Recently, I was surprised to learn a co-worker of mine had never been in a car with the top down. I then asked around and discovered several other co-workers had never experienced the joy of a topless car either. Another friend just took his own maiden voyage as well. Apparently, riding around in convertibles is not a universal experience. I realize they are not as common as they used to be, but still…

I have been fortunate when it comes to convertibles. My father has always owned a convertible since he was in his teens. When my brother and I were kids he would strap us into the passenger seat of his 1968 Triumph TR250 and take us for rides. He still drives it on weekends. This past weekend, I rode in two different Jeeps with the top down on consecutive days. Thanks Wiley and Frank & Liz.

In total I can recall the following convertibles I have been in:

1 Triumph TR250 (1968)
1 Ford Galaxy (1960s vintage)
1 Mercedes two-seater (1979)
1 Fiat (late 1970s)
1 Jaguar X-12 (1987)
1 Chrysler Sebring (1999 – It test drove one, was not impressed — the windshield came to close to the head)
1 Oldsmobile Cutlass (1972 – I tried to buy it)
1 Chevy Cavilear Z (1991)
5 Jeep Wranglers (1990s, 2000s)

There may another couple that I am forgetting. I’m just glad I have had the luxury of being able to forget a few along the way. I just wish the car companies would start mass producing them again.