convertible is often cited as the year Dodge truly perfected their iconic creation. A key improvement was the relocation of the side exhaust pipes to a rear configuration, which not only enhanced the driving experience by reducing cabin heat but also unlocked an additional 35 horsepower from the colossal 8.0-liter V-10 engine, bringing its output to a staggering 450 horsepower and 490 pound-feet of torque. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, this beast could launch from 0-60 mph in an astonishing 4.3 seconds and conquer the quarter-mile in 12.4 seconds, with a top speed of 168 mph. While the sheer presence of a Viper often overshadows its driver, the experience of piloting this V-10 convertible is utterly unique. It remains a benchmark for American performance convertibles, a true supercar convertible, and a highly desirable example of modern muscle cars.
The Ultimate Speed Machine: 2012 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse
No discussion of the best convertibles would be complete without acknowledging the undisputed king of speed. The 2012 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse stands as a monumental achievement in automotive engineering, holding the record for the fastest production convertible ever built. The Veyron’s name itself is a tribute, honoring French Grand Prix racer Pierre Veyron, while the “16.4” signifies its 16 cylinders and four turbochargers, and “Vitesse,” French for speed, perfectly encapsulates its raison d’être.
This hypercar isn’t just about straight-line speed; it’s a symphony of cutting-edge technology and unparalleled performance. While specific 0-60 mph and quarter-mile times for the Vitesse are often overshadowed by its top-speed prowess, it consistently redefines the boundaries of what’s possible in an open-top vehicle. This Bugatti represents the absolute zenith of automotive ambition, offering an experience that transcends mere transportation and enters the realm of the extraordinary. It is the ultimate expression of hypercar convertibles and the undisputed champion in the category of fastest convertibles, a true technological marvel for those seeking the absolute pinnacle of performance in an open-air package.
These ten convertibles, each a legend in its own right, represent more than just metal, rubber, and engine displacement. They are invitations to a unique way of experiencing the world, to feel the wind in your hair, and to connect with the road in a way that only an open-top machine can provide.
If the allure of these iconic open-air machines has ignited your passion, and you’re considering adding one of these remarkable vehicles to your collection or simply wish to explore the current market for convertibles for sale, we encourage you to take the next step. Contact us today to discuss your interests and let our expertise guide you towards finding your dream convertible.
