Latest news with #convertibles
Irish Times
16-07-2025
- Automotive
- Irish Times
Mini Cooper S Convertible review: This soft-top proves that open air is better
I'm coming around to a new way of thinking. All cars should be convertibles. This has not been my way of thinking in the past. Previously, I was always a coupé kinda guy. I liked having a solid roof over my head, and coupes almost always look cooler and more elegant than their soft-top cousins. Don't believe me? Jaguar F-Type. That's the argument. However, I'm now – sort of – arguing with myself. I've been thinking that convertibles ought to be offered by the HSE on prescription. Feeling a bit blue? Here, take a bright red sports car for the weekend and see how you feel. Yes, I know, it rains a lot here and truly hot sunny days are rare, but then again, we also get plenty of dry, mild days, and those are perfect for convertible driving. Convertibles such as this new Mini Cooper S Convertible. It's perhaps not quite the cure-all for what ails you, but it's still sufficiently charming and engaging that it would certainly take your mind off a bad day. [ Mini Aceman EV review: this is one car you'll definitely want to take on the open road, but mind the range Opens in new window ] This week, there haven't been many bad days – weather-wise, at any rate, so the Mini's roof has been down a lot. In fact, thanks to the open-air timer function (yes, a real thing that tells you how long you've had your roof down for), I've racked up several hours of topless motoring. READ MORE This Mini Convertible is a bit of a hybrid, and I don't mean it has batteries. Quite the opposite. In fact, while it has been given the smoother bodywork and nicer interior of the new all-electric Mini, this Mini is actually the old Mini – it's still based on the old UKL1 front-wheel drive platform, and still built in Mini's traditional home of BMW's factory in Oxford, rather than in China, which is where the electric Mini hatch is built. Because this isn't the electric version, it means that you still get an old-fashioned petrol engine, which in this Mini Cooper S means a 201hp turbocharged 2.0-litre. You can sacrifice a bit of power and save yourself a bundle of cash by going for the basic Cooper C model, which uses a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo engine, with a still-respectable 163hp. Personally? I'd take the 40hp hit, not least because it would save you the guts of €7,000 on the basic price tag. Cars have been getting way too expensive in the past few years – some price tags are truly in the realm of the ridiculous now – but the Mini Convertible's pricing kind of bifurcates between its two models. The basic Cooper C, with the smaller engine, starts from €36,730, which is no one's idea of cheap, but neither is it wildly expensive for something small, sporty, and alfresco. This Cooper S is in a different pricing league, starting at €43,990, and our test car was optioned up to a massive €55,461, which is well and truly across the border of not being worth it. However, if the national health services can bargain hard with pharmaceutical suppliers to bring down the cost of a drug, then so too could they, I'm sure, wangle a discount out of Mini. And the results would be profound. Mini Cooper S Convertible Mini Cooper S Convertible Sit into the new Mini Convertible, and it's a bit like a Georgian house with a home cinema and solar panels – ancient underneath, but with mod-cons. The highlight of which is the big 9.5-inch OLED screen in the centre of the dash, which is the size and shape of a Goodfella's pizza. Normally, I'm no great lover of touchscreens, but this one has something that most others don't – charm. Its very circularity, a nod to the central speedo of the original 1959 Mini, gives it a refreshingly different look to any other screen, while the graphics are top notch and beautifully rendered. Is it too often too fiddly to use safely on the move? Yes, but it's far from the worst in that regard, and the way it integrates the likes of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is wonderful. Thankfully, our car had the optional driver's head-up display, which helps you to be less distracted by the big screen when you're driving. There's a little strip of physical buttons below the screen, which manage stereo volume, gear selection (no more manual Minis – booo!), driving modes (which Mini irritatingly calls 'Experiences' and which make annoying whoosh-y noises when you change them), and starting and stopping the engine, which you do by twisting a key-shaped switch, like an old ignition key. Which rather begs the question, why not just use an ignition key? Equally thankfully you can now use the screen to change the pattern of the LED rear lights, meaning you don't have to drive around with a Union flag on your backside any more, while the knitted covering for the dash – made from recycled plastics – looks and feels more welcoming than the black plastic of old. The roof powers up or down in around 18 seconds, at speeds of up to 30km/h, or you can leave it up and just open a sunroof-like portion at the front, which you can do at any speed. Fully-opened, the Mini really is a convertible, with no roof rails left in place, and a