Top 10 New Convertibles

In an age dominated by SUVs, electric performance cars, and practical crossovers, the appeal of a convertible remains uniquely emotional. These are not vehicles chosen purely for logic or efficiency—they exist for experience.

Drop the roof, and suddenly the world feels different: traffic seems lighter, the air feels warmer, and every drive becomes an event rather than a routine. Convertibles are about sensation, not spreadsheets.This guide to standout convertibles from around 2012 isn’t focused on lap times, cargo space, or technical superiority. Instead, it celebrates personality, excitement, and pure driving enjoyment. The selection spans a wide range of price points and reflects years of debate, disagreement, and enthusiastic discussion among automotive writers and contributors.

To keep things structured, we move upward through price brackets—from affordable open-top fun to high-end exotic machines.

Under $20,000

2012 Fiat 500C Pop

Starting price: $19,500

At the entry level, the Fiat 500C stands almost alone. While its performance is modest, it compensates with charm and playful design. The retractable soft roof offers multiple positions, allowing partial or full open-air driving even while moving at moderate speeds. Compared to similarly priced alternatives, it feels far more characterful and visually appealing.

$20,000–$30,000

2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Starting price: $24,265

This category includes several strong contenders, but the MX-5 Miata remains the benchmark. Lightweight, rear-wheel driven, and incredibly engaging, it is widely regarded as one of the most enjoyable affordable sports cars ever made. Its manual transmission enhances the experience further, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. A retractable hardtop version is also available within this range.

$30,000–$40,000

2012 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

Starting price: $31,080

Competition is limited in this bracket, but the Camaro stands out with bold styling and strong performance. Even the base V6 version delivers impressive power, while higher trims approach muscle-car territory with V8 engines. Its aggressive design and road presence make it one of the most visually striking convertibles in its class.

$40,000–$50,000

2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet

Starting price: $44,245

The Audi A5 Cabriolet combines elegant styling with refined driving dynamics. Its design is widely praised for its proportions and flowing lines, making it one of the most attractive convertibles available. Inside, the cabin is meticulously crafted, offering a premium feel that rivals more expensive models. Quattro all-wheel drive and automatic transmission enhance usability and comfort.

$50,000–$60,000

2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

Starting price: $58,595

This Mercedes model emphasizes comfort and refinement over aggressive performance. It offers genuine seating for four passengers and a well-insulated cabin that allows relaxed conversation even with the top down. While the engine is smooth rather than thrilling, the overall driving experience is calm, composed, and luxurious.

$60,000–$70,000

2013 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Convertible

Starting price: $60,575

The Corvette remains one of America’s most iconic sports cars. The Grand Sport variant balances performance and usability exceptionally well, delivering strong acceleration and sharp handling. It is practical enough for everyday use while still providing the visceral excitement expected from a V8-powered convertible.

$70,000–$80,000

2012 BMW M3 Convertible

Starting price: $68,750 (before options and fees)

This generation of M3 is powered by a high-revving V8 engine known for its distinctive sound and character. With the roof down, the engine note becomes even more engaging. While pricing can increase significantly with options, the base experience remains one of the most emotional driving experiences in BMW’s lineup.

$80,000–$90,000

2012 BMW 6 Series Convertible

Starting price: $82,795

The 6 Series focuses on grand touring comfort combined with strong performance. Its turbocharged inline-six engine delivers smooth and consistent power, paired with an advanced automatic transmission. Although heavier and more relaxed than sport-focused models, it offers excellent ride quality and refinement.

$90,000–$100,000

2013 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet

Starting price: $94,650

The 911 Cabriolet continues the legacy of one of the most respected sports cars ever built. With a rear-mounted flat-six engine and precise engineering, it delivers a driving experience that is both accessible and highly capable. It remains practical enough for daily use while maintaining exceptional performance and heritage.

$100,000–$200,000

2012 Audi R8 Spyder 4.2

Starting price: $131,950

In this luxury-performance bracket, the R8 Spyder stands out for its balance of usability and exotic appeal. Its naturally aspirated V8 sits behind the driver, producing a distinctive and immersive sound. Combined with all-wheel drive and advanced construction, it feels both futuristic and emotionally engaging.

$200,000 and Above

2013 Ferrari 458 Spider

Estimated starting price: $275,000

At the top end of the spectrum, the Ferrari 458 Spider represents pure automotive emotion. Its high-revving V8 engine, extreme performance, and striking design create an intense driving experience. With the roof down, it becomes fully immersive—delivering sound, speed, and sensation in equal measure. It is widely regarded as one of the most desirable convertibles of its era.

Final Thoughts

From affordable entry-level models to extreme supercars, convertibles offer something no other vehicle category can fully replicate: an emotional connection to driving. Whether simple or exotic, each car in this lineup transforms ordinary journeys into memorable experiences.