Winter can be the ideal time to pick up a bargain used convertible car. From October to April, demand is traditionally very as the weather takes a turn for the cold and wet, so prices bottom out. It makes sense, especially here in the UK. After all, who wants to be driving a car designed for sunshine when the sky is grey and the temperature is bitter? If only there were cars that offered the open-top joy of motoring, but had proper roofs for locking out the worst winter weather. Thankfully, that’s where hardtop convertibles come in.
Hardtop convertibles really are the best of both worlds. With a proper roof for the winter, such cars can be so quiet and warm with the roof up that there’s little difference between them and a coupe. They also guard against vandalism and are easier to keep in good condition. There’s also something very cool about pressing a button and an array of electric motors and hydraulics working overtime to neatly fold the roof away.
Hardtop convertibles are a dying breed nowadays. The increased complexity, weight penalty and the diminishing appetite for open top motoring has seen the total number of new hardtop convertibles down to high-end supercars or the Mazda MX-5 RF.
The used market however is full of excellent deals on hardtop convertibles, from as little as a few hundred quid. We’ve assembled a selection of our favourites, looking at performance, usability and reliability. With everything from used high-end luxury to hatchback-based tin tops, here are our top 10 hardtop convertibles.
The 10 best used hardtop convertibles
Classy and usable convertible
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The F33 generation BMW 4 Series convertible picked up where the iconic 3 Series convertibles left off, making for a very classy and coupe that could be effortlessly made into a convertible at the press of a button.
It featured all the hallmarks we’d expect of a good BMW. It was well-made and very enjoyable to drive. It's one of the more refined convertibles on this list, with plenty of sound deadening and sumptuous seats. For those chilly mornings, we’d look for one fitted with an optional neck warmer. We'd also look for the full sports car experience with a drop-top BMW M4.
The roof mechanism has proven to be more water resistant than other options of this vintage, but small electric niggles persist, particularly the boot release that loves to fail. we'd also look past 2.0-litre petrol engine (named N20) found in the 428i. It suffered from serious timing chain problems, an expensive and catastrophic issue.
To find out more, read our full BMW 4 Series review
It featured all the hallmarks we’d expect of a good BMW. It was well-made and very enjoyable to drive. It's one of the more refined convertibles on this list, with plenty of sound deadening and sumptuous seats. For those chilly mornings, we’d look for one fitted with an optional neck warmer. We'd also look for the full sports car experience with a drop-top BMW M4.
The roof mechanism has proven to be more water resistant than other options of this vintage, but small electric niggles persist, particularly the boot release that loves to fail. we'd also look past 2.0-litre petrol engine (named N20) found in the 428i. It suffered from serious timing chain problems, an expensive and catastrophic issue.
To find out more, read our full BMW 4 Series review
Pros
- Comfortable cruiser
- Sharp handling
- Strong performance
Cons
- Roof eats boot space
- Heavier than the coupe
Archetypal roadster with extra protection
The third generation (NC3) generation MX-5 could be optioned with what Mazda called a ‘Power Retractable Hard Top’ or PHRT, an electronically controlled glass-reinforced roof. So, if you’re after a used MX-5 with some extra refinement, this fits the bill perfectly.
It’s still an excellent sports car with a joyous gear change and perfectly-balanced handling. Either the 1.8 or 2.0-litre engine is guaranteed to provide plenty of thrills, and both are proving reliable so long as you stay on top of the oil and servicing. The springs are slightly softer than in a soft-top MX-5 but it’s lost none of the nimbleness the MX-5 is famous for.
The boot space is unchanged at a piffling 150 litres and the top folds away in 12 seconds and is neatly covered. Rust is still a concern on the NC, although it’s not as rot prone as the first two generations.
To find out more, read our full Mazda MX-5 (2005-2015) review
It’s still an excellent sports car with a joyous gear change and perfectly-balanced handling. Either the 1.8 or 2.0-litre engine is guaranteed to provide plenty of thrills, and both are proving reliable so long as you stay on top of the oil and servicing. The springs are slightly softer than in a soft-top MX-5 but it’s lost none of the nimbleness the MX-5 is famous for.
The boot space is unchanged at a piffling 150 litres and the top folds away in 12 seconds and is neatly covered. Rust is still a concern on the NC, although it’s not as rot prone as the first two generations.
To find out more, read our full Mazda MX-5 (2005-2015) review
Pros
- Fabulous to drive
- No boot space penalty
- Surprisingly efficient
Cons
- Rust hides itself rather well
- Roof adds some extra weight
Beautifully crafted bargain
The Mercedes-Benz SL is the traditional halo car for the German marque, and the R230 generation is the cheapest way to get a luxurious hardtop convertible built to a simply outstanding finish.