button which drops both door windows and the little quarterlights behind. The roof does sit slightly bunched up on the back of the car, but it's not too pram-like. Mini Cooper S Convertible Mini Cooper S Convertible Mini Cooper S Convertible Roof-up, the Mini Convertible is a bit too noisy and rattly for its own good, but roof-down it utterly transforms, or more accurately, you do. You become half-motorist, half-pedestrian, and more likely to give way to other road users because you too are out in the air, more vulnerable to the vicissitudes of life than other drivers. You can have fun in the Mini, although the steering isn't as responsive as it used to be, and the big 18-inch wheels tend to bobble and wiggle around too much in their arches. The ride is pretty dreadful, but on smoother stretches of open road, the engine makes a pleasant bark, and the whole idea of a convertible is to go a little slower to better enjoy the world around you. As an SUV-antidote, the Mini Convertible is near-perfect. The back seats and tiny boot may make it rather less than practical, but then, when was the last time you carried a full set of passengers? Too small for your precious golf clubs? Take up a more interesting hobby. This is a car that reminds you that driving can just be fun. Is it expensive? Yes, but then therapy always is. Lowdown: Mini Cooper S Convertible Power: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 201hp and 300Nm of torque driving the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. 0-100km/h: 6.9 secs. Emissions (motor tax): 150g/km (€270). Fuel consumption: 6.6l/100km (WLTP). Price: €55,461 as tested. Mini Convertible from €36,730.
Forbes
05-07-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
Three Of The Smallest 2025 Cars, Tested
The charms of the pint-sized automobile are many. You can slip in and out of tight parking spaces with ease. They're (mostly) affordable. Friends will never say 'Hey, I'm moving this weekend - can I borrow your MX-5?' Here are three recently tested pint-sized vehicles I loved, and why. 2025 Mazda Miata MX-5 2024 Mazda MX-5 Unlike so many cars (and haircuts, and clothes) from the 80s and 90s which seem funny to us today, the long-in-the-tooth MX-5 Miata has never had an awkward stage in all this time, and the 2024 model is still one of the funnest, smartest and affordable peanut convertibles available. What's New for 2025? Light tweaks arrived last year like new exterior lighting elements, an updated grille, and improved wheel designs. A new 8.8-inch infotainment display replaced the outgoing 7.0-inch screen, There's also a 35th Anniversary Edition - a limited-production edition celebrating the Miata's legacy and delivering exclusive design elements like Artisan Red Metallic paint and a tan Nappa leather interior. Pricing starts in the $29,000 range, all the way up to the late 30s with options and delivery charge. Inside It's a tight squeeze, as everyone knows. Getting in and out requires the bit of creativity no matter what size you are. There's almost no room for the little things we cart around, so into the little trunk they go. If you do an overnight, both of you will have to fit your stuff into one suitcase. The nav/audio/climate system worked well. The Miata isn't known for its kickin' audio system. 2025 Mazda MX-5 Mileage It's got better-than-average mileage - 26 MPG City / 34 Highway / 29 Combined. I filled the tank from near-empty with a little more than 20 bucks. The Drive The thrill of the MX-5 has always involved sweetly smashing that standard shift, whipping through K-turns, slipping through tiny spaces in between the other cars and generally enjoying yourself. You're not ferocious in any way, but you get that delicious thrill and feeling of freedom the MX-5 provides. You'll get some decent velocity at blast-offs by giving it lots of gas and winding quickly through the gears, but this is not a car that's in any type of hurry. You'll think you're doing 65 but you'll see you're only doing 45. Not a problem. Would you want the MX-5 in a snowstorm? No. But that's true of any little sports car. Room for improvement The cabin is so loud even with the top up that conversation with a partner was difficult at speed. Also, other drivers with bigger rides instinctively know they can cut in front of you, and they're right. 2025 Mini Cooper Countryman SE ALL4 2025 Mini Countryman Electric The 2025 Mini Cooper Countryman SE ALL4 is a splendid, can-do all-electric compact crossover SUV blending Mini's identifiable characteristics with modern electric performance. It's also not 'mini' as we understand the term. This electric model is new for 2025. But it must be included on this list. Looks It is large and lovely, with a length of about 175 inches and a width of 81.5 inches. It features customizable LED lighting elements, including daytime running lights and taillights which owners can personalize. The front grille is now an octagonal shape - a new design element for the 2025 model year - integrating sensors and cameras. Inside It's neat, minimal and they've put the window controls on each of the doors, where they belong. The interior materials include reasonably premium fabrics and Vescin leatherette, with options for massaging seats