Nothing says summer road trip like a convertible, and now is a great time to be in the market for a used drop-top. Why? Because the selection of affordable convertibles is truly remarkable these days. From small and light sports convertibles to beefy muscle cars to luxury cars, there’s something for just about every kind of convertible aficionado on this list — and none of them will break the bank.
Here are 10 of the best used convertibles you’ll find for less than $25,000. As always, the suggested model years and trim levels are merely a starting point for your research. Prices vary by region, so you may find even better deals with some savvy shopping.
1. 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata
A legend among convertibles and sports cars, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is not only one of the category’s all-time best-sellers but also an excellent pick for both sporty driving and laid-back cruising. Sure, it’s small, but that means it’s light and nimble. The cabin is surprisingly roomy, whether you choose the cloth top or the Targa-style Miata RF. The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Miata is always at the top of the convertible list for the pure, classic roadster driving experience you want with all of the modern safety and convenience you need. On our $25,000 budget, you should find the top-of-the-line Grand Touring model within reach. See used Mazda MX-5 Miata models for sale near you
2. 2018 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible
The 2018 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible looks like a muscle car and comes from a long line of American iron. In truth, however, the Camaro’s handling and braking are closer to European sports cars than the trundling power monsters of yore. For our money, the 335-horsepower V6-powered 2018 Camaro LS is a good fit, or you can opt for 455 hp and a 6.2-liter V8 in the 2015 Camaro SS. See used Chevrolet Camaro models for sale near you
3. 2018 Ford Mustang Convertible
Much like the Camaro, the 2018 Ford Mustang has outgrown its straight-line roots without forgetting about them, still quick at the drag strip but much more at home on a curvy road. That means the Mustang, like the Miata and the Camaro, offers a great blend of performance and comfort with its own style. While a 460-hp V8 variant was offered for 2018, the 310-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder deserves a look, too, not least because it rates up to 29 mpg on the highway. See used 2018 Ford Mustang models for sale near you
4. 2020 Fiat 124 Spider
Based on the Miata, the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider offers much of the same sporty driving feel but in a somewhat longer, only slightly heavier package. The turbocharged 1.4-liter engine also differs from the Miata’s 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, generating slightly less power despite the turbocharger. It’s fun to drive and full of character, and on our budget, you should be able to take your pick of the trims, including the Abarth or the more luxury-focused Lusso. See used Fiat 124 Spider models for sale near you
5. 2010 Porsche Boxster S
Rounding out our cadre of performance-themed convertibles, the 2010 Porsche Boxster is about a decade older than most of this list, but that’s precisely what you’d expect of a car with this much style, performance, and panache. The only midengine offering on our list, the Boxster’s handling, steering, and braking performance are all top-notch — benchmarks for the class. Our $25,000 budget should afford the Boxster S and its upgraded 3.4-liter 6-cylinder rated for 310 hp. See used Porsche Boxster models for sale near you
6. 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
If fun is a bigger priority than speed, you can hardly go wrong with the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. With its friendly face, expansive open roof, and comfortable ride quality, you’ll be taking in the sights and the breeze and letting go of stress and frustration, provided you can avoid traffic. If you’re a real Beetle fan, consider the Final Edition SEL Convertible, which marks the end of the Beetle line with special equipment and appearance items including Fender audio, upgraded wheels, and an enhanced interior. See used Volkswagen Beetle models for sale near you
7. 2022 Mini Cooper S Convertible
Like a cross between the Beetle and the sportier options above, the 2022 Mini Cooper Convertible proves a front-wheel-drive convertible can have both speed and pace. As fun as it is to drive, especially in 189-hp Cooper S form, the Mini Cooper Convertible is also all about style, with lots of customization options available at the factory and many more in the aftermarket. The Mini may be the best fit if you’re into making your car your own. See used Mini Cooper models for sale near you
8. 2017 BMW 2 Series Convertible
A BMW convertible for less than $25,000? And it’s not a few decades old? It’s true, the 2017 BMW 2 Series Convertible range is now within reach of realistic budgets, and that’s a great thing for those who love the style and the feel of a BMW. Even the base 248-hp 230i is fun to drive and peppy, but the properly quick 335-hp M240i is also available for our money. Either way, you’ll get rear-wheel drive and manual transmission as standard, but all-wheel drive (AWD) and an automatic are available. See used BMW 2 Series models for sale near you
9. 2015 Lexus IS 350C Convertible
A Lexus convertible for less than $25,000, too? It really is a great time to be in the used car market. Although it’s a decade old, the 306-hp V6-powered 2014 Lexus IS 350C at the sweet spot of our budget remains an attractive option for the convertible driver who wants plenty of passing power but also wants to be swaddled in comfort and refinement. See used Lexus IS models for sale near you
10. 2016 Nissan 370Z Roadster
The 2016 Nissan 370Z Roadster is a refreshing combination of modern power and comfort with a more old-school sensibility when it comes to sporty handling — it’s balanced and capable, but without as many electronic aids as you find on cars today. That said, the 370Z Roadster does come with SynchroRev automatic rev-matching on manual-equipped models, enabling flawless downshifts every time. On our budget, the sky is the limit, with even the range-topping Touring Sport Roadster within reach. See used Nissan 370Z models for sale near you
10 Best Used Convertibles Under $25,000
- 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata
- 2018 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible
- 2018 Ford Mustang Convertible
- 2020 Fiat 124 Spider Convertible
- 2010 Porsche Boxster S
- 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
- 2022 Mini Cooper S Convertible
- 2017 BMW 2 Series M240i Convertible
- 2015 Lexus IS 350C Convertible
- 2016 Nissan 370Z Roadster