Convertible Buying Guide
Find your ideal convertible here
What are Convertibles?
A convertible car is in a league of its own. All feature a drop-down or slide-away roof to connect you to the outdoors and enhance that sense of open-road freedom. Available in compact, midsize, and performance models, there really is a convertible for everyone. Some focus on sporty handling, while others prioritize space, comfort, or city-friendly dimensions. In recent years, improved body designs, user-friendly roof technology, and the introduction of electric powertrains have made convertibles more practical than ever. From two-seat roadsters to two-row cruisers, with soft- or hard-top options, each convertible offers its own distinct personality.
Benefits of Owning a Used Convertible
Driving a convertible transforms routine commutes and daily errands into immersive and sensory experiences. With the roof lowered, the connection to the road, your surroundings, and the vehicle itself are immediately enhanced. Even cold days with the roof down can be enjoyable if it's sunny, plus many models come equipped with heated seats and neck-warmer technology.
Open-air freedom enhances sensory engagement
Greater connection to engine and road feedback
Panoramic, unobstructed views
Almost instant open/closed roof flexibility
Road trips take on an evocative, upscale feel
A convertible’s dual-purpose design offers the best of both worlds, combining open-air excitement with everyday practicality, should conditions call for it. With the ability to switch between roof-down freedom and enclosed comfort, convertibles adapt easily to changing weather, different seasons, and personal driving preferences.
Roof-down capability in sunny conditions
Enclosed comfort when rain or cold set in
Year-round versatility, wherever you travel
Flexible cabin atmosphere on demand
One car, two stylish silhouettes
Nothing quite matches the curb appeal of a convertible. No matter the model, friends will ask about it, and strangers take a second look. It doesn't even matter what type of car yoy prefer. The Ford Mustang convertible delivers iconic presence wherever it goes; the Fiat 124 Spider has sharp, sporty agility; and the Volkswagen Beetle convertible and Fiat 500C offer retro-inspired charm. Every convertible has the fun factor in one way or another.
Eye-catching silhouettes
Head-turning urban cruising
Highly desirable, iconic styles
Upscale midsize models and sporty two-seaters
A sense of occasion every time you drive
Many of today's convertibles have strong RepairPal® ratings, meaning more time enjoying the open road and fewer trips to the shop. The Mercedes-Benz C300, Mazda MX-5 Miata, and Chevrolet Camaro are some of the convertible models that have earned ‘Above Average’ 3.5 or 4.0 out of 5.0 according to RepairPal.
These ratings reflect their repair costs, frequency and severity of repairs, and annual maintenance costs.Plenty of ‘Above-Average’ RepairPal ratings
Manageable repair frequency and costs
Midsize models share components with coupe/sedan versions
Enjoyable driving without added ownership stress
Modern roof opening mechanisms
How to Choose a Used Convertible
Finding your ideal used convertible starts with understanding which models suit your lifestyle. So ask yourself what journeys you’ll be making regularly and who’s along for the ride. Those answers will help you work out if you need spacious comfort and conveniences, and whether a two- or four-seat model is right for you.
City-friendly size or midsize highway cruising?
Garage, driveway, or on-street parking?
When choosing a used convertible, your budget will shape the model you choose as well as its age, mileage, and features available. Think about opting for an older or higher-mileage version to secure your favorite convertible for less. Base trim versions also make premium convertibles more accessible. Use our comparison tools and model-year guides to find the features you value most, via different model years, trim levels, or packages.
Carmax used convertibles typically range from $13,599 to $75,000 or more
Factor in ongoing ownership expenses, insurance, and fuel costs
Focus on the specifications that matter most to you, and you’ll enjoy every day in your convertible. Do you value performance powertrains, fuel efficiency, ride comfort, or modern tech? As these features vary so widely between model years and trims, narrowing down essential features and non-negotiables is a great move. Add any nice-to-haves on a particular vehicle once you’re all set with the make and model that best suits your lifestyle.
Check out engine size and fuel economy ratings
Look for package add-ons that upgrade the audio or infotainment
Try different model years for favorite paint colors or features
Compare Used Convertibles
The Ford Mustang is a midsize convertible with an iconic muscle car silhouette and impressively powerful engine options. As a two-seat roadster, the MX-5 Miata prioritizes engaging driving dynamics and light-touch handling.
Ford Mustang Advantages
Plenty of power and torque from the available engine options
Roomy interior and good cargo space
Classic exterior styling with modern interior tech
Mazda MX-5 Miata Advantages
Responsive handling at every turn
Pleasing fuel economy
Sporty and fun in equal measure
The Ford Mustang convertible blends sporting performance and muscle car styling with everyday usability. The 2010-2019 Nissan 370Z Roadster offers raw V6 performance and classic roadster curb appeal.
Ford Mustang Advantages
Powerful engine options for comfortable or spirited cruising
Roomy two-row cabin and generous cargo space
Head-turning athletic silhouette
Nissan Z Convertible Advantages
Power-retractable soft top
Engagingly taut handling
Standard automatic transmission
The midsize Camaro is an unmistakably athletic convertible option, focusing on engine performance and overall ride enjoyment. The two-seat MX-5 Miata roadster offers an altogether lighter touch, thanks to its engaging agility and playful character.
Chevrolet Camaro Advantages
Emphasis on turbocharged powertrain performance
Broader, midsize muscle car appearance
Second row of seating
Mazda MX-5 Miata Advantages
Responsive handling
Pleasing fuel economy figures
Retractable hard top and soft top options
These premium midsize convertibles deliver refinement and performance. The Audi A5 favors upscale finishing, while the BMW 430 focuses more on its dynamic driving appeal across the most recent model years.
