The best second-hand convertible to buy in 2025

For most buyers, the Mazda MX-5 Miata (ND, 2016–present) is the best second-hand convertible thanks to unmatched reliability, low running costs, and joyful dynamics; if you want more power or luxury, consider a Porsche Boxster 981 (2013–2016) for performance, an Audi A5 Cabriolet (2017–2023) for four-seat practicality, or a Lexus LC 500 Convertible (2021–present) if money-no-object dependability and drama top your list. Choosing the “best” depends on budget, seats needed, and your tolerance for maintenance costs—below, we break down the top picks by use case and what to check before you buy.

How to define “best” in the second-hand convertible market

Second-hand convertibles live at the intersection of passion and practicality. A great choice balances reliability, cost of ownership, parts availability, roof mechanism durability, safety tech, and the kind of driving you enjoy. Two-seaters (Miata, Boxster, Z4) deliver purity and lighter running costs, while four-seat cabrios (A5, C-Class, 2 Series) offer everyday versatility but add weight and complexity. Your ideal model also depends on climate (soft-top versus metal roof), insurance premiums, and whether you plan to track the car or tour long distances.

Top picks by buyer profile

The models below are widely regarded by owners, independent specialists, and road-test consensus as standouts in their categories. Each balances key factors such as reliability, parts support, roof robustness, and value retention in the used market.

• Best overall: Mazda MX-5 Miata ND (2016–present) — Light, reliable, cheap to run, and joyous to drive; simple soft-top, abundant parts, and strong owner community.
• Best performance value: Porsche Boxster 981 (2013–2016) — Naturally aspirated flat-six, superb chassis, and fewer engine worries than earlier 986/987 cars; higher maintenance but rock-solid driver’s car.
• Best four-seat all-rounder: Audi A5 Cabriolet B9 (2017–2023) — Comfortable, refined, and relatively dependable; modern safety tech and usable rear seats without the luxury-brand repair premiums of some rivals.
• Best budget fun: Fiat 124 Spider (2017–2020) — Miata bones with a torquier turbo engine; usually cheaper than an equivalent ND MX-5 and shares many parts benefits.
• Best luxury reliability: Lexus LC 500 Convertible (2021–present) — Hand-built feel, NA V8, and class-leading reliability; expensive to buy, but typically low-drama to own for an exotic.
• Best GT cruiser: BMW 2 Series Convertible F23 (2015–2021) — Comfortable, compact, and engaging; the 230i is efficient, the M240i brings B58-powered punch with reasonable reliability.
• Best premium two-seat alternative: BMW Z4 G29 (2019–present) — Strong B48/B58 engines and a simple soft-top; more comfort than a Miata, less cost than a 718 Boxster.
• Best characterful V8: Ford Mustang Convertible S550 (2015–2023) — Big torque, easy parts, and affordable thrills; watch for manual gearbox (MT82) issues and prioritize well-kept examples.
• Best small city-friendly cabrio: Mini Cooper Convertible F57 (2016–2024) — Cheerful, compact, and more reliable than older Minis; check roof seals and infotainment electronics.
• Best used British roadster flair: Jaguar F-Type Convertible (2014–2023) — Stunning looks and soundtrack; budget for higher maintenance, and get a thorough specialist inspection.

If you want low-risk fun with minimal surprises, the Miata remains the default. If you crave performance and a sonorous engine, the 981 Boxster is unmatched at its price. Four-seat shoppers will find the A5 Cabrio the most balanced choice for daily use, while the LC 500 Convertible is the indulgent pick with unusually robust reliability for a luxury convertible.

What to check before you buy

Convertibles add unique failure points versus coupes. A focused inspection—especially of the roof system and body structure—prevents costly surprises. Use this checklist when viewing any candidate and consider a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a marque specialist.