and a panoramic sunroof. Mini's 9.4-inch circular center display is on deck here, and it looks elegant when you finally get it to do as you wish. 2025 Mini Countryman Electric As for tech, the Mini Operating System 9 supporting wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot. This unique system also allows for personalized backgrounds and includes driving modes like Trail Mode, displaying a compass and inclinometer, for example. Motor You motivate via a 66 kWh battery, offering an EPA-estimated range of 212 miles, 204 miles with 19-inch wheels. That's on the low side. It supports DC fast charging up to 130 kW, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in under 30 minutes. Price The starting price for the 2025 Countryman SE ALL4 is $45,200, with higher trims and options increasing the cost to $51,145. The Drive This 'Mini' weighs 4,500 pounds so although the acceleration, steering and handling are on-point, it is quite the large vehicle and behaves as such. Acceleration from a dead stop is electric-hasty and thus handy and a lot of fun. But a zippy, mountain-carving unit this isn't, and that's ok. For reference, the original Mini weighed 1,250 pounds. Options Notable options include the customizable ambient lighting, a Harman Kardon sound system and various style packages that accentuate different vehicle features. Additionally, the vehicle offers a head-up display and massaging front seats. Room for improvement The range is on the low side compared with competitors. The ignition and drive selector are the tiniest you've ever seen in any car, anywhere. The infotainment system never remembered my Droid on each ride - one had to reconnect each trip using six steps. Most vehicles require you to sync just once, and you're connected throughout the test. Safety Safety features include standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and optional adaptive cruise control with lane-centering. 2025 Fiat 500e 2025 FIAT 500e As soon as I got to the end of the block during my first drive, I loved the Fiat 500e. There was enough room inside, first, for both me and the 76-pound dog I was watching. Unlike the other vehicle I had at the time where the pooch just couldn't get settled or sit still, sometimes for two hours, she just sat, alert, in the 500e the entire time. The other thing I loved was that, as in an MX-5, you just zip around any obstacle, quietly. Need to make a u-turn? You don't even think about it, just do it. You're also a welcome sight to most people. Being cute can have its advantages. Nobody on the road was pushy or disrespectful. Now, the disadvantages. The 500e's 140-150 mile range is very much on the low side. This shouldn't be a problem – if there are fast-chargers along your route. What I found, though, when nearing Bear Mountain during the test was that of the 12 chargers listed in my map's software, 12 were also occupied. Ditto the four chargers nearest that. I would have to head home and plug the 500e into the three-pronged outlet in the garage and leave it there at least 10 hours, which I really didn't mind. It's nice to think you can buy an electric car and just plug it into your house and not think about it. What's New For 2025 The 500e was new as of last year, the previous model having been discontinued in the USA in 2019. There isn't any mechanical or performance difference between the 2024 and 2025 Fiat 500e, aside from a new Giorgio Armani Collector's Edition styling package added for this year. Inside 2025 FIAT (500e) RED It'll fit you and a partner and a big dog like mine or a couple of little kids. The big and tall adults, not so much. A generous 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system runs a Uconnect 5 software interface and the sound was punchy and satisfying. Overall, the interior is mod and pleasant and is outfitted with more stuff than was the outgoing model. You feel a bit like you're in a movie space pod. Motor You've got a single 87-kW permanent magnet electric motor, delivering the equivalent of 117 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. How much is it? The 2025 Fiat 500e has a starting MSRP of $30,500, with the Giorgio Armani edition priced at $37,495, according to CarEdge and Kelley Blue Book. The base model, the 500e INSPI(RED), also starts at $30,500. Performance Front-wheel drive is your only option, a plus for a little car when it has to ford snow or ice. You zip-zip as you will in any electric in parking lots and city streets, but acceleration is a slightly sluggish on highways - 60 mph is reached in about 8.5 seconds. You've got three different regenerative modes—Normal, Range, and Sherpa, Sherpa being a sort of emergency electricity miser that'll numb all responses and keep your speed under 50 MPH, in aid of you making it to the next charger when you're low. How's the drive? The ride is firm but the cockpit's quiet. Keep a firm grip on the wheel over rough roads, or it'll snap right out of your hands. There isn't a whole lot else to say about the drive except that it matches the vehicle's size (tiny) and its motor (little.) One doesn't expect a screeching, spitting experience. Conclusion? The experience delivered is exactly what's expected - a stylish little electric, done well.
