Top 10 Convertibles 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the best overall convertible for 2027 because it delivers the purest open-air driving joy per dollar, starting at $34,000. Its 181-horsepower 2.0-liter engine and featherweight chassis make it thrilling at legal speeds, hitting 0-60 mph in about 6.4 seconds. The manually operated soft top is a one-handed marvel, and the rear-wheel-drive chassis offers sublime steering feel and balance.

This roadster is for the enthusiast who prioritizes engagement over outright pace and practicality. It trades away trunk space, with only 4.6 cubic feet, and a snug cabin that may not suit taller drivers. Compared to the Porsche 718 Boxster below it, the Miata is far less powerful and premium, but it is also less than half the price. For drivers who value connection and simplicity above all, it remains the benchmark.

2. Porsche 718 Boxster

The Porsche 718 Boxster ranks second because its mid-engine layout provides near-perfect weight distribution and telepathic handling that few cars can match. The base turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four produces 300 horsepower and sprints to 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds, while the GTS 4.0 offers a 394-horsepower naturally aspirated flat-six. Its power soft top drops in about 9 seconds, and front and rear trunks provide surprising practicality. Build quality and resale value are exceptional.

This is the connoisseur's choice for drivers who want a premium badge and razor-sharp dynamics without the compromises of a hardcore track car. It trades away the Miata's bargain price and simplicity, but offers far more performance and prestige. Compared to the BMW Z4 below, the Boxster has sharper steering and a more focused feel, though its options can inflate the price quickly. It is a superb daily driver for those who can afford it.

3. BMW Z4

The BMW Z4 takes third place for its unique blend of roadster fun and grand-touring comfort, with the M40i now offering a six-speed manual and a 382-horsepower turbocharged inline-six. This combination delivers 0-60 mph in about 4.2 seconds, making it both quick and engaging. The entry sDrive30i uses a 255-horsepower turbo four for a more relaxed experience.

This roadster is for buyers who want a car that can handle a long commute or a weekend trip without sacrificing open-top thrills. It trades away the Boxster's razor-sharp steering and mid-engine balance for a more compliant ride and a more luxurious interior. Compared to the Corvette below, the Z4 is less extreme but more refined and easier to live with daily. It is a versatile choice that excels as an everyday roadster.

4. Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible

The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible ranks fourth because it offers supercar acceleration for a fraction of the price, with its 6.2-liter V8 producing 490 horsepower. With the Z51 package, it hits 0-60 mph in about 2.9 seconds, a figure that rivals cars costing three times as much. Its power retractable hardtop stows in about 16 seconds and provides coupe-like refinement when closed. Front and rear trunks make it a practical road-trip machine.

This convertible is for buyers who want maximum performance and a dramatic presence without paying exotic-car prices. It trades away the Z4's everyday comfort and the Boxster's delicate balance for raw power and a wide, low stance that takes adjustment in town. Compared to the Mustang below, the Corvette is significantly faster and more exotic but also more expensive and less practical. It is the performance bargain of the list.

5. Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible

The Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible is our Best Value pick because it offers a genuine four-seat layout and 315 horsepower for just $37,000. Its turbocharged 2.3-liter engine provides strong torque through a 10-speed automatic, and the GT version adds a 486-horsepower V8. The insulated soft top powers down in about 10 seconds, and the cabin features a modern digital cockpit. It undercuts every comparable European convertible by tens of thousands of dollars.

This car is for buyers who need real rear seats and a usable trunk, making it a practical daily driver that can carry friends or gear. It trades away the Corvette's supercar pace and exotic feel for a heavier, more comfortable ride that is easier to live with. Compared to the BMW 4 Series below, the Mustang is far cheaper and more powerful, but its interior quality and refinement are not as high.

6. BMW 4 Series Convertible

The BMW 4 Series Convertible ranks sixth for its refined blend of four-seat practicality and premium all-weather capability. The 430i uses a 255-horsepower turbo four, while the M440i adds a 386-horsepower inline-six with mild-hybrid assist for a 0-60 mph time of about 4.6 seconds. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with xDrive all-wheel drive available for year-round confidence.

This convertible is for buyers who want a luxurious, comfortable drop-top that can serve as a primary vehicle in any season. It trades away the Mustang's raw value and V8 muscle for a more polished, tech-rich cabin and a smoother ride. Compared to the Mercedes CLE below, the 4 Series is slightly less luxurious but more engaging to drive. It is a versatile choice that balances comfort and capability.

7. Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet

The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet ranks seventh because it prioritizes open-air luxury and four-season traction, with standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The CLE 300's 255-horsepower turbo four with mild-hybrid assist is smooth, while the CLE 450's 375-horsepower inline-six sprints to 60 mph in about 4.4 seconds. Its acoustic soft top opens in about 20 seconds at speeds up to 37 mph, and available neck-level heating extends top-down season.

This car is for buyers who value comfort and refinement over sporty handling, and who need all-weather capability for daily use. It trades away the 4 Series' sharper dynamics for a more luxurious ride and a more elegant interior. Compared to the Porsche 911 Cabriolet below, the CLE is far less expensive and more practical, but it lacks the 911's legendary driving dynamics. It is the ultimate open-air luxury cruiser.

8. Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet

The Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet ranks eighth because it sacrifices almost nothing to lose its roof, offering the iconic 911's brilliant dynamics in open-top form. Its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six makes 388 horsepower and propels it to 60 mph in about 3.9 seconds. The power soft top raises or lowers in about 12 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph, and all-wheel-drive variants are available. It rides, handles, and stops like a true sports car.

This is for buyers who want a do-anything icon that serves as a daily driver, grand tourer, and weekend toy without compromise. It trades away the CLE's luxury and four-seat practicality for sharper performance and a more focused driving experience. Compared to the Lexus LC 500 below, the 911 is more agile and faster, but it is also more expensive and has less interior flair. It is the no-excuses choice for purists.

9. Lexus LC 500 Convertible

The Lexus LC 500 Convertible ranks ninth for its glorious naturally aspirated V8 and stunning design, offering a grand-touring experience unlike any other. Its 5.0-liter V8 produces 471 horsepower and sings to a high redline, driving the rear wheels through a 10-speed automatic for a 0-60 mph time of about 4.6 seconds. The power soft top drops in about 15 seconds, and the hand-finished interior is a work of art.

This convertible is for buyers who want a beautiful, serene, and reliable grand tourer to enjoy on long journeys rather than a track weapon. It trades away the 911's agility and performance for a more comfortable ride and a more opulent cabin. Compared to the MINI Cooper below, the LC 500 is vastly more powerful and luxurious, but it is also far more expensive and less practical. It is a car to keep for a decade.

10. MINI Cooper Convertible

The MINI Cooper Convertible ranks tenth as the stylish, affordable city drop-top, offering four seats and a tiny footprint for just $34,600. The base Cooper makes 161 horsepower, while the Cooper S steps up to 201 horsepower with a 0-60 mph time of about 6.7 seconds. Its front-wheel-drive layout and go-kart handling make it fun in urban environments, and the quick power soft top retracts in about 18 seconds.

This car is for city dwellers who want open-air fun and four seats without the bulk of a larger convertible. It trades away the LC 500's power and luxury for a more playful, economical, and practical package. Compared to the Miata at the top of the list, the MINI is less pure and less engaging, but it offers more seats and a more modern cabin. It is the most accessible way to enjoy top-down motoring.

How we ranked these

We scored every car on six weighted factors: open-top driving joy (30%), performance (20%), value (15%), top mechanism and refinement (15%), daily usability (10%), and reliability (10%). Data came from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, KBB, U.S. News, and manufacturer pressrooms, using base MSRPs excluding destination. We prioritized the subjective experience of roof-down driving because a convertible that isn't fun with the top down has missed its purpose.

We deliberately ignored brand prestige, subjective styling preferences, and options-laden pricing that inflates real-world costs. We also excluded raw horsepower as a dominant metric, recognizing that a lightweight, well-balanced car like the Miata often delivers more joy than a more powerful but heavier rival. Our goal was to identify cars that reward the driver every time the roof drops, not just on a spec sheet.

Related questions

What is the best convertible for under $40,000 in 2027?

The Mazda MX-5 Miata at $34,000 is the best overall under $40,000, offering unmatched driving joy. The Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible at $37,000 is the best value if you need four seats and 315 horsepower. Both are excellent, but the Miata is the purest roadster experience for the money.

Which convertible has the most trunk space?

Among the top 10, the Ford Mustang Convertible offers the most usable trunk space, big enough for a real weekend. The BMW 4 Series and Mercedes CLE also provide decent cargo room. Two-seat roadsters like the Miata and Boxster have smaller trunks, though the Boxster's front and rear trunks add practicality.

