You’ve seen them on the freeways, highways, and city streets cruising with the top-down. We all equate them to fun, to freedom and epic images of wind flowing through your hair. It’s undeniable – convertibles are one of the coolest body styles around, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t attainable. We’ve compiled a list of some of the coolest convertibles that you can find TODAY for under $15,000! With a variety of styles and killer prices, it’s time to find your next roofless adventure.
BMW Z4 (2003-2012)
2011 BMW Z4 – carsforsale.com | Shop BMW Z4 on Carsforsale.com
A used BMW Z4 is sure to make you smile for under $15,000. Powered by a 6-cylinder engine, the Z4 is a true sports car. Its firm suspension, quick acceleration, and confident handling will be thoroughly enjoyed by driving enthusiasts. While the unique design may not resonate with all convertible buyers, this car is sure to stand out on the road.
Ford Mustang (1965-2016)
2016 Ford Mustang – carsforsale.com | Shop Ford Mustang on Carsforsale.com
The legendary Ford Mustang has always been considered one of the coolest cars in history. As a convertible, it is available as both one of the newest and oldest used cars on our list. If you want a slick ride at a low price, this is a very cool convertible for the price. It isn’t the most powerful or best handling car here, but it’s very affordable and can make for a fun project car.
Honda S2000 (2000-2004)
2001 Honda S2000 – carsforsale.com | Shop Honda S2000 on Carsforsale.com
The Honda S2000 may be older now, but this car was ahead of its time. This sporty roadster has a lot of character. On the outside, this car still looks great after all these years and still holds up with today’s modern designs. Under the hood is its iconic VTEC 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, creating a truly dramatic driving experience. If you’re looking for an affordable convertible that is a crowd favorite and purely fun to drive, look no further.
Mazda Miata (1990-2015)
2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata – carsforsale.com | Shop Mazda MX-5 Miata on Carsforsale.com
The Miata has always thrived as one of the cheapest convertibles on the market that still provides a fun driving experience, and that carries over to the used market. The Mazda Miata is a tiny roadster with quick and agile driving character. It won’t clock in with the fastest 0-60 time on the market when it’s stock, but it’s hard to beat this car on windy roads. Plus, who keeps their Miata stock anymore?
Pontiac Solstice (2006-2009)
2008 Pontiac Solstice – carsforsale.com | Shop Pontiac Solstice on Carsforsale.com
The Pontiac Solstice was a short-lived convertible created just in time to usher in the end of Pontiac. The love it or hate it design features an over-exaggerated Pontiac kidney grille to soft, big headlamps and “bubbly” body curvatures. This car was like nothing Pontiac ever released. The Solstice begs you to drive fast, as it handles tight corners and aggressive driving with ease, but not everyone is going look at you with envy when you come down the road.
Mercedes-Benz SLK (1998-2013)
2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK – carsforsale.com | Shop Mercedes-Benz SLK on Carsforsale.com
Did you know you could get a Mercedes for under $15,000? It’s true, and better yet a convertible one at that. The Mercedes-Benz SLK is one of the most luxurious cars you can get at this price point. This 2-door, 2-seat hardtop convertible is very well-equipped and sure to make everyone jealous. If you want to look the part of a high roller without needing the major bank to back it up, finding a nice used SLK can do the trick.
Jaguar XJ-S (1984-1994)
1990 Jaguar XJ-S – carsforsale.com | Shop Jaguar XJ-S on Carsforsale.com
All these other convertibles are cool, but the original Jaguar XJ-S just hits a little different. It may come with a bit of extra maintenance, but it is truly one of the best examples of British automotive brilliance. The elongated body and sophisticated design are real attention grabbers. It is also not often seen driving around here in the states, so everyone takes notice. Still not sold? I forgot to mention that it has a V12 engine under the hood at this price, making it one of the cheapest V12 vehicles in the world. That should help garner some interest.
Nissan 350Z (2003-2009)
2008 Nissan 350Z – carsforsale.com | Shop Nissan 350Z on Carsforsale.com
The Nissan 350Z convertible will probably appeal to a younger audience. I know it was a favorite of mine back in high school. Powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that produces over 300 hp, the 350Z is all about driving fun. The rev-happy engine and sporty looks work together to create an incredible convertible driving experience. It also makes for a highly modifiable project car which is a major plus for aspiring gearheads.
Porsche Boxster (1997-2008)
2003 Porsche Boxster – carsforsale.com | Shop Porsche Boxster on Carsforsale.com
If you’re looking for convertibles under $15,000, you probably didn’t put a Porsche on your radar. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to see that you can find a used Porsche Boxster right in your price range. While it’s no 911, the Boxster has more than enough power for most drivers. Because Porsche design evolves slowly, this car looks newer than it is. It still possesses that iconic Porsche design we’ve come to know and love. And doesn’t the sentence “I own a Porsche” just roll off the tongue so nicely?
Chevrolet Corvette (1969-2007)
2004 Chevrolet Corvette – carsforsale.com | Shop Chevrolet Corvette on Carsforsale.com
Yes, you can get a Corvette for under $15,000 and a convertible one at that. Will it be collector perfect? No. Will everyone still take notice of you cruising by? For sure. The Corvette is a timeless sports car, meaning whichever generation you choose, it’s already a classic. If you’re willing to care for and maintain an older ride, the Corvette is one of the coolest convertibles available at this price point. The V8 paired with RWD is awesome for burnouts too … If that’s something that interests you.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in July 2016 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
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You put in the Nissan 350z but not the Infiniti G37? Whatever. My 2009 with 52000 miles was valued at 13k. Complimented everytime I drive it.
Thanks for sharing, Kevin!