The sun is shining here in So-Cal and we are more than ready to welcome summer weather! Whether you're always thinking about your dream convertible or you've always appreciated more practical cars, there's no denying the allure of a shiny convertible. And because we're dreamers, too, here are our favorite drop tops.
2015 Ford Mustang - Nothing says California dreamin' like a Mustang convertible. Ever since its release in 1964, the Mustang has captured the essence of what it means to be a sporty convertible. The Mustang comes with a convertible option at each price point, from the thrifty V6 all the way up to the GT trim. (We’re partial to the 2.3 EcoBoost option ourselves.) The 310 horsepower and 320 ft. lbs of torque are more than enough for a spirited city or mountain road drive without breaking the bank. And, best of all? You can still option this car with a manual transmission!
2015 BMW 4 Series - If you’re after something with a little more luxury, check out the BMW 4 series convertible. Formerly known as the 3-series convertible, this mid-size 2 door coupe has all the hallmarks of the quality and styling the German manufacturer is known for. With powerful 2.0L and 3.0L motor options, you’re sure to feel the wind in your hair as you cruise the highway! Unlike the convertibles of yesterday, the BMW has a retractable hardtop, offering a quieter ride and less fading from years in the sun.
2015 Mazda MX-5 - Better known as the Miata, the MX-5 offers sporty styling and handling in a diminutive package. This car is well known in enthusiast communities for it’s superb abilities on the race track. The light design, generous powerband, and engineered suspension make it a force to be reckoned with. For the average convertible buyer, the MX-5 has a sleek, small styling that is rarely seen in other vehicles, excellent MPG (21/28), and it holds its value year after year.
2015 Mercedes SL 65 AMG - If you’re looking for something covered in leather that will roar down the highway, you just might be looking for this beast of a car. Opulence, luxury, and speed only begin to describe the driving experience that is the SL 65 AMG. Mercedes pulled out all the stops on this hardtop convertible. With a 621hp twin-turbo V12 engine under the hood, this car is sure to put your heart in your throat on the open road. The styling of this car can’t be beaten, it’s low and long look is unmistakable. You’ll find it hard to turn away.
2015 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray - Much like the Mustang, the Corvette needs no real introduction. Chevrolet introduced the model in 1953, and it quickly took on a life of its own and an unmatched reputation in the local car marketplace. When you’re looking for something that says fast, you look toward the Corvette. With 455 horsepower, this American classic will leave your passengers rattled, and you invigorated. And it’s most shocking feature? The transparent roof panel! Even the rain won’t be able to ruin the view of the sky from the cockpit of this car!
When it comes to convertibles in Southern California, there’s a glut of options (we barely scratched the surface). With an average forecast of 70 degrees and 263 sunny days each year, San Diego is definitely not the worst place in the world to make a drop-top your daily driver.
Image: Flickr