The British summer is just about here — the sun is coming out for its one week of the year, and now might just be the time to capitalise on that by nabbing yourself a drop-top car.
Better still, you don’t need to spend a packet in order to get that wind-in-your-hair experience, which is why we’ve picked out some of the best convertibles that you can get your hands on for under £2,000.
MG TF
This end of the market is rife with well-priced and decently specced MG TF’s. Most come with a peppy 1.8-litre engine under the bonnet, and all have a folding cloth roof. It’s still a relatively handsome looking car even now, and looks to have aged well.
We’ve found a number for well under our £2,000 budget with only (albeit tired looking) example coming in at under £500. We wouldn’t advise going for something this low priced, though if its history checks out and the car looks straight enough, then there’s no reason why it couldn’t be a decent low-cost runner.
Citroen C3 Pluriel
Okay, just bear with us on this one. The C3 Pluriel was somewhat of an oddball; designed to be five cars in one, it wasn’t hugely successful. However, this does mean that you can pick up some pretty tidy examples on the used market and though they may not have a sports car design, you still get that drop-top experience at a very low price.
Most cars get alloy wheels and air conditioning, but make sure that the folding roof is functioning correctly – this is a crucial area to check.
Mercedes SLK
We’ve stepped up a notch now. Yes, we’ll admit that buying a used Mercedes (particularly in this price bracket) can be a little bit of a minefield thanks to higher repair costs and pricier parts, but choose carefully and you can find yourself a steal.
The SLK is a case in point. You’ll likely be looking at an early 2000s model, but expect to get boatloads of equipment for the money, including electronically-adjustable seats and cruise control. However, decent servicing history is essential here – a poor maintenance record could prove costly in the future.
Toyota MR2
The little MR2 isn’t a bad idea if you’re after no-frills but involving motoring. Powered by a 1.8-litre engine it’s got plenty enough performance to excite, and its compact size makes it feel perfectly nimble out on the road.
There is a drawback, however. The MR2 lacks any real boot, so it’s not exactly the last word in practicality. That said, there are a variety of different examples available within this budget, and most are in reasonably good nick.
Mazda MX-5
It’s a bit of a no-brainer, this one. The MX-5, throughout its various incarnations, has proved to be a reliable, cheap-to-repair convertible. With fans all over the world, it’s a go-to choice for those who want a relatively involving drive coupled with compact dimensions.
Rust is an issue, particularly on early models – so keep a sharp eye out for this. However, find a clean model, and it’ll provide many miles of trouble-free motoring.
Mini Convertible
When the ‘new’ Mini first came out, it proved immensely popular – and things haven’t changed much since. When a convertible version was launched, it was snapped up consumers as a result of its cutesy styling and reasonably powerful range of engines.
These can now be picked up for well within our £2,000 budget. Make sure that the interior is straight, and listen out for strange noises from the power steering pump – these can often fail on older cars, and are costly to replace.
Saab 9-3
With Saab now a carmaker of the past, few consider its cars when looking at the used market. However, the 9-3 convertible is a great option for those wanting to go for a comfortable and spacious drop-top.
In addition, there are plenty of spare parts and components, so you should have to worry about replacing anything, despite Saab’s now defunct status.
Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet
Almost matching the Mini in the retro-styling department is this – the Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet. Most cars come comprehensively equipped, with air conditioning and alloy wheels just some of the extras you’ll find fitted to the Bug.
The arrangement of the folding cloth hood drew some criticism – mainly for the way the fabric lies strangely at the rear of the car when collapsed – but this shouldn’t put you off, as the Beetle is a decent and reliable soft-top.
BMW 3 Series Convertible (E46)
There are a lot of examples of 3 Series convertibles to be found at this budget. The most common are E46 models – though this is no bad thing, as they’re sturdy and excellent to drive. A variety of engines are available too, with even the top end straight-six models well in this price bracket.
If you’re planning on purchasing one, double check the arches as these are prone to rust. In addition, turn the steering lock to lock while travelling at low speed and listen out for any troubling knocking noises.
Audi TT Roadster
There aren’t many about in this price range, but the Audi TT Roadster is a fine option. Strong build quality, reliable engines and quirky styling mean that this soft-top still looks and feels fresh today.
Yes, at this price you’ll be looking at a high-mileage example, but providing it’s got a decent service history there’s no reason why these can’t be hassle-free convertibles.