Photo: Lexus
Well, if the Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG is almost pushing Lexus to create a powerful NX turbo model, the BMW M4 convertible is the reason we’ll get an RC F cabrio.
The news come from a recent Lexus USA National Dealer Meeting in Los Angeles according to AutoGuide, who have been told by an anonymous source that Lexus announced a high performance convertible version of the RC. No standard version mentioned though.
If it’s going to happen, this will be the third Lexus convertible in 25 years, after the defunct SC model and the currently on sale IS C.
Even if BMW wouldn’t have interfered with its M4 drop top, a convertible RC model could have naturally been spawned. That’s because there’s already an IS C, which is a two-door cabrio based on the second generation IS sedan. And the RC now is basically the coupe version of the third generation IS - kinda’ like the automaker did it the other way around, and created the coupe before the drop top.
So, if the tradition is continued, the convertible RC would make a lot of sense in the lineup. The only problem is the performance drop.
Now, the M4 convertible weighs 4,023 lb (1,825 kg), 493 lb (223 kg) more than the coupe. Considering the best case scenario and Lexus’ drop top system along with other chassis reinforcements will add the same weight to the RC F convertible, this will weight 4,451 lb (2,019 kg)!
Of course, the RC F coupe feels quite nimble on the track, but it definitely doesn’t go as sharply as the Bimmer. Which means the convertible version will probably turn itself into a great looking, awesome sounding grand tourer to coast in on the riviera. Not that you'll ever buy a convertible to go racing in it. Just sayin'...
If it’s going to happen, this will be the third Lexus convertible in 25 years, after the defunct SC model and the currently on sale IS C.
Even if BMW wouldn’t have interfered with its M4 drop top, a convertible RC model could have naturally been spawned. That’s because there’s already an IS C, which is a two-door cabrio based on the second generation IS sedan. And the RC now is basically the coupe version of the third generation IS - kinda’ like the automaker did it the other way around, and created the coupe before the drop top.
So, if the tradition is continued, the convertible RC would make a lot of sense in the lineup. The only problem is the performance drop.
Too god damn heavy
It came as a shock earlier this year when the RC F was revealed tipping the scales at 3,958 lb (1,795 kg), which comparing to the 3,530 lb (1,601 kg) M4, is already 428 lb (194 kg) heavier. That is like your RC F already comes with two average sized rear passengers.Now, the M4 convertible weighs 4,023 lb (1,825 kg), 493 lb (223 kg) more than the coupe. Considering the best case scenario and Lexus’ drop top system along with other chassis reinforcements will add the same weight to the RC F convertible, this will weight 4,451 lb (2,019 kg)!
Of course, the RC F coupe feels quite nimble on the track, but it definitely doesn’t go as sharply as the Bimmer. Which means the convertible version will probably turn itself into a great looking, awesome sounding grand tourer to coast in on the riviera. Not that you'll ever buy a convertible to go racing in it. Just sayin'...
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