The best used convertible to buy in 2025

For most buyers, the 2016–2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata (ND) is the best used convertible: it’s affordable, exceptionally reliable, cheap to run, and unmatched for open-air driving fun. If you want more luxury or rear seats, standout alternatives include the 2013–2016 Porsche Boxster (981), 2018–2023 Audi A5 Cabriolet, 2017–2020 BMW 430i/440i Convertible, 2018–2022 Ford Mustang Convertible, and the 2021–present Lexus LC 500 Convertible for top-tier comfort and dependability.

How we chose: reliability, running costs, and real-world use

Picking the “best” used convertible isn’t one-size-fits-all. We evaluated models using criteria that matter on the road and in your wallet, then prioritized cars with strong reliability records and available parts and service.

• Reliability history and known issues, including powertrain and roof mechanisms
• Cost to maintain and insure; parts availability and specialist support
• Driving experience and roof refinement at highway speeds
• Everyday usability: cargo, visibility, noise, comfort, and rear-seat practicality (if applicable)
• Safety and available driver-assistance features
• Value retention and market pricing as of 2024–2025

Taken together, these factors point to models that feel special with the roof down and don’t punish you at service time.

Top picks by type and budget

Best overall: Mazda MX-5 Miata (ND, 2016–2023)

The ND Miata nails the convertible brief: light, simple, and joyful at any speed, with bulletproof reliability and modest maintenance. The 2019 refresh brought a stronger 181-hp engine and a telescoping steering wheel; 2022 added subtle chassis tuning (Kinematic Posture Control). The RF targa-style power roof is quieter at speed; the soft-top is lighter and simpler. Expect excellent fuel economy and some of the lowest ownership costs in the segment.

What to check: roof fabric wear around bows and header, rear window visibility, damp carpets (blocked drains), differential whine, corrosion on cars from salty climates, and evidence of track abuse. The Miata’s simplicity also makes pre-purchase inspections quick and worthwhile.

Best premium sports car: Porsche Boxster (987.2 2009–2012, 981 2013–2016; 718 2017–2020+)

For pure dynamics with daily-driver manners, the mid-engined Boxster is superb. The 2013–2016 981 is the sweet spot: no IMS-bearing worries, timeless steering feel, and a cabin that has aged well. The earlier 2009–2012 987.2 is a strong value with similarly robust engines. The 2017–2020 718 adds punchy turbo fours (better performance, less character); 2021+ “GTS 4.0” brings back a charismatic flat-six but at a steep price.

What to check: full service history, top operation and drain cleanliness, brake and tire condition, coolant leaks, and a DME over-rev report. Budget for higher parts and labor than mainstream brands and get a pre-purchase inspection from a Porsche specialist.

Best four-seat everyday convertibles: Audi A5 Cabriolet (2018–2023) and BMW 4 Series Convertible

Need real rear seats and a quiet highway ride? The 2018–2023 Audi A5 Cab (B9) pairs a well-insulated soft-top with a refined 2.0T and a durable ZF 8-speed; Quattro helps year-round usability. On the BMW side, the 2017–2020 430i/440i (F33, folding hardtop) offers coupe-like refinement, while the 2021–present 430i/440i (G23, fabric top) is lighter, roomier, and more efficient. BMW’s B48 (4-cyl) and B58 (6-cyl) engines have strong reliability records when maintained.

What to check: roof seals and drains (look for damp trunk/carpet), window regulators, infotainment glitches, and past accident repairs. On F33 cars, inspect the hardtop’s hinges and hydraulic components; on G23/A5 soft-tops, look closely at stitching and rear-window bonding.

Best budget V8 fun: Ford Mustang Convertible (2018–2022) — or EcoBoost for savings

The post-refresh 2018–2022 Mustang blends everyday comfort with serious performance. The 5.0 V8 delivers theater; the 10-speed automatic has proven durable. The turbo 2.3 EcoBoost is plenty quick and cheaper to run. Look for Performance Pack and, if possible, MagneRide for better body control. Note that 2018–2019 manual (MT-82) cars had more shift-quality complaints; later cars improved. Camaro Convertible (2017–2023) is a sharp-driving alternative; prefer 2019+ with the 10-speed to avoid the earlier 8-speed torque-converter shudder.

What to check: top alignment and latch wear, panel fit, evidence of burnout/track use, and for V8s, any abnormal ticking or high oil consumption; ensure TSBs and software updates are done.

Best luxury reliability: Lexus LC 500 Convertible (2021–present)

If budget allows, the LC 500 Convertible is the unicorn: a naturally aspirated V8 grand tourer that’s as dependable as it is gorgeous. Ride quality, noise isolation, and material quality are among the best in any convertible, new or used. Running costs are lower and reliability higher than comparable German V8 soft-tops.

What to check: flawless roof operation and alignment, top fabric wear at fold points, and that all software updates and roof-related TSBs are completed. Trunk space is tight; make sure it fits your use case.

Other smart buys to cross-shop

These models can be excellent values depending on your market and priorities, often with fewer gotchas than their reputations suggest.