Whether you pick the V6 or the V8 you’ll have plenty of performance at your fingertips. A V6 example will be marginally cheaper to run and maintain, but there’s something so endearing about the buttery-smooth V8.
Mercedes of this era love to rust, but the SL is largely immune thanks to aluminium making up the bulk of the metalwork. The only steel area – the rear quarter panels – can and will rust so inspect it thoroughly. We’d opt for a post 2008 facelift, not only did it get Airscarf which blows warm air from the headrests to keep you warm, it lost its rose-tinted looks.
To find out more, read our Mercedes-Benz SL review
Whether you pick the V6 or the V8 you’ll have plenty of performance at your fingertips. A V6 example will be marginally cheaper to run and maintain, but there’s something so endearing about the buttery-smooth V8.
Mercedes of this era love to rust, but the SL is largely immune thanks to aluminium making up the bulk of the metalwork. The only steel area – the rear quarter panels – can and will rust so inspect it thoroughly. We’d opt for a post 2008 facelift, not only did it get Airscarf which blows warm air from the headrests to keep you warm, it lost its rose-tinted looks.
To find out more, read our Mercedes-Benz SL review
Pros
- Premium look and finish
- Wonderful engine selection
- Luxurious interior
Cons
- Expect premium servicing bills
- Expensive parts too
The SLs smaller, sportier cousin
The original Mercedes SLK was a trailblazer as the first electrically operated hardtop convertible. With retro-styling, a peppy range of small, supercharged engines, and an emphasis on comfortable cruising, this generation of SLK proved to be a popular buy. It all sounds lovely.
Well, not quite. The R170 generation is now known for terminal rust issues and gearboxes that love to implode. We’d much rather take a chance on the far-better R171 generation, with its better reputation for reliability and mini-supercar looks. The boffins at AMG even managed to shoehorn a 5.4-litre V8 engine in for the SLK55 AMG.
Check the roof opens and closes, the hydraulic cylinders can fail over time and it’s an expensive job to fix. Also make sure there’s no water where the spare tyre goes, that could be a sign of perished boot seals.
To find out more, read our full Mercedes SLK review
Well, not quite. The R170 generation is now known for terminal rust issues and gearboxes that love to implode. We’d much rather take a chance on the far-better R171 generation, with its better reputation for reliability and mini-supercar looks. The boffins at AMG even managed to shoehorn a 5.4-litre V8 engine in for the SLK55 AMG.
Check the roof opens and closes, the hydraulic cylinders can fail over time and it’s an expensive job to fix. Also make sure there’s no water where the spare tyre goes, that could be a sign of perished boot seals.
To find out more, read our full Mercedes SLK review
Pros
- Popularised the hardtop convertible
- Robust mechanicals
- Big car refinement
Cons
- Unexciting to drive
- Various rust hotspots
| <strong>Parkers rating</strong> | 4 stars |
| <strong>Used price from</strong> | £1,500 |
| <strong>Power</strong> | 197hp (SLK230) |
| <strong>0-62mph</strong> | 7.3s |
| <strong>Fuel economy</strong> | 28-31mpg |
Classy, luxurious and safe
As a family-focused convertible from a firm with a strong reputation for safety, the C70 Coupe Convertible was packed with pioneering safety features. This included whiplash protection, optional blind spot detection, and curtain airbags, which were a first for an open-topped car.
This isn’t just a healthy and safety seminar on wheels, the C70 oozes style both inside and out. Wrap all of that with the excellent reliability record and built quality, and the C70 makes for a dependable and stylish convertible.
There is ample room for four adults, with decent leg- and headroom. Keen drivers are catered for too, the C70 T5 came with a fabulous 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine, the same used in the second-generation Ford Focus ST. Only small issues have ever been reported, usually rattles and broken interior trim.
To find out more, read our full Volvo C70 Coupe Convertible review
This isn’t just a healthy and safety seminar on wheels, the C70 oozes style both inside and out. Wrap all of that with the excellent reliability record and built quality, and the C70 makes for a dependable and stylish convertible.
There is ample room for four adults, with decent leg- and headroom. Keen drivers are catered for too, the C70 T5 came with a fabulous 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine, the same used in the second-generation Ford Focus ST. Only small issues have ever been reported, usually rattles and broken interior trim.
To find out more, read our full Volvo C70 Coupe Convertible review
Pros
- High safety levels
- Efficient diesel engines
- Proving to be reliable
Cons
- Low mileage examples rare
- Average boot for a car this size
| <strong>Parkers rating</strong> | 4 stars |
| <strong>Used price from</strong> | £3,470 |
| <strong>Power</strong> | 170hp (2.4) |
| <strong>0-62mph</strong> | 9.7s |
| <strong>Fuel economy</strong> | 29mpg |
Sportiness with refinement
BMW’s follow up to the original Z4 went upmarket; more refined and sophisticated throughout. It was the only generation to feature a folding metal hard top, a neat three-piece arrangement.
