Dreaming of a convertible? You might be surprised how affordable some are. We've scoured online ads, pricing data, Consumer Reports reliability ratings and owner reviews to determine the best preowned drop-tops under $10,000. Time behind the wheels of test vehicles also informed our choices. Notable and deliberate omissions include the Audi TT and A4, BMW 3-Series, Jeep Wrangler, MINI Cooper and Volkswagen Beetle, which have dubious track records for reliability, according to Consumer Reports. Sure, a used convertible means you might have to pay a bit more in maintenance and repairs, but in light of that the models on this list are the safest bets for fun in the sun on a shoestring budget.
2003-2004 BMW Z4
Edmunds.com True Market Value: $8,502 – $9,119
BMW's Z4 Roadster convertible caused a ruckus when it debuted in 2003. Its "flame surfacing" shape — the expression BMW used to describe the concave and convex surfaces of its bodywork — marked the beginning of a new era in BMW design. The Z4 is well balanced and enjoyable to drive, it still looks cool, and it is surprisingly compliant for such a small, tightly sprung sports car. The car came with a choice of two 6-cylinder engines, one more powerful than the other. Both got a significant bump in power for 2006, but cars of that model year are over budget. A manual transmission was standard.
BMW's Z4 Roadster convertible caused a ruckus when it debuted in 2003. Its "flame surfacing" shape — the expression BMW used to describe the concave and convex surfaces of its bodywork — marked the beginning of a new era in BMW design. The Z4 is well balanced and enjoyable to drive, it still looks cool, and it is surprisingly compliant for such a small, tightly sprung sports car. The car came with a choice of two 6-cylinder engines, one more powerful than the other. Both got a significant bump in power for 2006, but cars of that model year are over budget. A manual transmission was standard.
2005-2006 Ford Mustang V6
Edmunds.com True Market Value: $9,233 – $9,561
The Ford Mustang might be crude compared with European convertibles, but it's still great fun. And it's reliable, having garnered Consumer Reports' "Good Bet" used-car rating. The interior looks and feels cheap, and the seats aren't the most comfortable, but the rear-drive layout and strong V6 engine more than make up for it. Although the top isn't as well-insulated and the chassis exhibits more flex over bumps than some pricier BMWs and Porsches, the Mustang feels robust, and it is. The rear seats fold down to expand an already accommodating trunk.
The Ford Mustang might be crude compared with European convertibles, but it's still great fun. And it's reliable, having garnered Consumer Reports' "Good Bet" used-car rating. The interior looks and feels cheap, and the seats aren't the most comfortable, but the rear-drive layout and strong V6 engine more than make up for it. Although the top isn't as well-insulated and the chassis exhibits more flex over bumps than some pricier BMWs and Porsches, the Mustang feels robust, and it is. The rear seats fold down to expand an already accommodating trunk.
2000-2002 Honda S2000
Edmunds.com True Market Value: $6,764 – $8,470
The Honda S2000 is special. Production was limited and ran from 2000 through 2009. It feels like a race car, starting with its tiny steering wheel and minimalist dashboard. Shifting the stubby lever of the 6-speed manual transmission is quick and precise. But the main attraction is a high-revving 240-horsepower 4-cylinder engine that screams beautifully to a 9000-rpm redline. It's all top-end power, so the engine can feel gutless unless you rev the heck out of it. Finding an S2000 in good shape below $10,000 won't be easy. Good news: This is one reliable ride, with a "Good Bet" used-car seal of approval from Consumer Reports.
The Honda S2000 is special. Production was limited and ran from 2000 through 2009. It feels like a race car, starting with its tiny steering wheel and minimalist dashboard. Shifting the stubby lever of the 6-speed manual transmission is quick and precise. But the main attraction is a high-revving 240-horsepower 4-cylinder engine that screams beautifully to a 9000-rpm redline. It's all top-end power, so the engine can feel gutless unless you rev the heck out of it. Finding an S2000 in good shape below $10,000 won't be easy. Good news: This is one reliable ride, with a "Good Bet" used-car seal of approval from Consumer Reports.
