The best second-hand convertibles on the market today

With the summer in full swing, now is the perfect time to get yourself a car that offers the wind-in-the-hair experience.

In the last few years, the convertible market has shrunk as manufacturers focus on SUVs and electric vehicles but that doesn’t mean that  there aren’t still several drop-tops on the second-hand market that offer bags of style, performance and above all else, value for money.

So, if you fancy getting behind the wheel of a used convertible this summer, what are the best options out there?

We’ve compiled a list of the best second-hand convertibles that you can buy right now.

BMW Z4

The BMW Z4 comes with a premium image, a muscular exterior design and lots of standard kit.

The second-generation model offers the perfect blend of style, quality and driveability. Under the bonnet, the Z4 is available with several engines with the entry-level 2.0-litre model packing up to 242bhp and 350Nm of torque, while power goes to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox or there is an optional automatic.

Go for an older model from 2009 and 2010 and it’s hooked up to a larger 3.0-litre straight-six engine that produces 254bhp and 310Nm of torque, while 60mph comes around in 5.9 seconds and all models will reach a top speed of 155mph.

Prices for a clean low-mileage example start at £8,990 for a 2.0-litre car and rise to £11,500 for a 3.0-litre model.

BMW 4 Series Convertible

Another BMW on this list and for good reason as the 4 Series Convertible is one of most complete packages in its class.

If you want a convertible with four seats, this BMW is hard to beat. The 4 Series is great to drive, come with a plush-feeling cabin and all of the powertrains are frugal and smooth.

The rear seats are practical enough to carry small children and the car is great for covering lots of miles thanks to its direct steering and comfortable seats.

Look to spend around £11,500 for a 2.0-litre ‘428i’ model, though if you cover lots of miles, the ‘420D’ diesel variant is the pick of the range and can be yours for £13,300.

Honda S2000

If you’re looking for a two-seater convertible sports car that’s reliable and provides a race-car-like driving experience, the Honda S2000 is a great choice.

It’s equipped with Honda’s renowned 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated VTEC engine which revs to more than 8,000rpm and produces 242bhp.

The standard rear-wheel drive setup makes it the perfect driver’s car with its razor-sharp handling, minimalist interior layout and simple foldable electric roof operation.

Prices for a clean, unmolested example are still affordable with a 48,000-mile GT example with a removable hard top roof on the market for £16,990.

Mazda MX-5

The Mazda MX-5 is one of the world’s best-selling roadsters thanks to its affordable price tag, bulletproof reliability and raw driving experience.

The latest fourth-generation model is the best yet and is available with a choice of 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre powertrains.

Behind the wheel, the MX-5’s sporty characteristics really come alive with a slick six-speed manual gearbox, rear-wheel drive setup, perfectly weighted steering and peppy performance.

There’s no shortage of second-hand examples with the market flooded with choice. But, we’d recommend going for one that’s got a full service history and is completely standard. A model like this can be picked up from as little as £12,000.

Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

If you want to cross the continent in comfort, style and prestige this summer, the Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet should be on your shopping list.

To drive, the E-Class is all about delivering a solidified and comfortable experience while its four-seat layout is more than adequate to accommodate small adults in the rear seats.

There are several engines on offer, but if you cover lots of miles, the 2.1-litre turbocharged diesel engine is a great choice as it delivers a claimed 58.9mpg; produces 168bhp and 400Nm of torque.

Used models are priced from £9,995 for a 2.1-litre diesel and rise to £15,000 for the 3.5-litre V6 petrol.

Porsche Boxster

The Porsche Boxster has built up a reputation of being a great all-round two-seater sports car.

It comes with a premium badge, a well-trimmed interior, a mid-engined layout and lots of pedigree.

If you’re looking for an affordable second-hand example, the ‘987’ model, which ran from 2004 to 2012 offers the best blend of value and performance.

Thanks to its mid-engine setup, the Boxster has a perfect 50:50 weight distribution which makes it one of the best-handling cars in its class.

If you go for the ‘S’ model, it’s hooked up to a 3.4-litre flat-six engine that makes 295bhp and 340Nm of torque, while 60mph is dispatched in 5.4 seconds and the car will reach a top speed of 169mph.

Second-hand examples are priced at £17,000 and rise to £19,000 for a Boxster S with less than 40,000 miles.