It’s about time for a new list
The right convertible will help you capture that moment when the summer wind comes blowing in, so find your price range* and get out of that dank basement. Actually, log into CarWoo!, buy one of these convertibles, and then go.
*Numbers are subject to increase if you get greedy
Best Bargain Convertibles for 2012
2012 FIAT 500c ($20,000- $25,000)
The 500c seems to fall into two categories, depending on who you talk to. It’s either a trendy gimmick or a stylish good time on four wheels. The 500c offers obvious price benefits, a somewhat wind controlled top down experience, and the ability to retract the roof at freeway speed (Well, it’s 60 MPH). The downsides include cramped muscles and being forced to use words like ‘Pop’ and ‘Lounge’ when buying one.
2012 Mazda Miata ($24,000- $30,000)
One thing you’ll find with the bargain based convertibles is that they’re small. Nothing wrong with that, just don’t plan on packing more than you have to on your summer’s eve scant to the beach. The Miata is a standard on any convertible list because it’s inexpensive to own, and you’ll have a great time driving it. Enough said.
Best Moderately Priced Convertibles for 2012
2013 Ford Mustang Convertible ($27,000- $60,000)
You may notice the variance in price range with the Mustang. That’s because Ford gives you options. You’ve got varying degrees of performance and value, all of which add up to a hard to beat classic American convertible. What’s that you say, Chevy? Ahem.
2012 BMW 1 Series Convertible ($39,000- $47,000)
Here’s the thing about the 1 Series Convertible: the 3 Series gets too much attention and you can snatch up this entry level convertible starting at $10,000 less. Plus you get your choice of two potent engines, upscale features, and the right to post stuff on the Bimmerfest forums.
Audi A5 Cabriolet ($43,000- $54,000)
The A5 Cabrio just looks like a city-centric convertible, and the word ‘sexy’ seems to come up a lot when it’s mentioned. Good enough reason to consider one, plus you still get 10.2 cubic feet of trunk space with the top down- that’s plenty of space for all the undergarments you’ll collect along the way.
2013 Nissan Z Roadster (TBA)
Nissan has promised to have the 2013 Z Roadster will be available in time for summer, so here we are. Sure, you’ve only got two seats, but anyone who has driven a Z knows that these cars are damn fun to take out.
Best Luxury Level Convertible for 2012
2013 Porsche Boxster ($50,000- $62,000)
The new Boxster looks, feels, and performs better than any of the previous incarnations, and though you won’t get a lot of room, you won’t care either.
Best Super Luxury Convertible for 2012
2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Convertible ($132,000- $151,000)
Yeah, there’s a bit of a rise in dollars spent here, but the V8 Vantage is just too beautiful to leave out. Chop the top off it becomes the ultimate summer dream ride. If you’re in the market for one of these, you’re obviously a better person than I.
Best Convertibles for 2012 That Haven’t Been Released Yet
2013 Chevy Camaro ZL1 (TBA)
It’s simply not possible to leave these future drop-tops off the list. The 2013 Camaro ZL1 Convertible will feature 580 horsepower and 556 lb.-ft. of torque, making it the most powerful Chevy convertible ever. Unfortunately you’ll have to wait until later this year to get your hands on it.
2013 Volkswagen GTI Cabrio (TBA)
When VW unleashes the sport-tuned GTI Cabrio it’ll feature 207 horsepower and a cloth top that opens in about 10 seconds. That’s almost as good as its 7.3 second 0 to 60 time. Look for the GTI Cabrio soon.
