The feel of driving a smooth and beautiful luxury convertible car can’t be overemphasized, especially driving with the roof down during the summer or spring. However, getting one of the best new performance convertibles can be quite expensive, especially if the manufacturer has a reputable name across the globe.
Updated May 2022: If you're looking to purchase a convertible for the summer, you'll be happy to know we've updated this article with a selection of excellent models that cost $25,000 or less.
But why are these luxury convertibles that expensive? First off, the luxury in the convertible's name immediately states that it should be expensive. Then, the fact that it’s a convertible obviously takes the manufacturer more effort, time, and tools to perfect. However, it's not necessarily that one must buy a new convertible to enjoy the open top. A used one with a good resale value and usable mileage can still offer a thrilling experience. The used market has an excellent selection of convertibles ranging from as low as $7,000 to around $25,000. With that in mind, read on some of the best luxury convertibles available for under $25,000.
20 2008 BMW Z4 Roadster: $8,000 - $30,000
With its price ranging between $8,000 and $30,000, the 2008 BMW Z4 is one of the best used convertibles to buy in 2022. At that price range, the odometer reads between 23,770 and 184,720 miles. Despite the mileage, the 2008 Z4 still delivers everything a luxury convertible should offer —unique styling and European driving dynamics.
The 2008 Z4 3.0 Si is powered by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder with a decent output of 255 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 220 lb-ft of torque at 2750 rpm. According to the manufacturer, this premium roadster accelerates from 0-60 mph in only 5.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph. It is a perfect convertible. The only inspection required is to ensure its cabin electronics are working perfectly and that its convertible mechanisms are in order.
19 2005 Honda S2000 - $20,000
The 2005 S2000 is an amazing minimalist convertible and one of Honda's best sports cars. And with only around $20,000, the used market offers excellent condition examples of this beautiful sports speedster. Apart from the fact that it comes with the legendary Honda reliability and a rear-wheel drive, the 2008 S2000 produces 237 horsepower at a screaming 9,000 RPM.
That's enough to power for the car to sprint from 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 149 mph. It's not one the fastest, but it offers a thrilling experience when well-cared for.
18 2013 BMW 3-Series: $7,950 - $34,900
The base BMW 3 series has a 180-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Its convertible and coupe models also have an optional four-cylinder engine that produces 230 horsepower. The car is designed to offer great fun when the roof is down and unmatched comfort and luxury with a closed top. It's a great choice of car for sun-seeking enthusiasts.
While pristine models of this car cost much as $35,000, the used market offers well-kept examples for as low as $8,000. It's a powerful roadster with powerful engine options and a well-appointed cabin. The car has a good rating with its ability to deliver 35 mpg on the highway and 23 mpg in the city.
17 2009 Nissan 370Z Roadster - $22,990
The Nissan 370Z Roadster can be quite expensive when new; even some pristine models in the used market cost as much as $40,000. That said, used 370Z models from 2009 cost around $22,990. Some even cost as little as $15,000.
The car is beautifully styled to give the 370Z its surprisingly exotic appearance. It is powered by a V6 engine that produces 337 horsepower, and it’s difficult not to love and appreciate the excellent handling of the 370Z. It has a tight, well-engineered suspension and a rear-wheel-drive chassis.
16 2004 Chevrolet Corvette - $16,663
The C5 is arguably one of the best Corvettes, and the 2004 model is the best of all C5s. The 2004 Corvette featured continuous refinements to enhance its overall performance and improve its ride quality. And while the Corvette is the car that put Chevrolet on the global sports car market, it is no longer the only American sports car.
In as much as people love and would love to drive the charming speed beast, the Corvette has greatly evolved and is no longer the affordable sports car it used to be. The 2004 model presents tight-budgeted gearheads the opportunity to sit behind the wheel of a Corvette at an affordable price of around $17,000.
15 Chevrolet Camaro - $18,990
The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro convertible is a sweet convertible easily available in any color and has excellent performance and luxury features. And it goes for about $18,990. With a V6 engine producing 312 horsepower, up from 304 in previous models, the Chevy Camaro Convertible accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds and clears the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds.
