<P> A convertible or cabriolet (/ ˌkæbriːoʊˈleɪ /; KA - bree - oh - LAY) is an automobile body style that can convert between an open - air mode and an enclosed one, varying in degree and means by model . Convertibles evolved from the earlier phaeton, an open vehicle without glass side windows that sometimes had removable panels of fabric or other material for protection from the elements . </P> <P> Historically, a retractable roof consisted of an articulated frame covered with a folding, textile - based fabric similar to that on an open carriage evolved into the most common form . A lesser seen detachable hardtop provided a more weatherproof and secure alternative . As technology improved, a retractable hardtop which removes and stows its own rigid roof in its trunk appeared, increasingly becoming the most popular form . </P>

What do you call a car without a roof