Convertible vs. Cabriolet — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 2, 2024
A convertible is a broad term for any car with a roof that can be retracted or removed, offering an open-air driving experience, while a cabriolet specifically refers to a convertible with a soft-top roof.
Difference Between Convertible and Cabriolet
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Convertible is a category of cars that includes any vehicle with a retractable roof, encompassing both soft-tops and hard-tops. In contrast, a cabriolet is a type of convertible that exclusively features a soft, fabric roof that can be folded down.
The term convertible is widely used in the United States to describe these open-top cars, whereas cabriolet, often shortened to "cabrio," is more commonly used in European contexts and refers specifically to soft-top models.
Convertibles are designed for a versatile driving experience, allowing for both enclosed and open-air configurations. Cabriolets, being a subset of convertibles, focus on the luxury and aesthetic appeal of a soft, collapsible roof.
The structural design of convertibles can vary, offering either a soft-top or a hard-top that folds away, typically into the rear section of the vehicle. Cabriolets, however, are limited to a soft fabric top, which is lighter but potentially less durable and less secure than hard-tops.
Convertibles often come with various technological enhancements to ease the transition between open and closed roof states, such as automatic retractable systems. Cabriolets also feature similar technologies but may require more maintenance due to the fabric's vulnerability to weather and wear.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Car with a retractable or removable roof
Convertible car with a soft-top roof
Types of Roofs
Soft-top or hard-top
Only soft-top
Common Usage
United States
Europe (especially the term usage)
Durability
Varies with material (hard-tops are generally more durable)
Less durable due to fabric material
Technological Features
Often includes advanced automatic systems for roof retraction
Similar systems but may require more maintenance
Compare with Definitions
Convertible
Designed for an enjoyable, versatile driving experience.
Owning a convertible makes summer drives much more exciting.
Cabriolet
Known for its stylish appearance and leisurely appeal.
The red cabriolet stood out as a symbol of luxury among other cars.
Convertible
A car with a roof that can be folded down or removed.
They drove down the coast in their new convertible, enjoying the sunny weather.
Cabriolet
Requires maintenance for the fabric roof to keep it in good condition.
He regularly treated his cabriolet’s roof with a protective spray to prevent wear.
Convertible
Can be adapted for driving in different weather conditions.
Her convertible came with a removable hard-top for winter months.
Cabriolet
A type of convertible car with a soft, foldable fabric roof.
They rented a classic cabriolet for their wedding day to add a touch of elegance.
Convertible
Often equipped with advanced retraction mechanisms for the roof.
The convertible’s roof folded neatly into the trunk with the push of a button.
Cabriolet
Typically less secure than hard-tops but preferred for its aesthetics.
Despite its lack of security, his love for the classic look of a cabriolet was undeniable.
Convertible
Available in various styles including both soft-top and hard-top.
He preferred a hard-top convertible for additional security and durability.
Cabriolet
Offers the joy of open-air driving with a touch of vintage charm.
Driving a cabriolet along the seaside was her favorite weekend activity.
Convertible
A convertible or cabriolet () is a passenger car that can be driven with or without a roof in place. The methods of retracting and storing the roof vary between models.
Cabriolet
A two-wheeled, one-horse carriage having a single bench seat and a folding top.
Convertible
Able to be changed in form, function, or character
Nationalism is too easily convertible into bitterness and selfishness
A convertible sofa
Cabriolet
An automobile with a folding top; a convertible coupe.
Convertible
A car with a folding or detachable roof
Brendan picked her up in his cherry-red convertible
Cabriolet
An automobile with a retractable top.
Convertible
A convertible security
An investment in convertibles can bring a higher return than an investment in equities
Cabriolet
(originally) A light two- or four-wheeled carriage with a folding top, pulled by a single horse.
Convertible
Capable of being converted
A convertible sofa bed.
Cabriolet
A one-horse carriage with two seats and a calash top.
Convertible
Having a top that can be folded back or removed
A convertible automobile.
Cabriolet
Small two-wheeled horse-drawn carriage; with two seats and a folding hood
Convertible
Lawfully exchangeable for gold or another currency
Dollars convertible into yen.
Convertible
Something that can be converted.
Convertible
A convertible automobile.
Convertible
A convertible security.
Convertible
Able to be converted, particularly:
Convertible
Able to be exchanged, one for the other, especially
Convertible
(logic) Able to undergo conversion (i.e., inversion) without falsehood.
Convertible
Able to be turned, especially
Convertible
Able to be turned into a different thing, especially
Convertible
Interchangeable things or terms.
Convertible
(vehicles) A convertible car: a car with a removable or foldable roof able to convert from a closed to open vehicle and back again.
Convertible
(finance) A convertible security: a stock, bond, etc. that can be turned into another (usually common stock) under certain set terms.
Convertible
(computing) A computer able to convert from laptop to tablet and back again.
Convertible
Capable of being converted; susceptible of change; transmutable; transformable.
Minerals are not convertible into another species, though of the same genus.
Convertible
Capable of being exchanged or interchanged; reciprocal; interchangeable.
So long as we are in the regions of nature, miraculous and improbable, miraculous and incredible, may be allowed to remain convertible terms.
Convertible
A car that has top that can be folded or removed
Convertible
A corporate security (usually bonds or preferred stock) that can be exchanged for another form of security (usually common stock)
Convertible
A sofa that can be converted into a bed
Convertible
Capable of being exchanged for or replaced by something of equal value;
Convertible securities
Convertible
Designed to be changed from one use or form to another;
A convertible sofa
A convertible coupe
Convertible
Capable of being changed in substance as if by alchemy;
Is lead really transmutable into gold?
Ideas translatable into reality
Common Curiosities
What are the advantages of a convertible?
Convertibles offer the flexibility of an open-top when the weather is nice and an enclosed car when needed.
What is the main difference between a convertible and a cabriolet?
The main difference is that while all cabriolets are convertibles with soft-tops, not all convertibles are cabriolets as some feature hard-tops.
Which is more secure, a convertible or a cabriolet?
Generally, convertibles with hard-tops are more secure and durable than cabriolets, which have soft fabric roofs.
Can you use a cabriolet in winter?
Yes, but additional care for the fabric top is necessary, and it’s advisable to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for winter use.
Which type of roof is better for reducing road noise?
Hard-tops are generally better at insulating against road noise compared to fabric soft-tops.
Do cabriolets hold their value over time?
Cabriolets can hold their value well if they are well-maintained and from a reputable brand, especially classic or limited models.
Are there any safety concerns with driving a convertible or cabriolet?
Modern convertibles, including cabriolets, are designed with safety in mind, but they may not offer the same level of rollover protection as fixed-roof vehicles.
Are cabriolets more expensive than other convertibles?
Pricing can vary widely, but cabriolets often carry a premium due to their luxury and aesthetic appeal.
Why might someone prefer a cabriolet over other types of convertibles?
Someone might prefer a cabriolet for its stylish design and the classic, leisurely driving experience it offers.
How do you maintain the roof of a cabriolet?
Regular cleaning and treatment with fabric protectants are recommended to maintain the condition and functionality of the roof.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