It’s not the sharp sports car the first generation model was, it’s softer in corners and more focused on refinement and luxury than being an ultimate driving machine. Don’t get us wrong, push it and it’ll behave like a sports car, but it’s far more suited to cruising.
Leaking roofs and failed mechanisms aren’t a widespread issue but always make sure the motors tidy the roof away neatly. The Z4 also came with hard-wearing run-flat tyres as standard, but don’t be shocked to see those ditched for nicer, more compliant rubber. They’re a reliable pick, just be weary of high milers.
To find out more, read our full BMW Z4 review
It’s not the sharp sports car the first generation model was, it’s softer in corners and more focused on refinement and luxury than being an ultimate driving machine. Don’t get us wrong, push it and it’ll behave like a sports car, but it’s far more suited to cruising.
Leaking roofs and failed mechanisms aren’t a widespread issue but always make sure the motors tidy the roof away neatly. The Z4 also came with hard-wearing run-flat tyres as standard, but don’t be shocked to see those ditched for nicer, more compliant rubber. They’re a reliable pick, just be weary of high milers.
To find out more, read our full BMW Z4 review
Pros
- Stylish looks
- Luxurious interior
- Sporty handling
Cons
- Run-flat tyres aren't great for the ride
- Quite a big car
| <strong>Parkers rating</strong> | 4.5 stars |
| <strong>Used price from</strong> | £8,250 |
| <strong>Power</strong> | 185hp (20i sDrive) |
| <strong>0-62mph</strong> | 6.7s |
| <strong>Fuel economy</strong> | 41mpg |
Stylish, high quality cruiser
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With a five-section roof complete with separate panoramic sunroof, the Eos takes the gold for the most complex roof arrangement on this list. Built on the same platform as the Mk 5 Volkswagen Golf but sporting unique body panels and mechanical similarities with the Volkswagen Passat.
A slew of sensible diesel and petrol models litter our used car section, but we’d plug for a facelifted model complete with the petrol VR6 engine and it’s potent 256hp. Mechanically, the Eos is pretty bombproof, and used examples are proving to be excellent value for money.
A roof as complex as the Eos will inevitably lead to a few issues, and despite excellent build quality when new, leaks and water ingress are widespread. The seals can perish with age, and the boot is prone to leaking too. To make matters worse, the roof pump in said boot is wrapped in foam and doesn’t deal well with the sogginess.
To find out more, read our full Volkswagen Eos review
A slew of sensible diesel and petrol models litter our used car section, but we’d plug for a facelifted model complete with the petrol VR6 engine and it’s potent 256hp. Mechanically, the Eos is pretty bombproof, and used examples are proving to be excellent value for money.
A roof as complex as the Eos will inevitably lead to a few issues, and despite excellent build quality when new, leaks and water ingress are widespread. The seals can perish with age, and the boot is prone to leaking too. To make matters worse, the roof pump in said boot is wrapped in foam and doesn’t deal well with the sogginess.
To find out more, read our full Volkswagen Eos review
Pros
- Refined and comfortable to drive
- Lots of engines to pick from
- Proven mechancial reliability
Cons
- Passenger space only average
- That complex roof is troublesome
| <strong>Parkers rating</strong> | 4 stars |
| <strong>Used prices from</strong> | £2,495 |
| <strong>Power</strong> | 150hp (2.0 FSU) |
| <strong>0-62mph</strong> | 9.5s |
| <strong>Fuel economy</strong> | 34mpg |
Rare car that's feisty and fun
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If you want to stand out from the crowd, the short-lived and very fizzy Renault Wind might be the car for you. It’s a weird take on the hardtop convertible formula, with the roof flipping backwards. This simple mechanism means it only weighs 21.8kg. It doesn’t even eat that much into the boot space which is a healthy 270 litres.
The Wind is based on the tiny Twingo and was developed by Renaultsport which means keen handling and a fun experience. There was a choice of either a 1.2 or fizzier 1.6-litre VVT engine for some surprisingly keen performance. We’ll take ours in racy Gordini spec resplendent with stripes and blue-tinged wheels.
Even new these developed a reputation for leaking like an old tap, and those roof seals only have gotten worse with age. The interior, while well-equipped when new isn’t particularly sturdy or finished to the best standard.
To find out more, read our full Renault Wind review
The Wind is based on the tiny Twingo and was developed by Renaultsport which means keen handling and a fun experience. There was a choice of either a 1.2 or fizzier 1.6-litre VVT engine for some surprisingly keen performance. We’ll take ours in racy Gordini spec resplendent with stripes and blue-tinged wheels.
