Cabriolet
Derived from the French term for “convertible,” a cabriolet is a vehicle designed to transition between a closed-top and open-top configuration, offering the versatility of open-air driving. Typically similar in style to a sport coupé, a cabriolet features a retractable roof, traditionally made of fabric (soft-top), which folds compactly when not in use. In older models, a rumble seat—an auxiliary seat located in the rear of the vehicle—was a common feature, though not a defining characteristic.
Manufacturers often distinguish a cabriolet from a roadster; for example, Mercedes-Benz classifies the cabriolet as having a folding soft-top, whereas a roadster features a retractable hard-top that is stored in the trunk. In British terminology, the term “Drophead Coupé” is used interchangeably with cabriolet. The design prioritizes elegance and leisure, appealing to those who value both aesthetics and the experience of open-air motoring.
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