Top Ten Summer Convertibles Under $10k

What's in this article?

What Makes Owning a Convertible Worth It?
What’s Behind the Mazda MX-5 Miata’s Long Production Run?
What Can I Expect When I Get Behind the Wheel of a 2007 BMW Z4?
What Does a 2009 Infiniti G37 S Have in Store?
Should the 2008 Saab 9-3 Remain On Your Radar?
Can I Score a 2011 Mustang for Under $10k?
How Does the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Compare With the Base 2011 Mustang?
Why Is the 2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster Such a Popular Used Car?
Are Mercedes-Benz SL Class Models Available for Less Than $10k?
What’s an Affordable Volvo Convertible With Plenty of Practicality?
What’s a Quality Small Convertible I Can Buy For Under $10k?
What’s Your Favorite Vehicle Within Our List?

Whether you’re completing routine errands, commuting, or going for a casual drive—convertibles have the ability to add a brand-new layer of excitement to your summer drives.

Drivers often think of high expenses when the idea of owning a convertible comes to mind. We’re here to give you a glass half full perspective with a list of ten summer-ready convertibles that are regularly available for under $10k.

Let’s quickly highlight some of the specific benefits you’ll experience through convertible ownership before we dive into our list of recommendations.

What Makes Owning a Convertible Worth It?

Sporty style and open-air thrills consistently draw car buyers toward convertibles. Dropping a convertible’s roof gives drivers additional headroom and higher levels of visibility. This increase in visibility removes layers of stress from parking and everyday driving maneuvers. Convertibles offer drivers the perfect balance between form and function.

Keep on reading to learn about fun summer convertibles you can buy for under $10k.

What’s Behind the Mazda MX-5 Miata’s Long Production Run?

The Mazda MX-5’s Miata’s affordability, reliability, and fun factor are the driving forces behind its 32-year production.

Forget $10k. You can find first-generation Mazda Miata’s in solid shape for under $3k on sites like Autotrader. There’s a decent chance that you might find a Miata with a mileage count that clocks in under the mileage limit of a modern vehicle’s manufacturer warranty. Compare a used Mazda Miata with a new fully loaded Miata, and it won’t be hard to see why these vehicles become so affordable as the years go by. You can purchase a brand-new top-of-the-line Mazda Miata for well under the $40k mark. Tack on some years, and you’ll be driving a convertible for less than $10k in no time.

Drivers buying a used Mazda Miata won’t have to worry about having to deal with expensive post-purchase maintenance. You’ll find plenty of quality Mazda Miata aftermarket and performance parts that exist at a fair price.

Used Miata’s under $10k offer a raw convertible driving experience. Older roadster models with manual transmissions and rear-wheel drive contain a nearly perfect 50/50 weight distribution that sets the stage for quality handling and tight cornering.

What Can I Expect When I Get Behind the Wheel of a 2007 BMW Z4?

Drivers may see that the 2007 BMW Z4 is available for under $10,000 and wonder if this convertible is worth their time. BMW integrated a series of impressive developments into the Z4 in 2006 to help this convertible stick out from the crowd. More potent engines, 6-speed manual, and automatic transmission options are a few upgrades that helped the 2007 Z4 garner higher levels of positive attention. Design alterations pervaded the 2007 Z4’s interior and exterior while standard 17-inch tires and a fine-tuned Dynamic Stability Control System promised drivers more impressive performance.

2007 BMW Z4’s feature a special 6-cylinder engine version known as the N52. This configuration translated to higher levels of horsepower and torque in the 2007 Z4’s two engine options, with specs peaking at 255 horsepower @ 6600 rpm and 220 lb-ft. of torque @ 2750 rpm.

Four sporty interior options provide the 2007 Z4 with plenty of character. The 2007 Z4’s highest quality interior is its New England extended leather option that’s available within 3.0is models. You’ll find elegant leather additions within the 2007 Z4 3.0is model’s doors, windshield frame, and sun visors when the vehicle is equipped with BMW’s classy New England extended upgrade.

