Convertible Comparison

The TT’s 3.2-liter V6 generates 250 horsepower and moves the car well, but this engine isn’t as modern or efficient as the BMW and Mercedes offerings. Ride quality also lags behind the other two cars, as the TT can react harshly to sharp bumps and potholes.


The TT, however, has two advantages its competitors don’t. The TT is the only one of these cars that is also offered with a four-cylinder engine. It’s a 2.0-liter turbocharged four that makes 200 horsepower. It’s spritely, offers better fuel economy, and comes with a base price of $36,800, making it the least expensive way to experience this kind of fun. The TT is also the only car to offer the all-weather, all-year capability of all-wheel drive, which Audi calls quattro. We’d highly recommend the TT with the four-cylinder and all-wheel drive, but the price gets awfully high for the V6, and without a substantial increase in performance. (www.audiusa.com)

2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350

Base Price: $49,450. Mercedes is about luxury and that’s why the SLK 350 has softer suspension tuning than its Audi and BMW rivals. But don’t think that the SLK isn’t sporty. It certainly is, especially in tight quarters. The SLK handles like a dream on an autocross or slalom, but isn’t quite as planted in long, sweeping turns as the BMW. With more body lean and tire squeal than the competitors, the SLK is also more predictable and provides more feedback, but just isn’t quite as nimble.


The SLK’s softer suspension tuning makes it the smoothest riding car of this group. Its engine, a 3.5-liter V6 with 268 horsepower, also has the most power, but the SLK is also the heaviest of these cars, so available power is about a wash. The gearshift in manual transmission models is a little rubbery, too. If ride quality outweighs other factors for you, the SLK is your choice. Just be prepared for a little sticker shock, as the SLK is the most expensive choice of the trio.


Our picks are based on a love for handling, and price considerations, but we’ve also made sure to note those who might be attracted to each car. One factor not considered is styling, which will certainly sway buyers in this category. Rest assured, that no matter which car you pick, even if it’s just a summer rental, they will all certainly put a smile on your face. And if you’re inclined to hustle through the corners, you’ll have even more fun. Just remember to keep the windows down when the top is dropped. Driving top down and windows up is the sure sign of an automotive nerd. (www.mbusa.com)