Go topless

Convertibles map the way to freeway freedom.

by Jon M. Gibson
5/3/00

It's about bringing the outside in.

The rip-roar of the wind in your hair, the contours of an expansive highway, the purr of a sporty engine and the overzealous rush of shifting a ‘55 Thunderbird into gear. What better way to experience freedom than in a convertible?

Many car enthusiasts will argue about the most intricately constructed, most durable and ingenious of these top-down road liberators – from the ‘53 Corvette to the ‘30s Morgan Plus 4 or the BMW 507 – but without a mechanic’s explanation, most drivers probably wouldn’t even know more than the shade of paint they prefer.

The convertible is more than just engineering and design; it is the embodiment of relief, of a stress-free cruise through life. It’s about "bringing the outside in," says Novi convertible fanatic Robert Emerson. "You’ve got Kensington, Lake Huron, Point Pelee," he continues, remembering the relaxing, smooth sensation of the cool wind against his skin when cruising by landmarks, trademarks and other summer recess spots.

In a car-industry state consumed by four-door sedans, coupes and the cluttered chaos of the sliding-hatch family vehicle, the convertible has come to symbolize an escape. Whether you are evading the indignities of work, taking flight from the hardships of school or crossing state lines as a fugitive, the touring power of a convertible has the strength to absorb the soul.

Some might argue it is simply an extension of the ego – a plaything, a joy-toy for the rich. But once the top is down and the engine is roaring, there is probably only one thing on your mind: "I hope I never hit a stop light."

Gripping the wheel of a convertible is truly a retreat – or, shall I say, "treat." Regardless of passengers complaining about windblown hair or other drivers with pent-up road rage, when your foot hits the gas of a convertible, the world seems to revolve around you, the driver. Whether John Fogerty, B.B. King or the Rolling Stones are blaring on the radio, it’s all about "the feel of the road and enhancing the enjoyment of the drive," says Emerson.

Unfortunately, Michigan’s seasons pose a dilemma for open-wind aficionados. Rain, sleet, snow and hail can all fall within a few hours in our sometimes unfair state. Within moments, whirlwinds, tornadoes, even extreme lightning storms can whip up. The only cure for Mother Nature’s vicious streak is to cover up, and through Michigan’s brutal winter, many convertibles sit snug under a cozy blue tarp.

From September until about April, thousands of classic vehicles take a hiatus on the unused side of the "car collector’s studio," yearning for the ripe, warm weather in May when the sun puts on its shades and the rain migrates south to Florida.

A quick glance out your window right now – assuming the weather has finally settled into a summery good mood – will probably reveal a convertible of some generation floating down the blacktop as if it were the only piece of machinery for a few hundred miles – and with good reason. Once the harsh conditions of feudal snow time bow down, dominating the road is what the convertible is about. Aside from traffic signs and rush-hour backups, now is when the beauty of the roof-off car is in full force.

But for every story praising the freedom of these kings of the road, more stories can be told of convertible disasters. Theft is probably the most violent act to be projected upon these sports cars, seeing as a retractable roof isn’t quite a model for security. And since the ever-popular Jaguar isn’t kind to bank accounts, nether are criminals.

Then comes the savagery of hot wax and water. Although it is rare, convertible owners sometimes find their precious cars have had their paint damaged or hoods warped in car washes. And as one last disadvantage, imagine a Corvette vs. a Jeep during a collision. Since they’re built for touring and not freeway battles, convertibles usually are the victims of crashes, not the victors.

Now, with the car-theft epic Gone in 60 Seconds and the high-octane Mission: Impossible 2 hitting theaters this summer – both featuring those hot, sporty roadsters – convertibles will probably reach a new height in popularity. So ignore the restrictions of these open-topped vehicles, make sure your ego has a nice reflection in the rear-view mirror and take a new route to work.

Jon M. Gibson throws caution to the winds for the Metro Times.