• BMW Z4 (G29, 2019–present): Light, quick, comfortable; the 30i (B48) balances pace and economy; the M40i (B58) is a stealth rocket.
• Audi TT Roadster (Mk3, 2016–2023): Quattro grip, simple soft-top, reliable 2.0T; more cruiser than canyon carver but easy to live with.
• Fiat 124 Spider/Abarth (2017–2020): Miata-based with turbo torque; check for timing cover seep and EGR concerns; great value.
• Mini Cooper Convertible (F57, 2019–present refresh): Charming urban runabout; seek B48-engined cars and avoid heavy mods; watch for roof mechanism wear.
• Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet (A238, 2018–2020+): Quiet, comfortable four-seat luxury; verify air suspension and electronics health.
• Jaguar F-Type Convertible (2016–2020+): Spectacular sound and style; prioritize cars with meticulous service records; inspect rear diff and cooling system.
• Honda S2000 (2004–2009): Legendary manual and engine; prices are high, but ownership is straightforward if unmodified.
• Lexus IS C (2013–2015): Retractable hardtop, bulletproof V6; heavy and dated but extremely reliable.

These choices span weekend toys to daily-friendly cruisers; condition and maintenance history matter more than options lists in this tier.

Models/years to approach cautiously

No used convertible is perfect, but some combinations of design quirks and repair costs make certain versions riskier for typical buyers. Here’s where extra diligence or avoidance pays off.

• Porsche Boxster 986 (1997–2004) and 987.1 (2005–2008): Intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing risks and potential bore scoring; only buy with documentation, upgrades, or specialist inspection.
• Chevrolet Camaro (2016–2018, 8-speed auto): Known torque-converter shudder; ensure TSB flushes and updated parts or prefer the 10-speed (2019+).
• BMW 2/3/4 Series with early N20/N26 (circa 2012–2014): Timing chain guide concerns; later B48/B58 engines are safer bets.
• Mini with N14 engines (pre-2011–2012): Carbon buildup, timing chain tensioners, and high oil consumption; stick to later B48/B38 generations.
• VW Eos (pre-2012): Complex hardtop leaks, sunroof issues, and early TSI chain-tensioner failures; only buy the very best with proof of fixes.
• Early Jaguar F-Type (2014): More electrical gremlins reported; 2016+ improved.
• Range Rover Evoque Convertible (2017–2019): Novelty factor, high complexity, and mixed reliability; value proposition is weak.

If you love one of these, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection and documented fixes can still make ownership feasible—but budget accordingly.

What to inspect on any used convertible

Convertibles add moving parts and weatherproofing challenges. A careful check can save thousands and hours of hassle later.

• Roof system: Run it fully several times, listening for hesitations; inspect fabric, stitching, seals, and rear-window bond; on hardtops, check hydraulics and hinges.
• Water ingress: Lift trunk floor and cabin carpets for dampness or mold; confirm drain holes are clear.
• Body and structure: Look for cowl shake on test drives, uneven panel gaps, and evidence of crash repairs or corrosion underneath.
• Electricals: Windows, locks, infotainment, parking sensors, cameras—water damage often shows up here first.
• Mechanical health: Cold start, idle quality, service records, and a scan for stored fault codes; match tire brands/ages and check for cupping or inner-edge wear.
• Recalls and TSBs: Verify completion by VIN with a dealer; some roof and transmission updates are critical.
• Insurance and security: Get a quote first; verify the car includes wind deflector, key spares, and top tools/partitions.

Always invest in an independent pre-purchase inspection—ideally by a marque specialist—and walk away from any car with signs of chronic leaks or electrical issues.

Pricing and ownership costs in 2025

Prices vary by mileage, spec, and region, but these are realistic shopping ranges in today’s market: Miata ND $15,000–$28,000; Boxster 987.2/981 $30,000–$60,000 (718 typically $45,000+); Audi A5 Cab $22,000–$40,000; BMW 430i/440i (F33) $23,000–$40,000, G23 $38,000+; Mustang $20,000–$45,000 (V8 higher); BMW Z4 $28,000–$50,000; TT Roadster $22,000–$38,000; Jaguar F-Type $35,000–$70,000; Lexus LC 500 Convertible $85,000–$130,000. Insurance for convertibles is often 10–25% higher than their coupe/sedan equivalents; soft-top replacements typically run $1,500–$4,000, hardtop mechanism repairs can exceed $4,000–$7,000.

Bottom line

If you want the safest bet, buy a well-kept 2016–2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata. For a richer sports-car experience, target a 2013–2016 Porsche 981 Boxster with documented maintenance. Need four seats? Shop the 2018–2023 Audi A5 Cabriolet or 2017–2020 BMW 430i/440i (or 2021+ G23 if budget allows). For V8 drama, the 2018–2022 Mustang Convertible delivers; for dependable high-end luxury, the 2021+ Lexus LC 500 Convertible is peerless. Regardless of model, prioritize condition, service history, and a thorough roof-system inspection.

Summary

The best used convertible for most people is the Mazda MX-5 Miata ND for its blend of fun, reliability, and low costs. Shoppers wanting more power, luxury, or seats should consider the Porsche 981 Boxster, Audi A5 Cabriolet, BMW 4 Series Convertible, Ford Mustang, or Lexus LC 500 Convertible. In every case, a careful inspection—especially of the roof and electronics—matters more than chasing the cheapest price.

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 second hand convertible 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 best reliable second hand car to buy?

Best Used Cars 2025: the shortlist

• Toyota Corolla (2019-present)
• Honda Jazz (2015-2020)
• Volkswagen Up (2012-2023)
• Ford Kuga (2019-present)
• BMW 5 Series (2017-2024)
• Skoda Octavia Estate (2013-2020)
• Volkswagen Golf GTI (2013-2020)
• Mazda MX-5 (2015-present)

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?