1. Roof condition and operation: Inspect fabric for wear, stitching, rear window bonding, and frame play. Cycle the roof multiple times; listen for hydraulic/electric strain or sensor glitches.
2. Water ingress: Lift carpets and check trunk/spare-well for dampness. Blocked drain holes are common; look for mildew odors and stained headliners.
3. Body rigidity and crash signs: Excessive scuttle shake or misaligned panels may hint at prior accident damage or structural corrosion.
4. Electrics: Test every switch, window, parking sensors, and infotainment. Roof modules and window drop functions can be expensive fixes.
5. Underside and suspension: Check bushings, ball joints, shocks, and alignment; convertibles are heavier, so consumables may wear faster.
6. Service history: Prioritize cars with documented maintenance—especially fluids, spark plugs/coils, coolant pumps, and roof servicing.
7. Tires and brakes: Mixed brands or uneven wear suggest poor alignment or neglected upkeep; budget accordingly.
8. Powertrain specifics: Research engine/gearbox quirks (e.g., BMW charge pipes/coils, Ford MT82, VAG water pumps, Jaguar cooling). Listen for cold-start rattles and check for codes.
9. Insurance and running costs: Get quotes before buying; premiums can be higher for convertibles and performance trims.
10. Specialist PPI: A brand expert can spot model-specific red flags (roof drains on Miata/124, bore scoring checks on Porsches, Haldex servicing on Audi TT/A5 Quattro).

A methodical inspection saves thousands and often yields price leverage; walk away from cars with water leaks, roof faults, or incomplete records unless priced for repairs.

Running-cost and reliability notes on key models

These model-specific pointers can help you anticipate ownership costs and focus your inspection on known weak points.

• Mazda MX-5 Miata ND: Generally excellent reliability; simple soft-top; 2019+ 2.0L brings more power and 2022+ adds Kinematic Posture Control. Check for track use, alignment, and roof wear on high-mile cars.
• Porsche Boxster 981: Avoids the notorious IMS issues of early 986/987. Maintenance is costlier than mainstream brands; budget for brakes, tires, and frequent fluid changes. Inspect for over-rev ranges and minor coolant or AOS issues.
• BMW 2 Series Convertible F23: 230i is efficient; M240i’s B58 is robust with timely services. Watch for oil leaks, coil/plug wear, and roof microswitch hiccups; verify coolant and transmission service history.
• Audi A5 Cabriolet B9: 2.0T Gen 3 engines are more reliable than older EA888s; still watch for water pumps/thermostats and Haldex servicing on Quattro models. Check roof drains and interior electronics.
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet (A205): Smooth cruiser; maintenance costs can climb. Verify timing components and cooling system health on 2.0T models; inspect airscarf/roof electronics.
• BMW Z4 G29: Strong B48/B58 drivetrains, relatively simple soft-top. Inspect for brake/steering vibrations and infotainment updates; still under many factory warranties in newer examples.
• Ford Mustang S550 Convertible: GT’s 5.0 V8 is stout; ensure proper service. Manual MT82 issues on some years; autos (10R80) had early shift calibration complaints—test thoroughly. Expect higher tire/ brake spend.
• Mini Cooper Convertible F57: Improved reliability versus older Minis. Check roof seals for wind noise/leaks and for carbon buildup or coil wear on higher-mile turbos.
• Jaguar F-Type: Electrifying but pricier to run. Inspect for coolant leaks, differential noise, and door handle mechanisms; ensure software updates and strong service history.
• Fiat 124 Spider: Shares Miata platform; 1.4 Multiair needs clean oil and proper turbo maintenance. Check for boost leaks and regular belt/fluids care.

None of these notes are deal-breakers—just buyer intelligence. A well-kept example of any of the above typically delivers dependable, rewarding ownership.

Budget windows and smart buys

Prices vary by region and mileage, but these tiers reflect common global market patterns as of late 2024. Use them as a guide, not a quote.

• Under budget/entry-level: Older Mazda MX-5 NC (2006–2015), Mini Convertible (early F57), Audi TT Roadster Mk3 (higher miles), BMW Z4 E89 (2009–2016; hardtop—check roof hydraulics), Saab 9-3 Convertible (parts availability varies).
• Mid-range sweet spot: Mazda MX-5 ND, Fiat 124 Spider, BMW 2 Series Convertible F23, Audi A5 Cabriolet B9, Ford Mustang Convertible S550, BMW Z4 G29 (early years, higher miles).
• Premium/performance: Porsche Boxster 981, Jaguar F-Type, Mercedes C-Class Cabriolet (newer, well-specced), Lexus LC 500 Convertible (highest prices but stellar reliability).

