Heading towards spring - Drive with the convertible

Spring is just around the corner and the warmer temperatures and sunshine make us long for summer, sun, and vacation. How about something special this year - a tour with a convertible, for example? Even if you don't own one, just rent your dream model for a few days. There are so many great routes to discover in Europe. And how better to explore the beautiful places and landscapes than in a convertible?

The history of convertibles

Today, we associate convertibles with driving fun and luxury. However, it used to be the other way around - the first automobiles in the 1880s had only an open body. This made production easier and less costly. The term convertible was coined later, when 20 years after the invention of the automobile, closed cars became the norm and the open variant, known as the cabriolet, developed into an exclusive and more expensive alternative for a smaller customer base.

The name cabriolet actually comes from coachbuilding and means "two-seater carriage". Over the course of the 20th century, the convertible became a symbol of sporty luxury, and initially, only a few manufacturers produced the expensive models because the demand was not yet high. It was only in the 1980s, with the increasing demand worldwide, that smaller sporty models came onto the market at more affordable prices, and models from almost every car brand became available.

What makes convertibles so special?

By definition, a convertible simply means a car with a collapsible or retractable roof. Nowadays, you have a wide range of choices from many different models and offerings from various manufacturers. They all either have a hardtop, which is a fixed roof, or a fabric top. The top is opened manually by usually getting out of the vehicle and folding the roof, which is attached to a three-piece frame, or automatically by pressing a button. If the convertible has a fixed roof, it is called a coupe-convertible. Here, too, the roof is folded using the same mechanism. The three pieces are pushed together and stored in the trunk, covered by a flap.

In order for the mechanisms for convertible tops to be just as safe and of high quality, a tribological coating is used, as in many other areas of automotive manufacturing. This ensures that the plain bearings are low-friction and wear-resistant and have a particularly long service life. At the same time, the size and weight of the plain bearings remain the same, so that they meet the strict criteria regarding design, function, and performance. Opening and closing the roof becomes pure joy.

Feel the wind in your hair and always go towards the sun

Are you now in the mood for a summery excursion in a convertible? The selection of routes is huge. Sea, hinterland, or mountains? Or a combination of everything? How about a trip to Champagne or Tuscany, for example? But there are also many charming areas in Germany, such as the North Sea coast, the foothills of the Alps, and much more. And one thing is for sure, whether it's a vintage model or a sleek new car or sports car - a ride in a convertible is always a special experience. Which model makes your heart beat faster?