Five used convertibles perfect for the upcoming summer

With summer on the horizon, convertible weather is fast approaching. Many have dreamed of owning a stylish convertible, with the ability to drop the roof in seconds and enjoy sun-filled, scenic drives. However, convertibles often come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, AutoTrader’s used car sales data reveals a selection of alluring roadsters that offer style and affordability, making them perfect for the upcoming season.

The most popular convertible is the Mercedes-Benz SLK. Introduced in 1997, the SLK (Sporty, Light, and Compact) has enjoyed three generations, with the last model becoming the SLC towards the end of its life.

The SLK introduced numerous innovations, including a folding hard top that provides owners the best of both worlds. Multiple engine options are available, ranging from four- and six-cylinders to powerful AMG V8s. The average selling price is R256 292 for used models with a registration age and mileage of 16 years and 112 045km. Mercedes no longer makes an SLK, but the cheapest new convertible from the brand is the R1 527 271 CLE 200, making a used SLK look like a bargain.

Next up is the BMW Z4. The roadster is the SLK’s arch-rival and provides sharper driving thrills than its comfort-focused competitor. A used Z4 sells for R457 343 on average, with a lower registration age of 11 years and mileage of 76 972km. BMW still makes the Z4, which carries a starting price of R993 899 in sDrive20i guise. While the first generation Z4 was a soft-top (there was also a hard-top coupé), the second generation features a folding hard-top like the SLK. Like the Mercedes, customers can choose from a variety of engines, from perky four-cylinders to sonorous-sounding six-cylinders.

The third most popular model also hails from Munich. The BMW 4 Series is now in its second generation and effectively takes over from the 3 Series convertible. With an average price of R552 269 on the used car market, it’s one of the most expensive cars on the list but with the lowest average mileage (73 437km) and registration age (seven years old). Again, several engines are available, including the high-performance inline-six found in the M4. The turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six develops 317kW and 550Nm.

Those looking for a more exotic convertible will lean towards the Porsche Boxster and its mid-engined configuration. As you’d expect from a Porsche product, these tend to sell at higher prices, with an average price tag of R591 419 on the used car market. While the baby Porsche has the highest used car price here, it’s a bargain compared to the new Boxster’s R1 801 000 starting price.

For those more focused on practicality and fun rather than performance and prestige, the Fiat 500C is the ideal choice. The compact dimensions make it ideal for city driving, while economical engines mean they are cheap to fuel and run. What it lacks in prestige it makes up for in value, with an average selling price of R195 602 an average mileage of 65 678km, and an average registration age of seven years.

Top 5 most sold used Convertibles

*Source: AutoTrader Used Car Sales Data, 1 January – 31 July 2024

Source: haveyoursayza