Auto Blog
28-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Bentley Doesn't Want Mercedes-Benz To Revive These Iconic Cabriolets
Where'd the convertibles go? Imagine the rejuvenating waft of ocean air flowing through your long and full head of hair. The sun's heavy rays beat down on you with the same effect as steaming rocks in a sauna, but your cashmere polo stays void of sweat, thanks to the blissfully effective ventilation packed beneath the supple leather seats in your Mercedes-Benz convertible as you dash briskly out of town, away from your day job, and off into the cloudless weekend. This is what life is like in a drop-top Mercedes–all the theatrical joie de vivre of a top-end Benz, elevated exponentially by the disappearance of a roof. It's a simple recipe for success in the business of flashy, high-end luxury, but it seems these days that, in the pursuit of cost-cutting, shareholder value maximization, and regulatory compliance, Mercedes-Benz seems to have turned its back on some of the brand's most coveted convertible models. 0:05 / 0:09 2025 Audi S3: 4 reasons to love it, 2 reasons to think twice Watch More Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet with the S-Class Cabriolet W 111. — Source: Mercedes-Benz Models like the S-Class Cabriolet and the G-Class Cabriolet have long acted as high watermarks that set Mercedes-Benz apart from other so-called 'luxury brands' who never had the guts to build such inaccessibly niche yet over-the-top extravagant models. Kids might have bright orange Lamborghinis sticky-puttied onto their bedroom walls, but the grown elite fantasize about lavish Rolls-Royce Dropheads and sultry convertible Bentleys. With models like the S-Cab and the G-Cab, Mercedes-Benz signalled to the world that it could keep up with the elite go-tos like Rolls-Royce and Bentley in terms of elegance and excessive extravagance, all with German build quality to boot. Neither Audi nor BMW ever offered drop-top variants of their full-size sedan or of a military-grade SUV, and that level of extremism has thus become synonymous with Mercedes-Benz instead of Audi or BMW. Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet 'Edition 130' Using generative text-to-image artificial intelligence and Adobe Photoshop, we take an imagined look at what some iconic Mercedes-Benz convertible models would look like if revived for the modern day, using contemporary styling and modern body styles. These renders are purely for speculative and entertainment purposes and in no way depict any actual Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG, or Mercedes-Maybach products. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. A W223 Mercedes-Benz S580 Cabriolet would be an eye-catching range topper for the brand's modern lineup Mercedes-Benz S580 (W223) Cabriolet — Source: AI Generated Image Only a few short years ago, the Mercedes-Benz cabriolet lineup included variants of most of the brand's traditional sedans, including the C-Class Cabrio, the E-Class Cabrio, and the venerable S-Class Cabrio, which represented the pinnacle of extravagance in the standard Mercedes-Benz lineup and could even be had in AMG and Maybach flavors. Now that Mercedes has replaced both the C- and E-Class Cabriolet with the sporty and modern CLE-Class, the world has been left without a worthy successor to the big body S-Class Cabriolet. Based on the W223 platform, an all-new Mercedes-Benz S580 Cabriolet could make use of the model's twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with mild hybrid drive to produce up to 496 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, placing its performance stats close to those of the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Azure, which packs 516 horsepower from a similar, hybridized and twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 setup. Mercedes-Benz S580 (W223) Cabriolet — Source: AI Generated Image Reviving the S-Class Cabriolet on the Mercedes-Benz W223 platform could even spawn AMG and Maybach variants, just as the W222 generation can so proudly claim. Imagine a high-performance Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance Cabriolet with 791 horsepower and a whopping 1,055 lb-ft of torque from a handcrafted twin-turbocharged plug-in hybrid 4.0-liter V8. Using 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and an AMG SPEEDSHIFT 9-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, imagine doing 0-60 mph sprints in just 3.3 seconds with the wind in your hair. Alternatively, for those who appreciate the S-Class Cabrio's massive talents as a superbly luxurious cruiser, a Mercedes-Maybach S680 Cabriolet variant could make use of the lush, twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 found in the contemporary Maybach saloon, which packs a 621 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque punch. Imagine off-roading in open-top style with an all-new Mercedes-AMG G63 Cabriolet Mercedes-Benz G-Class Cabriolet — Source: AI Generated Image The Mercedes-Benz G-Class Cabriolet has become a true cult classic in its own right, as its striking yet classy appearance has aged like fine wine. The G-Class Cabriolet has become so coveted, in fact, that clean