1989-2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Edmunds.com True Market Value: $1,500 – $9,451
The Mazda MX-5 Miata single-handedly reignited Americans' fascination with roadsters when it debuted in 1989. Pick any model from among its three generations and you'll have a fun, fuel-efficient ride that is remarkably easy to maintain. Some things to consider: The top is unlined so the ride is noisy, and it's also choppy on the highway, so long trips can be taxing. But it has a small, bulletproof 4-cylinder engine and a slick-shifting manual. Second-generation Miatas (1999-2005) lost the pop-up headlights and plastic rear window of the first generation. Third-generation Miatas (2006 and up) are a bit larger and have the option of an ingenious folding hardtop.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata single-handedly reignited Americans' fascination with roadsters when it debuted in 1989. Pick any model from among its three generations and you'll have a fun, fuel-efficient ride that is remarkably easy to maintain. Some things to consider: The top is unlined so the ride is noisy, and it's also choppy on the highway, so long trips can be taxing. But it has a small, bulletproof 4-cylinder engine and a slick-shifting manual. Second-generation Miatas (1999-2005) lost the pop-up headlights and plastic rear window of the first generation. Third-generation Miatas (2006 and up) are a bit larger and have the option of an ingenious folding hardtop.
Interested in the Mazda MX-5, Schroeder Auto Wholesale, Medford, Oregon has one for sale:
2001-2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Edmunds.com True Market Value: $6,194 – $9,323
When it debuted in 1998, this 2-seater was the first production convertible to have a folding hardtop. At the time, a hardtop that folded into the trunk was considered an engineering feat and made the Mercedes SLK a standout. The 2001 model year is a good place to start your search; that's when Mercedes upgraded the SLK's supercharged 4-cylinder engine to 192 horsepower and started offering a 215-horse V6. A 6-speed manual transmission replaced the previous 5-speed that year as well, with a 5-speed automatic remaining an option. Early SLKs are not as sporty as some 2-seat roadsters, but they're nimble and have a smooth ride.
When it debuted in 1998, this 2-seater was the first production convertible to have a folding hardtop. At the time, a hardtop that folded into the trunk was considered an engineering feat and made the Mercedes SLK a standout. The 2001 model year is a good place to start your search; that's when Mercedes upgraded the SLK's supercharged 4-cylinder engine to 192 horsepower and started offering a 215-horse V6. A 6-speed manual transmission replaced the previous 5-speed that year as well, with a 5-speed automatic remaining an option. Early SLKs are not as sporty as some 2-seat roadsters, but they're nimble and have a smooth ride.
Interested in the Mercedes-Benz SLK, Mercedes Benz of Medford, Oregon has one for sale:
2004-2005 Nissan 350Z Roadster
Estimated price range: $8,500 – $9,999*
The Nissan 350Z filled a void in the market when it launched in 2003 as a no-compromise sports car at an affordable price. The Roadster debuted in 2004 and ran through 2009. Although several pricing guides put it out of our $10,000 range, a look at AutoTrader and other online listings turned up examples for less than $10,000. Unlike the less powerful Mazda MX-5 Miata, the 350Z legitimately competes with pricier German sports cars, thanks to a smooth and strong V6 engine, a well-balanced chassis, and grip that won't quit. A manual 6-speed transmission was standard. The more affordable 2004 and 2005 models produce 287 horsepower.
The Nissan 350Z filled a void in the market when it launched in 2003 as a no-compromise sports car at an affordable price. The Roadster debuted in 2004 and ran through 2009. Although several pricing guides put it out of our $10,000 range, a look at AutoTrader and other online listings turned up examples for less than $10,000. Unlike the less powerful Mazda MX-5 Miata, the 350Z legitimately competes with pricier German sports cars, thanks to a smooth and strong V6 engine, a well-balanced chassis, and grip that won't quit. A manual 6-speed transmission was standard. The more affordable 2004 and 2005 models produce 287 horsepower.
1997-2001 Porsche Boxster
Edmunds.com True Market Value: $6,773 – $8,635
The most affordable Porsche of all is arguably superior to the pricier and more powerful 911 because its midengine layout gives better weight distribution throughout the car, compared with the 911's rear-engine setup. The Boxster base trim didn't have a lot of power in its early years, but the Boxster S that debuted in 2000 puts out 250 ponies. There's nothing like the ripping sound of Porsche's 6-cylinder engines -- especially with the top down. The Spartan interior is deceptively accommodating, and dual trunks — one in front and one in back — offer surprising utility. Consumer Reports rates the Boxster a "Good Bet" in terms of reliability.
The most affordable Porsche of all is arguably superior to the pricier and more powerful 911 because its midengine layout gives better weight distribution throughout the car, compared with the 911's rear-engine setup. The Boxster base trim didn't have a lot of power in its early years, but the Boxster S that debuted in 2000 puts out 250 ponies. There's nothing like the ripping sound of Porsche's 6-cylinder engines -- especially with the top down. The Spartan interior is deceptively accommodating, and dual trunks — one in front and one in back — offer surprising utility. Consumer Reports rates the Boxster a "Good Bet" in terms of reliability.