With around $19,000, buyers can choose from the wide range of used Camaro convertibles, but the upscale LT trim is the best. It features powered front seats, alloy wheels, automatic headlights, Bluetooth, and an iPod interface.
14 2013 Infiniti G37: $5,499 - $30,990
The 2013 Infiniti G37 in all its forms is a versatile vehicle that would appeal to any gearhead. Considering that the car is valued between $5,500 and $30,000, a budget of $25,000 brings to the driveway one of the best and well-kept examples in the used car market.
The convertible comes with a sports trim and base trim. The rear-wheel convertible is named from its engine, a 3.7-liter V6 that produces between 325 hp and 330 hp, depending on the model.
13 2004 Ford Mustang Convertible - 15,000
The Ford Mustang is one of America's favorite and most reliable convertibles. Fourth-generation models have awesome looks and can be found well under $15,000 with a snorting exhaust note from its potent 4.6-liter V8 engine that produces up to 260 horsepower.
When buying the Mustang, drivers should check for a hesitation during acceleration. What that means is that the engine sensors are faulty. It’s also important to check the rear tires and brakes to affirm that they aren’t worn out.
12 2006 Audi TT Convertible - $8,900
This generation Audi TT has unique looks and great handling dynamics. With a price tag of slightly below $10,000, the 2006 TT Roadster is one of the cheapest luxury convertibles to buy in 2022. The Roadster is available with three engine options. One is the 180-hp 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four powering the front-wheel-drive models. The other options are the 1.8-liter four with 225 hp and the 3.2-liter V6 with 250 hp. These two power the Quattro all-wheel-drive models.
While this TT Roadster is not the ultimate best in performance, the car features state-of-the-art styling and a stylish interior that makes it an excellent luxury convertible. Its sophisticated DSG transmission, potent V6, and all-wheel-drive system make the 2006 TT convertible a car of choice for shallow-pocketed buyers.
11 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata - $7,600
The Mazda Miata is a Japanese-built car that appears to be one of the world’s most successful roadsters. It perfectly combines an outstanding fuel economy with addictive driving dynamics to deliver one of the most thrilling convertibles. This car goes for around $7,600, which is reasonable considering that the two-seater is fun to drive and reliable.
The roadster has luxury features like power accessories, leather seating, a CD changer, anti-lock brakes, and Bose audio. Before buying the MX-5, it is essential to check the trunk lid, lower door sills, and wheel wells for any signs of rust.
10 Volvo C70 - $19,161
The Volvo C70 Convertible has the perfect looks and driving dynamics that will turn heads wherever it goes. It also has a great engine performance, making it the perfect buy for2022. The unified lines on its body and the sporty stance give it a more beautiful look.
Its 2.5-liter engine generates 233 horsepower, which gives it the capacity to do 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Thus, the average price tag of $19,161 brings this charming convertible to the driveway.
9 Saturn Sky - $14,108
The Saturn Sky has a high-performance turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 290 horsepower with a torque rating of 340 lb-ft, enough to set the tar on fire. This roadster-designed car is comfortable enough to put a smile on any driver's face.
The Sky comes with an aggressive stance and sporty angles that make it the perfect convertible to rock the streets in 2022. And with a 5-speed automatic or manual transmission, drivers can rest assured that the drive handling will be smooth as easy. The good news is the car costs only around $15,000.
8 Volkswagen EOS - $24,990
All the car versions of the Volkswagen EOS from 2006 to 2015 offer superb utility and drivability, plus good looks to go with it. The roof drops with a touch of a button; thus, transitioning from a corporate feel to a casual feel takes seconds.
The mechanical part of the car equally lives up to expectations. And with its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 200 horsepower, the car's performance perfectly matches German auto engineering. The gear transmission works smoothly and swiftly, giving the car a strong torque curve. It is an excellent hardtop with a flair for fun. It offers exciting sun comfort, rides well, and returns excellent gas mileage. Anyone looking for a sexy sports convertible will appreciate the exotic looks of the EOS.
