Roadster

A roadster, also known as a spyder or spider, is a two-seat car, traditionally without either a roof, side or rear windows.

Most modern day two-seaters have windows and feature retractable roofs (and are thus convertibles). While retractable soft-tops are nevertheless marketed as roadsters/spyders, retractable hard-tops are commonly designated as coupe roadsters.

History

Traditionally, roadster bodies were widely available, spanning the gamut from a Ford Model T to a Cadillac V-16. They are popular with collectors, often valued higher than even other open styles.

Hot rod roadsters

The American hot rod is largely based on pre-World War II roadsters and coupes. Late run Model Ts and 1932 Fords are the most popular starting points.

Modern roadsters

Though not a true roadster - it came with both an attached convertible roof and roll-down side windows - the introduction of the Mazda MX-5 in 1989 is largely credited with the resurgence of roadsters. <ref name="edmunds">Template:Citation/core{{#if:|}}</ref>

See also

• Barchetta, a related two-seater body style designed primarily for racing
• Convertible, the general term to describe vehicles with retractable roofs
• Hot rod

References

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