Ten cars without windscreens: a good idea or a safety risk?

The windscreen is one of the key elements for increasing car safety. Not only does it prevent the wind from interfering with driving, but it also provides structural reinforcement to the roof and offers greater safety to the driver and the car’s occupants. Yet there are cars that do without this element and are considered high-end cars: sports cars with no roof, where the lack of this element is an important part of their appeal. But is it a good idea to enhance their image or is it a safety risk?

Although these cars are sports cars that one might think are intended to race on the track, it must be borne in mind that they should always be used with a helmet. A stone thrown up by the vehicle ahead, or even an object carried by the wind, can cause a distraction or even injury to the driver and lead to an accident.

So, even if it is a car designed for the track, one must count on a windscreen that isolates the driver from the outside and protects them from the weather, from the effect of air at certain speeds and even from objects that may strike unexpectedly. But even so, there are several cars that lack a windscreen, although one can be added as an optional extra. Here are some of them, according to a list provided by Carglass.

Lamborghini SC20

This model from the brand was created at the exclusive request of a client. It has no windscreen but, according to the brand, its design helps reduce the impact of air on the driver and occupants. It uses a V12 engine producing 770 CV, so it is something to bear in mind when you want to get the most out of its performance.

McLaren Elva

This car uses a “virtual bubble” that captures the air, channels it through the interior and expels it through outlets located on the bonnet. According to the brand, this keeps the driver protected and allows driving at speeds of up to 120 km/h without a helmet. Of course, above that speed this element becomes indispensable. It can be purchased with a windscreen at no additional cost.

Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2

Ferrari has also added two special models with these characteristics to its range. Only a few people, however, will be able to enjoy them. The design of both cars means that the air at the front is captured through intakes, circulated and pushed upwards, creating an air shield that prevents it from entering in a way that could harm the occupants.

Aston Martin V12 Speedster

Only 88 units of this model will be built, and they will end up in the garages of collectors around the world. It is a car without a windscreen, equipped with a 700 CV V12 engine that accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 300 km/h.

Lotus Eleven 430

Only 20 units of this model will be built. Instead of a windscreen it will have a deflector that reduces the impact of wind on the driver’s face. It weighs 920 kg and will reach 290 km/h.

Dallara Stradale

This is the brand’s first road model and it has no windscreen, although it offers an option that adds one made of polycarbonate with a carbon fibre frame, roof and doors. All of it, of course, at a price that exceeds that of many cars.

Ariel Atom

It is a cult car for those who want pure driving. It has no windscreen, but nor does it have a roof, doors or windows. It has a small element called an “aero screen” that protects the driver to a very limited extent, but its effect is very limited.

Caterham Seven 620R i

This model is based on the Lotus Seven of the 1950s of the last century. The windscreen is an optional element for a car that weighs 520 kg and whose engine produces 300 CV.

KTM X-Bow

This two-seater was born to be used on the track, although it is homologated for use on the road. It has no windscreen and a helmet is not compulsory, although the brand recommends one. There is a GT version that does have a windscreen and other elements the base version lacks, in case you fancy a car that is “more fully equipped“.

Polaris Slingshot S

The last of the windscreenless cars we are reviewing is a three-wheeler that offers a fairly striking driving experience. It produces 178 CV, which gives very attractive performance thanks to its low weight. It also offers the option of fitting a windscreen, so it is worth paying attention to this detail.