2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class-Cabriolet side view

Is a cabriolet different from a coupe vehicle?

Definition of cabriolet vs coupe models from Mercedes-Benz 

Is a cabriolet different from a coupe vehicle? You may wonder this as you search through the many Mercedes-Benz models with one of these terms in their titles. The answer is yes, a cabriolet is different from a coupe, and we’ll tell you why below. You can find Mercedes-Benz cabriolet and coupe models here at Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead in Peoria, AZ. 


2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class-Cabriolet steering wheel and dashboard

What is a Mercedes-Benz cabriolet vehicle? 

A cabriolet model is the same thing as a convertible model. Mercedes-Benz originated in Germany, so it is no surprise that they sometimes use cabriolet instead of convertible to describe a vehicle, as cabriolet is a foreign term. If you aren’t familiar with a convertible, it is a vehicle that allows you to retract the roof, converting the car from the standard form to an open-top vehicle. 

What is a Mercedes-Benz coupe vehicle? 

The main characteristic that defines a coupe is that it has two doors. On the other hand, convertible or cabriolet vehicles also only have two doors. However, a coupe vehicle has a hard-top roof that does not retract. To further complicate things, a coupe convertible or coupe cabriolet is a vehicle with a retractable hard-top roof. 

2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class-Cabriolet seats

Mercedes-Benz coupe vs cabriolet vehicles 

While some people may use terms interchangeably, you’ll see that Mercedes-Benz does keep the distinction clear. Mercedes-Benz coupe vehicles have nonretractable hard-top roofs. Mercedes-Benz cabriolet models offer soft-top retractable roofs. Therefore, you should look at cabriolets if you want to drive with the roof down or choose a coupe if you prefer the traditional roof style. 

With so many models, Mercedes-Benz offers something for everyone. If you ever need help with Mercedes-Benz terminology and model differences, contact a member of our team.