The world is divided into two groups of people: those who at some point give in to their basic human desire to own a convertible, and those who don’t. There is one main difference between these two groups. Those with the wind and sun in their faces as they zoom handily around curves are much, much happier.
The good news is you don’t need to pay full price for a new convertible when popular used models are available. Here we describe a few of the most popular models.
Check out the neat little 2007 Honda S2000 roadster. Perhaps light-looking at first, it will amaze you with its 240-horsepower engine, smooth shifting and perfect steering. Its high revving ability – redlining at 8,200 rpm – makes it a ton of fun to drive on the open road, so you may not want to waste this charming little two-seater on stop-and-go traffic.
If you’re hoping for something with a little more heft, take a look at Mustang’s GT convertible, 2005-2009. While other Mustang models offer a V6 engine that feels clunky and inefficient, the GT’s V8 will make a crucial difference in your driving experience. It also offers good cornering and excellent straight-line ability. You’ll be the envy of everyone about town in this seductive, tough-looking, extremely fun ride.
If you’re looking for great fuel efficiency and good times in your used convertible, there are many different models to choose from. Consider the Volkswagon Eos, 2007-2010. Its sleek good looks surpass those of its cousins, the Beetle and Cabriolet – though those also come in fuel-efficient, drop-top models. However, it’s cheaper and more fuel efficient than most of the models that immediately come to mind – yet you’ll still turn heads as you zoom around in this four seater.
Even better on the fuel scale, and yet managing to be respectable in terms of looks and power, the Mini Cooper S offers four seats and a great little turbo engine. Though you may not be able to shake the “cute” tag in this ride, you’ll get 28 mpg city and 36 highway, tough to beat in any model, and extremely desirable in a sporty convertible.
Fuel efficiency and luxury can go together – just ask owners of the Audi TT Roadster Quattro, 2005-2010. These models offer “turbocharged fuel stratified injection,” a system that brings you increased power and cleaner emissions. You can’t really go wrong with that. The “quattro” in the name refers to four-wheel drive. It’s also hard to top the good looks and sigh-provoking appeal of this glamorous yet grounded two-seater.
So enjoy your journey into the wonderful world of convertibles. Research the ones that strike your fancy, and test drive as many as you can before you buy. You might as well enjoy careening around corners while your eyes fill with wind-induced tears and your heart fills with joy. Remember that you’re indulging one of the basic human desires: to own a convertible.