examples command exponentially higher price tags than standard, non-cabriolet variants. For example, this 2006 Mercedes-Benz G500 Cabriolet, auctioned on Bring a Trailer, sold for an astonishing $350,000 USD back in 2022. Compare that to this 2008 Mercedes-Benz G500 that sold just a month prior for $52,500, despite being two years newer, and it becomes clear that the collector car market recognizes tremendous value in the topless two-door G-Wagen variant. Perhaps Mercedes should take the hint and bring the massively desirable cabriolet back into its model lineup. Mercedes-AMG EQS Cabriolet — Source: AI Generated Image Final thoughts Although the contemporary Mercedes-Benz lineup is not entirely absent of convertible offerings, the CLE-Class exists as the sole traditional cabriolet offering, with the SL-Class carrying the flag for the iconic Mercedes roadster format. It's unfortunate to see such historic and coveted convertibles vanish from the German automaker's legendary lineup, but we're hopeful that we'll see a comeback soon. Perhaps we'll even see some electric Mercedes cabrios eventually! About the Author Cole Attisha View Profile
The Sun
06-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Top 10 convertibles selling for under £10k this summer including ‘curvaceous' Audi, chic Mercedes & ‘cool-looking' BMW
WITH summer getting into full swing you might be dreaming of rolling down a soft-top and feeling the wind in your hair but you think it's a pipedream - or maybe it's not. While convertibles are seen as a luxury they can still be affordable - here are the best affordable convertibles on the market. BMW 6 Series Convertible 9 The so-called 'cool' BMW, has a snazzy exterior look while being a practical car with room for four inside. The BMW Series 6 can be picked up at a reasonable £5000 second hand which is far more obtainable than when it was first released. The car is a fantastic long-range car due to its comfortable interior but it is a complex car that will also come with higher fuel and maintenance costs. Mini Convertible 9 One of the most instantly recognisable cars in the world, the Mini is a smash-hit with thousands of people. Its slick and colourful exterior is matched by its welcoming interior which has a lot of room for a compact car. The convertible can be picked up for as little as £2000 while more expensive models are available that have an engine that packs a little more punch. Mazda MX-5 9 The Mazda MX-5 is one of the most sought after convertibles on the market. Available from £2000, the MX-5 is loved by many for the driving experience it provides along with rear-wheel drive and an easy to use roof mechanism. Due to its popularity, there are plenty of MX-5's available including newer models which range between £2000 and £5000. Audi TT Roadster 9 The Audi TT Roadster was revolutionary when it was first released 25 years ago both for its look and the technology it introduced. This option comes in around £2000 despite it still looking fantastic in 2025 as well as the luxury materials used in building the interior. Fiat 500c Ideal for inner-city driving due to its compact style, the Fiat 500c combines a cute look with practicality. Priced at around £2300, this car is one of the cheapest on the list to insure and run on a daily basis. While the roof doesn't pack away completely, it still performs the convertible element adequately. Volvo C70 9 While Volvo is known for producing SUVs and family cars, they have also produced a convertible that is very affordable. The C70 can be found for as little as £1700 and is designed by the Swedish manufacturer to be as refined and comfortable as possible. It must be noted that the C70 is a metal-folding hard-top rather than soft-top and should be evaluated that it operates properly before purchasing. Porsche Boxter Arguably the most impressive on the list, simply by the name alone, the Boxter's performance is one of the best on the list. Unlike newer models which will set you back at least £60,000, a second hand Boxter comes in at £10,000. Due to it being a high performance car, the maintenance and fuel costs will be higher with this one. Mercedes SLK 9 The smallest of convertibles that Mercedes offers but it is packed with loads of great features like a clever metal-folding roof. The SLK at its cheapest can be found for £1500 but this would be for a first-generation model. For the newer, more modern and comfortable second-generation edition, you would expect to pay £6500 for one in good condition and a reasonable mileage. Peugeot 207 CC 9 While the 207CC might not win the award for the fastest or highest performance on the list, it would win being one of the most cost-efficient. Prices range between £1500 and £3000 depending on how used the vehicle is. It's available with a range of efficient engines and because it's based around the same design as the standard Peugeot 207 hatchback making it cheap and easy to run. Volkswagen Eos 9 The Eos is basically a VW Golf with the roof cut off. The folding metal roof also incorporates a sunroof, so you can still get a better view of the sky even when you don't fancy having the roof entirely lowered. Prices for a good condition Eos start around £3000.
