Summer Driving: The Best Classic Cars for Open Roads
When the sun is out and the roads are clear, few things compare to the joy of driving a classic car with the roof down and the engine singing. From timeless British roadsters to elegant European convertibles, the summer months are when classics truly come alive. If you’re considering adding a classic to your collection, or simply daydreaming about the perfect summer drive, here are some of the best classic cars for open-road motoring.
Alfa Romeo Spider
From the late 1960s through the 1990s, the Alfa Romeo Spider was the epitome of Italian flair. Light, agile, and powered by a lively twin-cam engine, it offers an engaging drive at more affordable prices than many of its contemporaries. Made famous by The Graduate, the Spider is perfect for a sun-drenched weekend trip.
1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia 1600 Spider | £65,000.00
Jaguar E-Type Roadster
Often described as the most beautiful car ever made, the Jaguar E-Type Roadster was built for summer driving. With its long bonnet, sleek lines, and responsive straight-six engine, the E-Type combines elegance with excitement. Few cars capture the romance of a winding coastal road quite like this 1960s icon.
1973 Jaguar E-Type Series 3 Roadster | Estimated Price: £45,000 - £50,000
Mercedes-Benz SL (W113 “Pagoda”)
The Mercedes SL Pagoda, produced between 1963 and 1971, is one of the most stylish convertibles of its era. Its distinctive concave hardtop and smooth inline-six engines made it a favourite among celebrities and jet-setters. Comfortable, reliable, and graceful, the SL remains a superb choice for summer cruising today.
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagode | €129,500.00
Porsche 911 Targa
For drivers who want the thrill of a sports car with the flexibility of open-air motoring, the Porsche 911 Targa is an ideal choice. First launched in 1965, the Targa’s removable roof section offered a unique blend of coupe rigidity and convertible fun. Modern classics from the 1980s and 1990s are particularly sought after today.
1991 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Targa Reimagined by Singer | POA
Triumph TR6
A quintessential British roadster, the Triumph TR6 delivers simple, honest fun. Produced between 1968 and 1976, the TR6 combines a muscular straight-six with classic roadster proportions. Affordable, easy to maintain, and beloved by enthusiasts, it’s one of the best entry points into classic summer motoring.
1972 Triumph TR6 Overdrive | €24,900.00
Ferrari 275 GTS
For those seeking something more exclusive, the Ferrari 275 GTS offers Italian craftsmanship at its finest. Built in limited numbers between 1964 and 1966, this V12-powered cabriolet delivers performance, beauty, and rarity in equal measure. It remains one of the most desirable summer classics for collectors worldwide.
Why Summer and Classics Belong Together
Classic cars are about more than just driving; they’re about experiences. Summer provides the perfect backdrop to appreciate these machines:
Open roads free from winter grit and salt
Warm weather that makes roof-down driving irresistible
Events and shows at their peak, offering chances to connect with other enthusiasts
Whether it’s a British roadster, an Italian convertible, or a German icon, the joy of summer classics lies in their ability to turn any journey into a memory.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever wondered which car would best suit your summer adventures, these classics represent some of the finest choices. From affordable Triumphs to investment-grade Ferraris, the market is filled with options to suit different tastes and budgets.
So, what is the best classic car for summer? The answer depends on your style, but one thing is certain: with the right car and the right road, summer driving will always feel timeless.
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