The Five Best Mercedes Convertibles of All Time

Often hailed as the pinnacle of ’60s convertible design, the 250 SL roadster blends classic style with solid performance. Its 2.5-liter inline-6 puts out a respectable 170 hp, propelling the car to a top speed of around 124 mph. Whether you’re cruising coastal highways or winding country roads, this Pagoda-roof icon delivers timeless elegance and enough power to make every drive memorable.

Inspired by the legendary 300 SL “Gullwing,” the 190 SL offered a more accessible taste of open-top motoring. Built on a shortened sedan platform, it’s lighter and more affordable than its supercar cousin, yet it still exudes Mercedes boulevardier flair. With its graceful curves and refined road manners, the 190 SL remains a favorite among collectors seeking vintage style without the Gullwing price tag.

Stunning and sophisticated, the 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet epitomizes luxury convertible motoring. Only 68 right-hand-drive examples were ever made, adding to its exclusivity. When new, it was the fastest, most expensive open-top Mercedes, and a painstaking five-year restoration recently brought one example back to near-showroom condition. From its smooth 3.5-liter V8 to its plush leather interior, there’s simply no modern rival that matches its combination of style, comfort, and rarity.

AMG’s mantra of “driving performance” shines in the GT Roadster. With 469 hp from its twin-turbo V8, instant throttle response, and razor-sharp handling, it feels every bit the sports car it advertises. A factory performance exhaust option lets you announce your arrival in unmistakable AMG growl, and a 0–60 mph sprint in about 3.6 seconds makes it as quick as it is captivating. For sheer modern performance balanced with top-down fun, it’s hard to beat.

Ask any Mercedes aficionado and the choice is clear: the 300 SLR is the ultimate legend. Born as a race-derived road car, it claimed the 1955 World Sportscar Championship before its tragic Le Mans accident. Only nine were built, two of which were later converted into hybrid 300 SLR/300 SLs. With a 180 mph top speed, it was once the fastest road car on the planet—and many still regard it as the greatest sports racer ever made. Its unmatched history and performance heritage secure its spot at No. 1.