European automakers understand the joy of cruising in a convertible, especially when the sun warms your face, and the wind whips through your hair. So, they craft convertibles with meticulous detail, building legendary cars like Elvis Presley’s BMW and multi-million dollar Ferraris. Despite industrial advancements, these 15 European roadsters are classics with a timeless appeal.

1950 – Present Day Morgan Plus 4

The Morgan Plus 4 has always been for those who love feeling the wind in their face without regarding safety. This two-seater sports car has used several Triumph, Ford, and BMW engines. In 2020, Morgan introduced a new Plus Four with a BMW-sourced 2.0-liter twin-turbo engine and a modern bonded aluminum platform.

1958 – 1961 Austin-Healey Sprite Mark I

When Donald Healey wanted a super affordable sports car that could fit in a garage with bikes, the Austin Motor Company helped make it happen. They used parts from BMC cars, including its 43 HP A-series engine, and skipped the retractable headlights. The result was the iconic, 1,475-pound “Bugeye,” perfect for a fun ride.

1936 – 1940 BMW 328

Before BMW became the luxury brand we know today, it dominated race tracks with the 328. The car racked up over 100 wins in its prime, including races like the Mille Miglia, Grand Prix, and the Le Mans. With its lightweight design and 2.0-liter six-cylinder engine, the 328 was a joy to watch.

1957 – 1972 Lotus Seven

Using his “simplicity and low weight” philosophy, Colin Chapman built the Lotus Seven without the roof, doors, and windows. Despite being Lotus’ inaugural production vehicle, this convertible was a massive hit. They even sold them as kit cars for owners to assemble. Then, Caterham Cars bought the design rights when production stopped in 1972.

1966 – 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider

When Pininfarina styles a convertible, and Carrozzeria assembles the actual piece, it attracts celebrities like Steve McQueen and Brigitte Bardot. The Alfa Romeo Spider was a masterpiece. This two-seater, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive roadster is the kind of car you dream about at 15 but might only own much later due to its high price tag.

1961 – 1967 Jaguar E-Type

Jaguar powered the E-Type with the renowned straight-six XK engine responsible for five Le Mans victories. On its release, the E-Type was the world’s fastest production car. Then, Malcolm Sayer complemented its performance with a beautiful design that attracted celebrities like Steve McQueen, Frank Sinatra, and even Prince Charles.

1967 Ferrari 275 GTS/4 NART Spyder

When Ferrari’s North American importer, Luigi Chinetti, saw the 275 GTB/4 at a car show, he convinced Ferrari to build 10 drop-top versions for the US market. Then, Ferrari named the cars after their North American Racing Team (NART). With such rarity, a NART Spyder sold for $27.5 million at a 2013 RM Sotheby auction.

1956 – 1959 BMW 507

We have a convertible that rivals American icons thanks to Max Hoffmann, the visionary importer who dreamed of a sleek German roadster. Designed by Count Albrecht von Goertz, the 507 debuted in 1955 at New York City’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. When Elvis Presley famously bought two, celebrities like John Derek and Alain Delon followed suit.

1957 – 1960 Ferrari 250 GT Spyder Long Wheel Base

Once again, Luigi Chinetti persuaded Enzo Ferrari to create a limited-edition convertible for the US market. This time, the goal was to build an open-top version of the 250 GT Berlinetta. This Spyder LWB had Scaglietti’s meticulous crafting and Pininfarina’s gorgeous Italian design, including Ferrari’s legendary 3.0-liter V12 engine, which delivered around 237 HP.

1983 – 1996 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible

After the E-Type’s success, Jaguar decided to add a comfortable grand tourer to its lineup. They built two convertible styles, which caught the eye of wealthy celebrities, including Tom Hanks and Diana, Princess of Wales. This model had the new 3.6L Jaguar AJ6, an all-aluminum straight-six engine that was lighter and more fuel-efficient.

1962 – 1967 AC Cobra

After American racing driver Carroll Shelby retired from years of active racing, he collaborated with AC Cars and Ford to build a unique car. While AC reworked the chassis and repositioned the steering box of an Ace roadster, Ford supplied powerful 3.6L V8 engines. Then, Shelby handled installations and bodywork, creating the Shelby-AC Cobra.

1962 – 1973 Lotus Elan

Not every sports car makes it to the silver screen, but the Lotus Elan did. Roger Moore drove a yellow Elan in a chase scene in James Bond’s 1974 film “The Man with the Golden Gun.” The Elan became famous mainly because Lotus founder Colin Chapman insisted on a 1,500-pound car with four-cylinder engines.

1987 Aston Martin V8 DB5 Volante

If you think this car looks familiar, you’re right! The DB5 Volante briefly appeared in James Bond’s “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” This limited-edition Volante allowed drivers to enjoy the open road and the deep, throaty roar of its powerful V8 Twin-Cam engine.

1953 – 1956 Porsche Speedster

As Porsche’s sole importer into the US, Max Hoffman pitched the idea of an elegant roadster for the American market. Porsche liked his idea and built a convertible with a lower windshield, a simple folding top, bucket seats, minimal carpeting, and lightweight aluminum doors. The exciting Speedster was an instant hit in America.

1963 – 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL W113

Mercedes understood that building a reliable, well-engineered convertible didn’t necessarily mean successful sales. So, they tasked Paul Bracq with designing a car the market would welcome with open hands. He gave the W113 a rectilinear look with straight lines and added a slightly concave hardtop that earned the “Pagoda” nickname from its loyal following.