Audi A5 Advantages
Balanced blend of performance and comfort
Refined interior with great tech
Luxurious everyday enjoyment
BMW 430 Advantages
Sharp, driver-focused handling
Punchy acceleration
Recent models offer pleasing fuel economy
These roadsters are fun and lightweight. The MX-5 Miata is sharper and more responsive, while the Fiat 124 Spider has a more elegant edge to its silhouette. They are both based on the same platform so many of the differences come down to looks and available features.
Mazda MX-5 Miata Advantages
Lively and responsive handling
Soft- and hard-top options
Unique fun-factor
Fiat 124 Spider Advantages
Taut handling on the tightest of curves
Easy-up, easy-down soft top roof
Sporty and engaging drive
Want to compare more models as you continue your research?
Try out our comparison toolConvertible Types
A compact convertible combines open-air freedom with urban practicality. Characterized by their smaller size and lighter weight, they offer nimble handling, convenient parking dimensions, and often, agreeable fuel efficiency. Look out for compact two- and four-seat models, as well as soft- and hard-top options. While cargo space can be limited, many four-seaters have a fold-down second row that increases cargo capacity, while some compact two-seaters come equipped with a load-through hatch.
Key Features
Compact footprint, great for tight parking lots and narrow streets
Lighter, more responsive road handling
Smaller, turbocharged engines emphasize driver enjoyment
Popular Models
For drivers who want the enjoyment of a convertible, practical needs can still come first. Family life, road trips, commuting comfort, or hobby equipment all make a midsize convertible an appealing choice. Typically designed for four passengers across two rows, a midsize convertible features two or four doors, greater trunk capacity compared to smaller models, and an upscale interior with advanced technology.
Key Features
Composed handling
Trunk capacity suitable for hobbyists, families, and weekend adventures
Spacious second rows for adult passengers
Popular Models
Popular Used Convertibles
Want to know what's popular right now? Check out this list highlighting the five best used convertibles based on CarMax sales and vehicle data. For classic American muscle, the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro convertibles rank first and third, blending everyday ride enjoyment with athletic powertrains and iconic styling. In second place is the Mazda MX-5 Miata, a lightweight and responsive two-seat roadster that offers unforgettable driving dynamics. The MINI Cooper and Volkswagen Beetle convertibles round off the list. Both offer four-seat practicality, charm, and fun, plus with the MINI, there’s nifty fuel economy too.
We've compiled a list of most popular used convertibles with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
CarMax owner rating
2. Chevrolet Camaro
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Impressive handling
Strong acceleration
Smooth ride
Cons
Poor visibility
Tiny rear seat
Limited trunk space
3. Mini Cooper
CarMax owner rating
FAQs about convertibles
Hard tops favor comfort and all-season use, while soft tops suit mild climates and enjoyable urban routes. Hardtop convertibles feel more like regular cars: they offer more insulation from the weather, but they’re heavier and have less usable trunk space. Soft-top convertibles are often lighter and more responsive, with simpler mechanisms for opening and closing the roof.
In short, yes, they can be. Due to their head-turning sporty silhouettes and powerful engines, a convertible may be considered worthy of a higher insurance premium compared to the equivalent sedan or compact. While they don't necessarily always have higher repair costs, but they do have specialised roof mechanisms, reinforced structures, and soft top materials that can be subject to wear and tear or vandalism.
For two passengers taking their time on a coastal road tour, the Mazda MX-5 Miata roadster is responsive and fun, ideally suited to a meandering trip through stunning scenery. Traveling light is recommended due to its maximum 4.59 cu ft of trunk space.
For ride comfort and luxury, the four-seater Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet and BMW 4 Series Convertible offer cabin comfort, high-end tech, and plenty of luggage space for a longer trip.
For pleasing fuel economy, the 2018–2024 four-seat Mini Cooper Convertible uses a 1.5L turbo engine, which can achieve an EPA-estimated 31 or 32 mpg combined, depending on model year.*
For two-seat fun, the 2016–2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata features a 2.0L engine with manual or automatic transmission and can achieve an EPA-estimated 29–30 mpg combined, also model year dependent.*
Check out our MPG calculator to compare other convertible models in our inventory.
*Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov
Choosing the best convertible depends on your needs. Convertibles serve a range of lifestyles, from focus-built sports cars to plush luxury cruisers. Some models can seat four to five people, while others are limited to just two. And if you need to head off road, there are even convertible SUVs. Check out our comparison of some of the best used convertibles for more help making the right pick for you.
A hard top offers superior insulation from noise and extreme hot or cold weather, but adds weight and complexity. A soft top is lighter and simpler, but usually offers less isolation and usually comes with special care considerations.
Many sports cars, muscle cars, and luxury coupes are available as convertibles. Brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Chevrolet, and more offer convertible models. Some models, like the Porsche 718 Boxster or Mazda MX-5 Miata, are only offered as convertibles. Off-road SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco come with removable roofs that offer open-top driving.
A convertible or cabriolet is any car with a retractable or removable roof. It’s a broad term that includes any number of sports cars, luxury cars, and even SUVs.
The term roadster refers to an open-top, two-seater car. Traditionally, roadsters did not offer folding or retractable roofs, but rather fully removable roofs that came with transparent flaps in place of roll-down windows.
Today, they all feature retractable roofs and roadsters refer to smaller, lightweight two-seater convertibles, such as the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Research convertibles & roadsters
Learn more about convertibles
Ready to find your convertible?
How we ranked these vehicles
Our "Best of" lists represent the most popular vehicles with CarMax customers. To create the Best lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period and rank the top selling vehicles in order. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Each list includes the specific dates used when it was generated. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.
To create our "Most Reliable" lists, our analysts pull the top most reliable vehicles—in order—according to RepairPal rankings. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings.
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to provide legal, financial or investment advice. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before transacting and consider talking to a qualified professional about your unique circumstances.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.