7 Chrysler 200 - $8,970
For only around $9,000, a sports convertible thirst can be quenched with a used 2011 Chrysler 200 S. It features a superb convertible system, classy styling, and perfectly blends durability and sophistication. The Chrysler 200 is equipped with a 3.6 Liter V6 engine that generates 283 horsepower, enabling it to sprint from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds.
It also has a state-of-the-art interior that offers the comfort needed to achieve a smooth ride. For those looking for a convertible car with exotic looks, comfort, and sports performance, the 2011 Chrysler 200 S convertible is an excellent choice.
6 Toyota Solara - $9,562
While the price of this excellent convertible ranges between $4,000 and $29,000, most examples in perfect condition sell for only around $9,600. The 2008 Solara SLE convertible was imbued with style and classiness that preserves the functional components that Toyota is renowned for. All the models between 2005 to 2008 feature simple body lines that form a spectacular profile when combined with a soft top.
The car still includes useful features, including ample legroom for two tall adults at the backseats and large trunk space, even with its top dropped. Nobody needs a better engine performance and transmission than what is offered by this car. It not only offers the best value for money, but it is also one of the most reliable vehicles ever built.
5 2009 Audi A5 Cabriolet - $24,000
It’s not every day that a top-quality convertible car such as the 2009 Audi A5 Cabriolet appears on a list like this. The car is worth more than its price at $24,000, even as a used one. The top rival of the 2009 Audi A5 Cabriolet is the convertible BMW 4-series, although the Audi has a more flawless interior than all of its rivals.
The interior features a lovely sound system with a large screen, Bluetooth, climate control, and exquisite leather seats. The car is powered by a 252-horsepower engine with 273 lb-ft of torque.
4 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet - $23,000
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet is another lovely convertible car that is quite affordable and classy. It looks like an upgraded CLK, with a little more room on the inside. It’s proportioned to be more of a cruiser than a sports car. This comfortable 4-seat Cabriolet has the added advantage of making additional space compared with other rivals like BMW.
The car’s interior is quite sophisticated with features like a color screen LCD with USB, Bluetooth Compatibility, and Soft leather chairs with a massage. While a used example of this car costs between $7,300 to $36,295, $23,000 is enough to bring one in perfect condition to the driveway.
3 2014 BMW 4 Series Convertible - $15,873
The 4 Series convertible car uses a 3-piece retractable hardtop like theolder BMW 3-Series convertible. Transiting from closed to open top takes only 20 seconds. The car seats have integrated belts like the six series, plus they come with optional neck warmers to ensure the driver enjoys the extra warm feeling.
The BMW 4 Series comes in two types; the first has a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 240 horsepower, and the second has a 3.0-liter engine that generates 300 horsepower. An eight-speed transmission is linked to both of these models.
2 2010 BMW 1-Series - $19,990
The 2010 BMW 1 Series is equipped with a turbocharged 6-cylinder engine combined with a 6-speed automatic or manual gear transmission to give its drivers a sharp acceleration. Also, the car features an EPA rating of 18mpg in the city and 25mpg on the highway.
The sporty handling of the BMW 1-series makes it fun to drive, coupled with its sharp brake system and responsive steering. The cabin is built with premium materials that give the interior a classy look to its retractable hardtop. And it costs only around $20,000.
1 2018 FIAT 124 Spider Classica - $23,990
The 2018 FIAT 124 Spider Classica is a unique blend of Japanese engineering and Italian styling. It comes with a special suspension tuning, a fantastic interior, and a powerful turbocharged engine. The Fiat 124 Spider is a car that gives its driver a unique adventure, even on a twisted road.
At first, its interior looks like that of the Mazda Miata MX-5. Nevertheless, the Fiat 124 Spider has a different engine, Fiat's own turbocharged 1.4-liter, and the car comes in around $24,000.