Consider a 2007 BMW Z4 when you’re in the market for a versatile convertible that doesn’t break the bank.

What Does a 2009 Infiniti G37 S Have in Store?

2009 Infiniti G37 S models have more to offer than their price tags that often register under $10k. A 3.7-liter V6 engine supplies 2009 G37 S models with an enjoyable sound and an impressive amount of power. This convertible’s interior balances a lively and minimalist design, while standard technology features like a Bose Open Air Sound System allow you to maintain quality audio levels when you put your hardtop down.

There’s plenty of practicality within the 2009 G37 S. A seven-speed automatic transmission helps this Infiniti achieve higher fuel economy ratings in case you’re looking for a new daily driver that costs less than $10k. You’ll find certain 2009 G37 S models for sale with available paddle shifters that foster seamless manual shifting and higher levels of fun behind the wheel.

You’ll have plenty of control when pushing this convertible to its 328-horsepower limit. The 2009 G37 S contains a rear-wheel-drive configuration that contains more refined handling than a front-wheel-drive setup would offer.

This Infiniti is an example of a design that knows how to excel with its top down. 2009 S 37 S models feature a climate control system that automatically adjusts its fan speed to accommodate the vehicle’s speed during open-air driving.

Explore one of the 2009 Infiniti G 37 S convertible trims to discover a luxurious interior and balanced ride that costs less than $10k.

Should the 2008 Saab 9-3 Remain On Your Radar?

Drivers looking for a soft top that they can drive 365 days a year can benefit from checking out Saab’s 2008 9-3 model. This convertible offers practicality without sacrificing style.

The 2008 Saab 9-3 thrives through its structural integrity and class-leading build quality positions. A 2.6-liter V6 turbocharged engine leads the 2008 Saab 9-3 with 255 horsepower, while exceptional handling characteristics help drivers cruise around with ease.

You won’t have to endure any rough rides when behind the wheel of a 2008 Saab 9-3. This convertible’s rigid body acts as an excellent foundation for the vehicle’s suspension systems. These design components create little to no instances of driving vibration.

Saab continues to show off its proclivity toward safety with the 2008 9-3. This vehicle scored a maximum five-star crash safety rating from EuroNCAP.

Sweeping headlights flank the 2008 9-3’s front grille to create a refined front-end aesthetic while clean lines carry across the rest of the car’s exterior.

Whatever you’re looking for in a convertible under $10, the chances are that the 2008 Saab 9-3 has what you’re after.

Can I Score a 2011 Mustang for Under $10k?

You’ll have no problem finding a 2011 Mustang for less than $10k. We’re going to highlight what you’ll find within Ford’s base 2011 Mustang, so you know what you’re in for at the very least.

Mustang fans will be thrilled to hear that the 2011 base model Mustang generates an impressive 305 horsepower. 305 horsepower is only ten fewer than the 2010 Mustang GT. You’ll be able to explore this power with plenty of fuel efficiency. The 2011 Mustang V6 offers up to 31 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg during city driving.

Drivers find that the 2011 base Mustang goes from 0-60 mph in about 5.4 seconds when you use the car’s standard six-speed manual transmission. This spec continues to show how the base 2011 Mustang easily beats out the previous year’s base model (and even the 2010 GT!).

Entry-level 2011 Mustang’s feel nimble and balanced from a driver’s perspective. The vehicle’s electric power steering provides plenty of feedback and cornering abilities that adapt to the road’s twists and turns.

You can’t go wrong with the 2011 Mustang when looking for an exceptional convertible that costs less than $10k.

How Does the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Compare With the Base 2011 Mustang?

The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro’s V6 boasts 312 horsepower that beats the 2011 Mustang by eight horses. It’s essential to have an awareness that the 2011 Camaro is a hefty vehicle. This higher weight slightly detracts from the vehicle’s responsiveness. The positive news is that you won't have to sacrifice too much handling when behind the wheel of a 2011 Camaro.

