Total Car Score names the top 10 convertibles for 2012

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LOS ANGELES — Just in time for the start of summer, Total Car Score (totalcarscore . com), an automotive ranking and comparison website, announced its list of the top 10 convertible cars for 2012.

“There is nothing quite like that first drive of summer with the top down. In honor of that tradition, Total Car Score has put together a list showcasing seasonal vehicles that are synonymous with summer fun,” said Karl Brauer, editor in chief, founder and CEO of Total Car Score. “The best convertible car rankings are based on a validated Total Car Score for each vehicle, meaning the vehicle has at least five ratings from independent automotive authorities.”

Convertibles used to represent a tiny fraction of the automotive market, but in recent years the variety of drop-tops has increased dramatically with available soft- and hard-top convertibles, four-door convertibles and coupes. They range in price from $18,000 (smart fortwo) to as high as $450,000 (Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead), but eight of the top 10 cost between $27,000 and $50,000.

Total Car Score allows car buyers and enthusiasts alike to compare vehicles quickly and easily across all automotive segments. The “total car score” is one comprehensive number assigned to a vehicle that represents an overall industry assessment from major automotive authorities.

“European carmakers have mastered the art of the convertible, with eight of the top-scoring models coming from Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mini and Volkswagen,” Brauer said.

The 2012 Ford Mustang is the only domestic vehicle to make Total Car Score’s list, placing third. There is also one Japanese convertible in the top 10; the Lexus IS 250/350 lands in ninth place.

The top 10 convertibles for 2012 are:

1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class

2. Infiniti G

3. Ford Mustang

4. Audi R8

5. BMW 3 Series

6. Mini Cooper

7. BMW 1 Series

8. Volkswagen EOS

9. Lexus IS 250/350

10. Audi A5

PRNewswire