Even new these developed a reputation for leaking like an old tap, and those roof seals only have gotten worse with age. The interior, while well-equipped when new isn’t particularly sturdy or finished to the best standard.
To find out more, read our full Renault Wind review
Pros
- Fun driving experience
- Quirky looks
- Surprisingly big boot
Cons
- Rubbish rear visibility
- Those roof seals will probably leak
| <strong>Parkers rating</strong> | 4 stars |
| <strong>Used price from</strong> | £3,499 |
| <strong>Power</strong> | 100hp (1.2 TCe) |
| <strong>0-62mph</strong> | 10.2s |
| <strong>Fuel economy</strong> | 44mpg |
Miniature hardtop sports car
The Copen is a charming and cute hardtop convertible. Made to tight Japanese Kei-car regulations that strictly given the dimensions and performance of a car for tax purposes, the copen was officially imported into the UK. They were genuinely tiny and originally sported an engine more suited to lawnmowers than cars - a turbocharged 660cc engine.
In 2007, that unit was swapped for a 1.3-litre engine which offered better performance and efficiency figures. It’s never going to be a proper sports car experience, but it’s undeniably fun. The electronically activated roof is a highlight too, even if it eats the entire boot when stowed away.
There are two big killers for the Copen, rust and compromise. The former is that any part of metal will rot at this age; holes in the sills, boot area and subframe are not uncommon. The latter is the pathetic boot size, even with the roof up, and a cramped interior. It’s best suited to light driving duties, a long road trip will be a recipe for back ache and misery.
To find out more, read our full Daihatsu Copen review
In 2007, that unit was swapped for a 1.3-litre engine which offered better performance and efficiency figures. It’s never going to be a proper sports car experience, but it’s undeniably fun. The electronically activated roof is a highlight too, even if it eats the entire boot when stowed away.
There are two big killers for the Copen, rust and compromise. The former is that any part of metal will rot at this age; holes in the sills, boot area and subframe are not uncommon. The latter is the pathetic boot size, even with the roof up, and a cramped interior. It’s best suited to light driving duties, a long road trip will be a recipe for back ache and misery.
To find out more, read our full Daihatsu Copen review
Pros
- A doddle to park
- Cute, eye-catching looks
- Hoot and a half to drive
Cons
- Tiny cabin
- Rust is a massive issue
| <strong>Parkers rating</strong> | 3.5 stars |
| <strong>Used price from</strong> | £2,495 |
| <strong>Power</strong> | 86hp (1.3) |
| <strong>0-62mph</strong> | 9.2s |
| <strong>Fuel economy</strong> | 47mpg |
Cheap and reliable drop-top
Price: From £305
The Colt CZC had all the tools needed to be a sporty droptop. It was designed by Pininfarina (the same group that penned numerous pretty Ferraris), could be optioned with a reasonably rapid 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, and was a neat to drive with the rood in place. They’re also exceptionally cheap to buy second hand.
There are a few problems which explains the lower ranking on our list. The interior is oddly proportioned, with a massive dashboard and huge windows, but rear seats are totally useless. And while styling is ultimately subjective, the Colt stands out as a frontrunner in the odd proportions race. That angular, wedge-shaped styling at the front is at odds with the stumpy, horizontal rear end.
The interior quality is also lacking, with plenty of scratchy plastics. They are proving to be fairly reliable though, even as early examples near 20 years old. In a nutshell, the Colt CZC is reliable, but not particularly desirable.
To find out more, read our full Mitsubishi Colt CZC review
There are a few problems which explains the lower ranking on our list. The interior is oddly proportioned, with a massive dashboard and huge windows, but rear seats are totally useless. And while styling is ultimately subjective, the Colt stands out as a frontrunner in the odd proportions race. That angular, wedge-shaped styling at the front is at odds with the stumpy, horizontal rear end.
The interior quality is also lacking, with plenty of scratchy plastics. They are proving to be fairly reliable though, even as early examples near 20 years old. In a nutshell, the Colt CZC is reliable, but not particularly desirable.
To find out more, read our full Mitsubishi Colt CZC review
Pros
- Very quick turbo model
- Usefully practical
- Comfy seats up front
Cons
- Looks a bit gawky
- Rear seats are for vanity purposes
| <strong>Parkers rating</strong> | 3 stars |
| <strong>Used price from</strong> | £2,100 |
| <strong>Power</strong> | 150hp (1.5 Turbo) |
| <strong>0-62mph</strong> | 8.1s |
| <strong>Fuel economy</strong> | 39mpg |
Prices based on examples found on Parkers Cars for Sale and limited to availability. Similar examples may be on offer. Prices correct at time of publication. Pictures not representative of specific examples.
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