Similar to the 2011 Mustang, the 2011 Camaro offers a fuel-efficient base model that can provide up to 29 mpg on the highway. Straight-line performance and cornering grip are two performance elements that help the 2011 Camaro stand out amongst its competitors.

Why Is the 2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster Such a Popular Used Car?

2008 Nissan 350Z’s offer drivers affordable style and impressive levels of functionality. This convertible provides plenty of trunk space and a top that goes up and down with ease. Step inside of a 2008 Nissan 350Z, and you’ll find cushy armrests, a comfortable steering wheel, and seats you can easily settle into. 306 horsepower gives the 2008 Nissan 350Z a decent level of zip while a six-speed manual fosters silky-smooth shifts.

This is just the start of what the 2008 350Z has to offer.

Are you looking for an affordable convertible with solid cornering abilities? The 2008 Nissan 350Z contains a finely tuned chassis that helps drivers navigate tight corners without any second-guessing.

The 2008 Nissan 350Z provides one of the most comfortable top-down driving experiences for a car under $10k. This vehicle’s driver and passenger will sit deep into the vehicle’s body while a plastic panel between the headrests does an excellent job protecting against heavy winds.

Are Mercedes-Benz SL Class Models Available for Less Than $10k?

Check out 2002-2008 Mercedes-Benz R230 generation SL-Class models when you’re seeking a stylish convertible that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. You’ll find plenty of luxury within this vehicle’s interior and equally high levels of sporty exterior design. These Mercedes-Benz models contain a head-turning retractable hardtop design along with a comfortable seat and suspension design that motivates you to take the long way home. Make a positive first impression when you roll up to the scene with one of these SL Class model’s quad headlight designs.

This Mercedes-Benz made a splash at the start of its release with 306 horsepower in its base model and a strong maximum horsepower level of 476 within its supercharged SL 55 AMG model.

Make a statement of your own by getting behind the wheel of one of these beautiful Mercedes-Benz SL models.

What’s an Affordable Volvo Convertible With Plenty of Practicality?

2011 Volvo C70 T5’s offer drivers a relaxed cruiser aesthetic that’s bolstered by a convenient hardtop design. Drivers often compare this vehicle to the Volkswagen Eos as both cars offer plenty of practicality that veers away from traditional sport convertible design. Drivers will enjoy the 2011 Volvo C70 T5’s interior an airy feel that’s perfect for droptop journeys. Open up this Volvo’s trunk, and you’ll have enough cargo room to prepare for a nice weekend getaway.

A turbocharged inline-five-cylinder engine gives the 2011 Volvo C70 T5 227-horsepower that’s slightly inconsistent in its delivery. A certain percentage have drivers have made the complaint that this Volvo’s power lacks a linear progression. We’re willing to look past this detail to appreciate the mature exterior and fairly luxurious cabin that this vehicle offers for less than $10k.

What’s a Quality Small Convertible I Can Buy For Under $10k?

2011 led to the Mini Cooper receiving worthy upgrades that make this car worth considering when you’re looking to spend under $10k on a small convertible. This vehicle’s highlights include a slightly larger power output, added sound insulation, and modified steering that lowers torque steer during intense acceleration.

You’ll experience some savings at the pump with a 2011 Mini Cooper’s 37 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city. Drivers can add some extra kick to their 2011 Mini Cooper by opting for Cooper S turbocharged model that produces 181 horsepower and 177 lb-ft. of torque. You can still keep your purchase under $10,000 when moving up to the 2011 Mini Cooper S.

Expect to receive quick responses and optimized handling when behind the wheel of a 2011 Mini Cooper. We recommend you go with the 2011 Mini Cooper’s six-speed manual transmission if smooth shifting is on your convertible under $10k checklist.