The middle tier is where most buyers land: modern safety features, reasonable maintenance, and strong availability. Premium picks deliver thrills and presence but demand a larger maintenance reserve.

Which one should you buy?

If you want the safest bet with joyous handling and the lowest ownership risk, buy a Mazda MX-5 Miata ND with full history. If you prioritize performance and acoustic pleasure, the Porsche Boxster 981 is the standout. Need four proper seats and everyday comfort? The Audi A5 Cabriolet balances refinement, tech, and dependability. If you want a special-occasion convertible that you can trust, the Lexus LC 500 Convertible is rare, stunning, and unusually reliable for its class.

Final buying tips

Always drive multiple examples, insist on a detailed service record, and budget 10–15% of the purchase price as a maintenance reserve—more for premium performance cars. A specialist pre-purchase inspection is money well spent, especially for complex roofs and high-output engines.

Summary

The best second-hand convertible for most people is the Mazda MX-5 Miata ND for its reliability, affordability, and pure driving feel. For more power and prestige, the Porsche Boxster 981 shines; for four-seat usability, the Audi A5 Cabriolet leads; and for luxury with remarkable dependability, the Lexus LC 500 Convertible is the indulgent but sensible splurge. Match the car to your use case, verify roof and service history, and invest in a specialist inspection to secure a great open-top experience.

What is the best second hand convertible car to buy?

Best used convertibles and cabriolets of 2025

• Audi TT Roadster. 8/10.
• Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet. 8/10.
• BMW 4 Series Convertible. SALE.
• Audi A5 Cabriolet. 7/10.
• BMW 2 Series Convertible. 7/10.
• Ford Mustang Convertible. 7/10.
• MINI Convertible. 7/10. MINI Convertible review.
• Fiat 500C. 6/10. Fiat 500C review.

What is the most reliable used convertible?

The most reliable used convertibles include the Mazda MX-5 Miata, consistently praised for its durability and low running costs, and luxury options like the BMW 2 Series convertible and Audi A5 cabriolet, which offer modern technology and performance with strong reliability ratings. Other dependable choices are the Ford Mustang and Toyota Solara, which blend classic style with proven engineering. 
Top Picks for Reliability

• Mazda MX-5 Miata: Opens in new tabA legendary sports car, the MX-5 is known for its compact size, nimble handling, and overall reliability, whether equipped with a manual or automatic top. 
• BMW 2 Series (convertible): Opens in new tabAccording to iSeeCars.com, the 2021 BMW 2 Series convertible stands out as a highly reliable option in the luxury segment. 
• Audi A5 Cabriolet: Opens in new tabOffering a premium feel with advanced technology, the A5 cabriolet features a quick-folding electric fabric roof and a spacious interior, all while maintaining high reliability. 

Other Reliable Options

• Ford Mustang Convertible: Opens in new tabThe iconic Mustang is a reliable choice, providing strong engine performance and classic design. 
• Toyota Solara: Opens in new tabWhile older, the Toyota Solara convertible is another model recommended for its reliability and availability. 
• Porsche 718 Boxster: Opens in new tabA less expensive entry into Porsche ownership, the 718 Boxster offers sporty performance and high-end features with a generally reliable engine. 

Tips for Buying a Reliable Used Convertible

• Consider Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): Look for CPO vehicles, as they often come with extended warranties and have undergone rigorous inspections. 
• Check Reliability Scores: Use resources like iSeeCars.com and Kelley Blue Book for data-driven reliability ratings. 
• Inspect the Roof Mechanism: Convertibles have more components that can fail. Pay close attention to the roof’s condition and functionality, looking for leaks or damage. 

What is the best convertible car of all time?

The best convertibles of all time

• Ferrari F50.
• McLaren 12C Spyder.
• Honda S2000.
• AC Cobra.
• MGB.
• Porsche Boxster.
• Mazda MX-5 ND. You could make a case for each of the four generations of Mazda MX-5.
• Lotus Elan. When Gordon Murray set out to build the McLaren F1, what car do you reckon he benchmarked against?

Is it cheaper to buy a used convertible?

Used convertible cars are cheaper than new ones, but why? Besides the depreciation factor, one of the reasons is because of the potential costs associated with roof repairs. Mechanics can be wary about dismantling the frame, so they will instead prefer to replace the whole thing, which can cost thousands of dollars.