A drive mechanism for an open roof construction includes a stationary guide part defining a first guide channel, a bracket having a forward end and a rearward end. The forward end includes a guide shoe cooperating with the first guide channel. A lifting unit cooperates with the rearward end of the bracket to lift/lower said rearward end and slide the bracket relative to the lifting unit. A driven slide moves relative to the stationary guide part and is configured to move the guide shoe along the first guide channel and is further configured to lift/lower the rearward end of the bracket. A panel carrier is supported by the bracket and slides in a direction substantially corresponding with the direction of the sliding movement of the bracket. The driven slide is configured to cause the sliding movement of a panel carrier relative to the bracket.