LexFather

http://www.motorauthority.com/califo...onversion.html



Mercedes Benz has hinted at the development of a convertible version of its CL flagship as far back as 2007 but still today there is no such model in the automaker’s lineup. Customers tired of waiting can still purchase a CL Cabrio thanks to the guys at California’s Newport Convertible Engineering, which offers a customized CL with its steel roof replaced by an automated folding soft-top.

Making a convertible out of a hardtop involves much more than chopping off the steel roof and designing a folding mechanism for the cloth top. Removing the steel top robs a car of a tremendous amount of structural rigidity that must be restored before the resulting soft-top can be deemed drivable. Every convertible built by the Californian coachbuilder includes significant structural upgrades to ensure the cars are equal to factory-built convertibles in terms of rigidity and roadworthiness.

Admittedly, the custom CL Cabrio looks rather stylish and would no doubt stand out from the crowd in any suburban district. Pricing for standard two-door convertible conversions typically range from $10,000 to $15,000, however, some projects Newport Convertible Engineering has worked on has run up into the six figure sums.

Some of the other extreme convertible makeovers offered by Newport Convertible Engineering include a Maybach 57 four-door convertible, and drop-top versions of the Cadillac Escalade and Toyota Prius.

LexusChris

iTrader: (1)

Looks pretty darn good, I would like to do that if I had a CL. Of course I don't know if it's worth it in NY considering good weather is only a few months a year.

plex

iTrader: (11)

Looks good roofless but I don't like how the automated soft top sits unless pic was taken when it was not fully secured.

Allen K

iTrader: (4)

I checked their website and that's pretty much how all of their convertible tops sit

PhilipMSPT

iTrader: (5)

A convertible isn't simply a coupe with top shaved off.

It needs extensive body frame support for rigidity, enhanced safety features, and altered aerodynamics. Even though the developers have "modified" the car, I would still be cautious and reluctant...

rominl

iTrader: (4)

looks bad with the top like that, if it's hidden i think it'd look pretty darn good

bruce van

The top sitting on the trunk lid looks terrible. Reminds me of a sagging dirty diaper.

Stage3

iTrader: (3)

Nope... Try again.

Faymester

Well, it's a coachbuilder that did the mod. Coaches don't have hidden & tucked away roofs.

IS-SV

That's a mess.

Amini9

100% true, that what he was looking for.

+1, i'll keep my coupe CL if i buy one.

Mbenz528i

They are almost there, ALMOST! Get rid of the lagging rag and we can talk. In the mean time, MB, you paying attention?

jracerlmn

they actually did a survey about 5 years ago wondering if anyone would be interested in a CL convertible.

The response was that 90% of CLs bought were by MB owners that already owned two other MBs, namely the S and the SL. There's no reason to spend money and time developing something that very few people will buy.

I8ABMR

mercedes offers a plethora of convertible models, and the engineering in that top look a little shotty. I think I would stick to what mercedes offers. I like the wheels and the model they chose, but not the look of the jerry rigged convertible top