The Sun
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Top 10 convertibles selling for under £10k this summer including iconic Porsche, stylish Mercedes & ‘rare' BMW
THE BEST convertibles selling for under £10,000 have been revealed. The list, compiled by the BBC's hit motoring show Top Gear, includes a stunning Mercedes and one iconic Porsche. 13 13 Experts from the driving show have scoured the internet for the best deals, as Brits flock to dealerships to pick up convertibles this summer. Each price is based on a real-life example of each car that is currently on sale right now. Lotus Elan SE Turbo The Lotus Elan SE Turbo is a sporty, two-seater first produced in 1989. A second generation of the car hit the road in the mid-1990s and became known for its incredible handling. This incredible car is on sale for just £6,950 on Ebay and comes in a gorgeous red colour. With a manual roof that can be easily retracted, it's perfect for the summer. 13 Porsche Boxster S (986) The Porsche Boxster S is one of the most iconic cars to be produced by the German manufacturer. Fitted with a glamorous black shell, heated seats and 18 inch alloys, the car is both stylish and sturdy. On sale for £9,999, it is one of the pricier motors on the list but it is also one of the chicest. 13 Alfa Romeo Spider (916) For decades, the Spider was one of Alfa Romeo's flagship cars. Made famous by the 1967 film The Graduate, the Spider has a place in Hollywood history. The model is a two-seater vehicle, which has been described as both 'reliable and stylish'. It's on the market for £7,500 meaning you can take the fancy car home without breaking the bank. 13 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R129) The Mercedes-Benz SL500 can hit 62mph in just 6.5 seconds and can reach top speeds of 155mph. It is propelled by a 5-0 litre V8 engine and comes fitted with luxurious leather seats. The motor, which is on sale for £9,995, also has climate control - meaning you can enjoy it in the winter and in the summer. 13 Honda S2000 Described by Top Gear as 'punchy, rev-happy and incredibly reliable', the Honda S2000 is a very powerful motor. It is also one of the cheaper vehicles on the list, coming in at just £6000 - making it almost £3000 less than the most expensive car on Top Gear's list. Some models have been fitted with customised parts, including a bigger 2.4 litre K24 unit - which boosts the car's power - and revised drop links. BMW 318i The BMW 318i is a convertible designed more for cruising than racing. The vehicle has a 1.8L and is quintessentially 1990s, with its iconic shape. It's also one of the rarer cars on the road, with only 50 being produced in a luxurious green. Jaguar XJS The Jaguar XJS has a massive 5,300 ccm engine meaning the convertible is one of the biggest on the list. Fitted with cushioned seats and sophisticated wood finishes, it's a car designed for tarvelling in style. Coming in at £9,995, it is one of the more expensive motors but it makes up for its cost through the huge amount of leg room in the front seats. 13 Mazda MX-5 (NA) The Mazda MX-5 was designed according to its manufacturer's Jinba Ittai philosophy - the belief that a car should be an extension of its driver. Lightweight, fast and stylish, the MX-5 is one of the most beloved cars on the road. It costs just £8,250 to pick up this piece of motor history when buying secondhand but MX-5s are known to sell quickly so you'll have to hurry before another car lover snaps it up. 13 TVR Chimaera The TVR Chimaera is as loud as the mythical beast from which it gets its name. However, it's actually an incredibly gentle ride with a 4.0 litre Rover V8 engine. The motor was produced from 1992 and 2003 and has remained legendary ever since. It costs £8,995 to pick up a second-hand Chimaera. The Chevrolet Corvette This incredible car might look like something from a science-fiction movie, but the 1980s Chevrolet Corvette is a certified classic. Its 5.7 litre engine packs a huge punch and has a detachable roof for when the weather heats up. This motor actually costs £12,250 to buy second-hand but sellers have been known to drop the price for the right offer. 13
