With summer approaching, it’s easy to envision thoughts of some affordable top-down motoring. With this in mind, let’s explore two uncommon options for some fun-in-the-sun that are both up for bid at Bring a Trailer. This edition of Auction Dilemma looks at a 1991 Alfa Romeo Spider and a 1988 Mazda RX-7 convertible.
1991 Alfa Romeo Spider
Despite an origin that goes back to the 1960s, Alfa Romeo Spiders have been appealing drop-top for not only its Italian roots but an attractive body shape that underwent minor changes during its almost three-decade model run. Alfa Romeo was wise not to mess too much with this Pininfarina-designed classic. This red with black soft top 1991 Spider sports a remarkable 58,000 miles, which explains its overall clean appearance. On the downside, this car’s vehicle history shows a since-repaired 2004 accident and the unfortunate overuse of Quadrafolgio-style clover stickers (one on the back end would have been enough).
Yet, a few negatives won’t take away from a sun-drenched driving experience that’s powered by a fuel-injected 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine factory rated for a just-right 120 hp and 117 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual manages output heading to the rear wheels.
The tan cloth and vinyl upholstery embraces the more modern interior that was introduced in the 1980s. While the flat-panel dash of earlier models is gone, the high placement of the gear shift keeps the Spider’s quirky charm. Cabin equipment includes power windows and mirrors, a wood gear shift knob, and still more stickers. The seller reports the converted R134a air conditioning system is non-functioning.
1988 Mazda RX-7 Convertible
Seeking to keep up with the competitive sports car marketplace, Mazda introduced the convertible version of the RX-7 for 1988. Yet, Mazda was really targeting Porsche. A glance at the profiles of the top-down versions of the 944 and RX-7 reveals the apparent similarities.
The only thing this RX-7 convertible has in common with its Italian-flavored Auction Dilemma counterpart is a soft top, two doors, four wheels, and a five-speed stick. The pop-up headlights of this Noble White Mazda come across as more dated than classic. However, there’s something to be said about a three-decade-old car with one-owner history and only 74,000 miles on the clock. Sure, there are some body imperfections and corrosion, but did we mention this car is from 1988?
Thanks to the extra weight from Mazda’s effort to help with topless body structure, the RX-7 convertible weighs about 300 lbs more than the hatchback model. As such, the 1.3L rotary engine (originally rated at 1456 hp and 138 lb-ft of torque) won’t help the car set any speed records, but at least you’ll have a smile on your face while the top is down.
Inside, the angular dash and blue leather upholstery are elements of the car’s 80s origins. Onboard equipment includes air conditioning, an audio system with cassette and CD functions, and power windows, locks, and mirrors.
Would You Make A Top Bid On A Top-Down Experience?
Both cars represent two different approaches to a classic formula: a small, door-door vehicle with a drop-top. Do you prefer classic Italian style or pure 80s retro? The 1988 Mazda RX-7 convertible auction has three days remaining and a $5,000 high bid as of this writing. The 1991 Alfa Romeo Spider auction has a $12,000 high bid and one day left.
Sources: bringatrailer.com, autoevolution.com, Hemmings