Some shoppers prefer the ‘roadster’-- a two-seat convertible that offers up a more personal experience. Models like the BMW Z4, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Porsche Boxster and Pontiac Solstice are all examples.
Remember that owning a convertible doesn’t always mean taking a hit where sensibility and functionality is concerned. Larger models are typically built on the same platform as a coupe or sedan-- meaning they’re easy to enter and exit, offer reasonable trunk and interior space, and drive much like their fixed-roof counterparts.
Running errands on a rainy day? With the roof up, most convertibles offer virtually the same trunk space as the standard model on which they’re based.
Roadsters are more limited when it comes to cabin and cargo volume although their lightweight, aerodynamic bodies and performance engines typically translate into surprisingly good fuel economy. Most models, roadster or otherwise, even come with a power-operated top that leaves ‘wind-in-your-hair’ motoring a mere button-press away.
Test-drive day—don’t rush it
Once you’ve determined your budget and which model(s) you’re interested in, line up test-drives of several candidates on days when you’ve got time to spend an hour or more with each one.
But don’t be in a rush to get behind the wheel straight away. Before setting off on a test-drive, some mandatory checks are necessary to ensure you aren’t about to dish out your dineros on a machine in need of expensive repairs. Remember that when lust impedes judgement, it’s easier to overlook warning signs that the vehicle may be problematic.
Manual or motorized, put the roof up and down several times ensuring that the hinges move freely, the roof assembly doesn’t bind or catch and that the roof itself is free of damage. Does that cloth top have rips? Tears? Excessive wear? Duct-tape patches? Does the roof motor on that power-top model whine and strain like an overloaded food-processor? If so, call it into pricing negotiations or move to another model.
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| 2009 BMW Z4 (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
Remember that owning a convertible doesn’t always mean taking a hit where sensibility and functionality is concerned. Larger models are typically built on the same platform as a coupe or sedan-- meaning they’re easy to enter and exit, offer reasonable trunk and interior space, and drive much like their fixed-roof counterparts.
Running errands on a rainy day? With the roof up, most convertibles offer virtually the same trunk space as the standard model on which they’re based.
Roadsters are more limited when it comes to cabin and cargo volume although their lightweight, aerodynamic bodies and performance engines typically translate into surprisingly good fuel economy. Most models, roadster or otherwise, even come with a power-operated top that leaves ‘wind-in-your-hair’ motoring a mere button-press away.
Test-drive day—don’t rush it
Once you’ve determined your budget and which model(s) you’re interested in, line up test-drives of several candidates on days when you’ve got time to spend an hour or more with each one.
But don’t be in a rush to get behind the wheel straight away. Before setting off on a test-drive, some mandatory checks are necessary to ensure you aren’t about to dish out your dineros on a machine in need of expensive repairs. Remember that when lust impedes judgement, it’s easier to overlook warning signs that the vehicle may be problematic.
Manual or motorized, put the roof up and down several times ensuring that the hinges move freely, the roof assembly doesn’t bind or catch and that the roof itself is free of damage. Does that cloth top have rips? Tears? Excessive wear? Duct-tape patches? Does the roof motor on that power-top model whine and strain like an overloaded food-processor? If so, call it into pricing negotiations or move to another model.
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| Manual or motorized, put the roof up and down several times ensuring that the hinges move freely. (Photo: Bertrand Godin/Auto123.com) |