Are there any convertibles with all-wheel drive?

Yes, several. The BMW 4 Series offers xDrive, the Mercedes CLE comes standard with 4MATIC, and the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet has all-wheel drive. These models provide better traction in rain or snow, making them viable year-round daily drivers with proper winter tires.

What is the fastest convertible in the top 10?

The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible is the quickest, hitting 0-60 mph in about 2.9 seconds with the Z51 package. Its mid-engine V8 delivers supercar acceleration for a fraction of the price of exotic rivals. The Porsche 911 and 718 Boxster GTS are also very fast.

Which convertible is best for daily driving?

The BMW 4 Series Convertible and Mercedes CLE Cabriolet are excellent daily drivers, offering comfortable rides, refined cabins, and all-wheel drive options. The Ford Mustang Convertible is also practical with its four seats and large trunk. For a sportier feel, the BMW Z4 balances comfort and performance well.

What is the most reliable convertible?

The Mazda MX-5 Miata and Lexus LC 500 Convertible lead in reliability. Mazda and Lexus consistently rank high in dependability studies. The Miata's simple, proven mechanics and the LC 500's robust V8 and quality build make them long-term keepers.

How important is a manual transmission in a convertible?

For enthusiasts, a manual transmission enhances engagement and driving joy. The Mazda MX-5 Miata, Porsche 718 Boxster, and BMW Z4 M40i offer manuals. If you prioritize involvement, choose one of these. Otherwise, modern automatics like the ZF 8-speed in the BMW 4 Series are quick and refined.

FAQ

What is the best convertible for the money in 2027?

The Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible at roughly $37,000 is our Best Value pick. It offers genuine four-seat capacity, 315 horsepower, and V8 availability, undercutting European rivals by tens of thousands of dollars. For pure driving joy, the Mazda MX-5 Miata at $34,000 is the best overall value.

Are soft tops or hardtops better on a convertible?

It depends on priorities. Soft tops are lighter, simpler, and faster to operate, which is why most enthusiasts prefer them. Retractable hardtops, like the Corvette's, are quieter and more secure when closed but add weight, cost, and complexity. For driving feel, soft tops are generally better.

Which convertible is the most reliable?

The Mazda MX-5 Miata and Lexus LC 500 Convertible lead on reliability reputation. Mazda and Lexus consistently rank near the top of owner-satisfaction and dependability studies. Their proven powertrains and quality construction make them excellent long-term choices.

Can you daily-drive a convertible year-round?

Yes, especially models with all-wheel drive such as the BMW Z4, BMW 4 Series xDrive, Mercedes CLE 4MATIC, and 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet. Fit proper winter tires and a modern insulated top keeps the cabin comfortable in the cold. Heated seats and neck-level heating extend the top-down season.

Which convertible is the fastest?

Among this group, the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible is quickest off the line, hitting 0-60 mph in about 2.9 seconds with the Z51 package. That's supercar territory for sports-car money. The Porsche 911 and 718 Boxster GTS are also very quick.

Do convertibles have usable trunk space?

Some do. The Mustang, CLE, 4 Series, and Corvette offer genuinely usable cargo room. The Porsche 718 Boxster has front and rear trunks, making it surprisingly practical. Two-seat roadsters like the Miata trade trunk volume for compact size and low weight, so pack light.

What should I look for when buying a used convertible?

Check the soft top for wear, leaks, and proper operation. Look for signs of structural rigidity issues like cowl shake. Verify maintenance records, especially for complex systems like retractable hardtops. Consider resale value; Porsche, Corvette, and Miata hold value well, while mainstream four-seaters depreciate faster.

Is a convertible practical for a family?

Some convertibles can work for small families. The Ford Mustang, BMW 4 Series, and Mercedes CLE have usable rear seats and trunks. However, rear legroom is limited, and child seats can be difficult to install. For regular family duty, a four-door sedan or SUV is more practical, but for occasional use, these work.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/mx-5-miata
• https://www.motortrend.com/cars/porsche/718-boxster/
• https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/z4/
• https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/corvette-stingray/
• https://www.usnews.com/cars-trucks/ford/mustang/
• https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/bmw/z4-roadster-2019/sdrive-m40i-2dr-handschalter-pack/first-drive
• https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/mercedes-benz/cle-cabriolet
• https://www.carwow.co.uk/mini/cooper-convertible

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