2005-2006 Saab 9-3 convertible
Edmunds.com True Market Value: $7,864 – $9,891
Saab has always been an innovator and an upstream swimmer, turbocharging its engines decades ahead of other automakers to foster power and preserve fuel economy. But after General Motors took a major stake in the Swedish company in 1989, and then full ownership in 2000, perceptions went downhill, making the last iteration of the 9-3 an unsung hero. It's a great car with solid driving dynamics. The final generation ran from 2004 through 2011, but avoid the 2004, as Consumer Reports data indicate it to be troublesome. That leaves the 2005 and 2006 models within our budget. A network of 179 service centers provides parts and maintenance for the defunct brand.
Saab has always been an innovator and an upstream swimmer, turbocharging its engines decades ahead of other automakers to foster power and preserve fuel economy. But after General Motors took a major stake in the Swedish company in 1989, and then full ownership in 2000, perceptions went downhill, making the last iteration of the 9-3 an unsung hero. It's a great car with solid driving dynamics. The final generation ran from 2004 through 2011, but avoid the 2004, as Consumer Reports data indicate it to be troublesome. That leaves the 2005 and 2006 models within our budget. A network of 179 service centers provides parts and maintenance for the defunct brand.
2000-2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder
Edmunds.com True Market Value: $4,825 – $9,754
This is an obscure little car, but one worth considering for those who want a tiny topless toy to take out on weekends. It was sold for only five years in the United States, and odd styling combined with no trunk to speak of were among the quirks that kept it from becoming a widespread success. It offered a 138-horsepower 4-cylinder engine mounted just behind the seats in a midengine configuration, which gave it great balance and driving dynamics. A 5-speed manual was initially the only transmission offered. The MR2 Spyder is an appealing contender, bolstered by Toyota's reputation for quality and reliability.
Interested in the Toyota MR2 Spyder, Schroeder Auto Wholesale, Medford, Oregon has one for sale:
http://www.schroederauto.com/ZInv_ID280_2001-Toyota-MR2-Spyder-2dr-Conv-Manual.aspx
This is an obscure little car, but one worth considering for those who want a tiny topless toy to take out on weekends. It was sold for only five years in the United States, and odd styling combined with no trunk to speak of were among the quirks that kept it from becoming a widespread success. It offered a 138-horsepower 4-cylinder engine mounted just behind the seats in a midengine configuration, which gave it great balance and driving dynamics. A 5-speed manual was initially the only transmission offered. The MR2 Spyder is an appealing contender, bolstered by Toyota's reputation for quality and reliability.
Interested in the Toyota MR2 Spyder, Schroeder Auto Wholesale, Medford, Oregon has one for sale:
http://www.schroederauto.com/ZInv_ID280_2001-Toyota-MR2-Spyder-2dr-Conv-Manual.aspx
2000-2006 Toyota Camry Solara Convertible
Edmunds.com True Market Value: $5,330 – $10,421
There has to be one sedate car in every bunch, right? The Toyota Camry Solara follows a familiar, frumpy formula: Take a popular family sedan, remove the rear doors and roof, and presto -- canned convertible. It has a roomy interior, a spacious trunk and a comfy ride. It's also extremely reliable. Truth be told, there are probably more people who would enjoy owning this car than the more extreme rides on this list. Look for 2002 or earlier models if you want the sportiest combination of the optional V6 engine combined with a manual. Consumer Reports' retail pricing data show 2005 to be the cutoff for models less than $10,000, but online listings suggest otherwise.
Matthew de Paula wanted to be an automotive journalist ever since reading his first car magazine in grade school. After a brief stint writing about finance, he helped launch ForbesAutos.com and became the site's editor in 2006. Matthew now freelances for various outlets.
There has to be one sedate car in every bunch, right? The Toyota Camry Solara follows a familiar, frumpy formula: Take a popular family sedan, remove the rear doors and roof, and presto -- canned convertible. It has a roomy interior, a spacious trunk and a comfy ride. It's also extremely reliable. Truth be told, there are probably more people who would enjoy owning this car than the more extreme rides on this list. Look for 2002 or earlier models if you want the sportiest combination of the optional V6 engine combined with a manual. Consumer Reports' retail pricing data show 2005 to be the cutoff for models less than $10,000, but online listings suggest otherwise.
Matthew de Paula wanted to be an automotive journalist ever since reading his first car magazine in grade school. After a brief stint writing about finance, he helped launch ForbesAutos.com and became the site's editor in 2006. Matthew now freelances for various outlets.
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