Exclusive: Hot Convertibles for Summer
Aston Martin DB7 Vantage Volante:
Gorgeous body work with delicate curves and an aggressive countenance make the British-built DB7 Vantage Volante a royal member of the convertible elite. Beneath the sweeping hood lurks a torquey 420-horse, 5.9-liter V12 engine that serves up power with a world-class ladle. The formidable powerplant can be mated to either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic Touchtronic transmission. An independent double-wishbone suspension provides a supple, reasonably controlled ride. Inside, the intimate 2+2 is enshrouded in sumptuous Connolly leather and trimmed in burr walnut wood -- no imitation materials here! The rear seat is a mere package shelf, capable of catching the driver's ego as it spills forth.
Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible:
Chrysler presented a tantalizing concept at the 2001 New York Auto Show, a PT Cruiser convertible. Nicely executed, the show car had its hard roof surgically removed and replaced with a custom cloth-top made from production Sebring Convertible components. Typically a four-door vehicle, this special PT Cruiser features a pair of elongated doors, giving it a coupe-like appearance and easy ingress/egress for the rear seat. The exterior is dressed up with a custom grille and massive 19-inch wheels. Termed a design study, this vehicle offers a three-dimensional look at the intriguing possibilities for this popular, retro wagon. Chrysler is being coy, but insiders indicate that this is a serious concept and is being given production consideration.
Chrysler Sebring Convertible:
The sky may be the limit to your aspirations, but if your budget is more grounded, the Chrysler Sebring convertible stands out as well-rounded car for the money. In fact, it offers one of the largest interiors available in a modern convertible, matched with a comfortable ride, tasteful styling, and good all-around packaging. A full complement of power equipment is standard, along with air conditioning, and up-level models benefit from leather-trimmed seats and Infinity audio system. Starting in the low $20s, the Sebring Convertible features a 200-horsepower, 2.7-liter V-6 that delivers lively performance. A good value, this summer cruiser leaves enough in the bank for motoring vacations.
Ford Thunderbird:
Ford is making a nostalgia play with the 2002 {{{Thunderbird}}}, drawing deep inspiration for the collector-coveted, first-generation 1955-1957 car, with a hint of 1961-1962 in the rear. Available only as a roadster, an optional removable hardtop adds a winter mode and a '50s-style porthole. Beneath the sheetmetal, the new Thunderbird is thoroughly modern, riding on a new corporate rear-drive platform shared with the well-regarded {{{Jaguar S-Type}}} and award-winning {{{Lincoln LS}}} sedans. Power comes from an efficient 3.9-liter V-8 producing 252 horses. Inside, the T-Bird has leather upholstery and trim details finished to be reminiscent of the '50s, yet treated with a modern aesthetic. The two-seat time machine will start at $35,495 when it goes on sale later this year.
Lexus SC430:
What chief complaints from convertible owners are never addressed? What functionality could make a coupe something truly special? Answer to both questions is the same mechanical marvel: a retractable hardtop. Only the Mercedes-Benz SLK has a similar feature, combining the best of all worlds. This is but one of the many innovative elements on the all-new SC430 that Lexus hopes will woo luxury coupe buyers. Distinctive styling inside and out give the car an upscale character that carries an artistic flair. The French-inspired interior features wood, leather, abundant power amenities, audiophile-grade sound system, and available DVD-based navigation. As the name implies, a silken 4.3-liter V-8 is at the heart of the rear-drive SC, producing 300-horsepower. Refined, sporty, and sexy, this all-weather convertible has it all.