HARKING back to the film-star glamour of luxury convertible four-seater Mercedes-Benz boulevard cruisers, the German manufacturer has relaunched its Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet. Unmistakeable, exclusive design, fine materials with maximum high-class appeal in the interior and state-of-the-art technology in the S-Class characterise the concept behind both cabriolets.

Optional equipment includes Aircap wind protection and an Airscarf neck-level heating system, while other AMG-only add-ons include 19-inch forged alloy wheels shod with 255/45 front and 285/40 rear tyres. Heated armrests and seats, plus intelligent fully automated climate control further enhance the new S-Class Cabriolet’s creature comforts.

The Tuscaloosa facility handles production of numerous models, including the new GLE SUV and the C-Class limousine and Mercedes has already freed up additional production slots on its lines there by commissioning a plant in Indiana owned by AM General LLC to handle the build of its large R-Class MPV. These included the 170 S (W 136) from 1949, the 220 (W 187) from 1951 and the 300 S (W 188) from 1952.

United Kingdom pricing for the auto has yet to be announced, however Mercedes does say that the new vehicle will cost a premium over the equivalent coupe models, while estimates put the entry-level S500 Cabriolet at around £110,000.

In the first eight months of 2015, China sales of Mercedes-Benz rose by 30 percent year-on-year to more than 227,000 cars.

While it is possible to create a auto that could change its shape on paper, we may have to wait until Mercedes Benz creates an actual vehicle that lives up to the promise. Examples of this are the cabriolets from model series 111 whose values are cited by the renowned American Hagerty Insurance’s price guide. But that is by no means the pinnacle: for instance, a specimen of this model in excellent condition was auctioned last August by RM Auctions for 429,000 US$.

Inside the cabin, the same similarities as on the outside will make their way in.