Probably you are already thinking of a road trip with your loved one for next summer. And when you are doing that, what can be the best car that comes in your mind?

There might be a number of options. But probably no other car offers as much comfort and style together as a convertible. But do you know what are the things that you need to look for while buying a convertible? Let’s find out.

Before you jumpstart the process of buying a car, make sure that you know everything about convertible and the reason why you are buying it.

A convertible is a two-door car with a retractable roof. It can have two seats or it can also be a four-seat sedan. No matter what the seat number is, a convertible is always a luxury car. The roof can be hard or soft, depending on your choice. But you need to think of a few matters before you are going to buy it.

Your next Saab 9-3 or Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is probably getting ready for you to jump in the driver’s seat and hit the pedal. But before you start your journey with it, go through the checklist.

Size

Your convertible can be a two-seat roadster or a four-seat luxury model. You can always find an affordable drop top for your car.

Hard top or soft top

This is probably the biggest question that keeps a would-be convertible owner wondering. The users have different and biased views. But let’s face it — while you are investing on a luxury car, you obviously want it to have an impressive design that will please the eyes. If you are opting for a soft top, then it won’t serve the matter. But there are many new designs of completely retractable hard tops, which break into two or three pieces and stows itself elegantly in the trunk of the car. And when it is up, it will be easy to the eyes and won’t look like a convertible at all.

However, hard top has its own share of problems. They are complex in design and heavy. And they occupy more space in the trunk of the car. In the new versions of soft top convertibles, they are designed with multiple layers keeping the bad weather and storm in mind.

Engine and Fuel

Mostly, the mid-sized convertibles use engines of four and six cylinders. On the other hand, the luxurious models of convertibles use powerful six cylinders or V8 engines. The four to six cylinder engine can get good combined millage ranging between low to mid 20 mpg. However, the luxury drop top models, having eight cylinders, turn in less than 20 mpg.

Safety

Safety is another issue that one looks for while buying a luxury car. Convertibles offer fixed or pop up roll bars to save the passenger in the case of rollover accidents. Side airbags that deploy from the seat help to protect the head of the passenger, just as the side curtains do in the case of closed roof cars. In case of luxury branded convertibles, they are a staple. But in the low-cost models, they are almost optional. So, you need to look for it while buying it.

Luxury Features

While you are investing for a luxury car, it has to be your priority. The regular features like automatic climate changer, heated seats, ipod interface, navigation control, keyless start system and others can be found in the less expensive cars. The luxury models often consist of special features like heated and cooled seats, built-in wind deflector, sun reflective leather upholstery. Look for the seats, which automatically return to the previous position.

The Space in the Trunk

It is always important to look at the trunk space that the model is providing you with. If it is a hard top, then it is going to occupy more space in the trunk than that of the soft top. When you check for space, keep the goods that you will transport in mind.

Top Up and Top Down Driving

While driving top down, a wind deflector is a must, as it will control the turbulence as well as keep your hair dress safe. When driving top up, smaller rear windows becomes a big issue as they create a large blind spot. That is why, blind spot warning system, rear view camera and parking sensors are the most important features to look for.

Before you are going to buy a convertible, you also need to know about its pros and cons.

Pros

  • Smaller weight

  • Visually attractive

  • Liberty to see the amazing view

Cons

  • Convertibles are never a good option for bad weather

  • Convertible is not really fit as a family car

  • Structural rigidity does not allow the car to be as much safe as a solid body car

  • Attracts thieves, as it is easy to break in than other cars

  • Poor visibility and blind spots make it accident prone

But convertible is, no doubt, a fun to drive and to show off. And the troubles can be managed if you use it with a few tricks according to what the situation demands. So what are you waiting for? Rush to the nearby dealer and bring this baby home. Enjoy the ride.

Image Courtesy: carbodydesign.com