Nothing quite beats the cool factor of a convertible—except a convertible that doesn’t break the bank. There are plenty of convertible cars under $50k out there, and our favorite is the Mazda Miata MX-5.
Picture cruising down the street with the top down, music up, wind in your hair…and tons of money left in your pocket. With our list of the best convertible cars under $50k, that’s exactly what you’ll get.
You don’t have to take out a gigantic car loan
to get your dream convertible, and since these cars are cheaper than their luxury counterparts, they’ll also be cheaper to insure. Check out the pros and cons of our favorite convertibles under $50k below, and when you decide on yours, sign up for Jerry
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10. BMW 2 Series Convertible—from $41,850
The BMW 2 Series Convertible
is an entry-level BMW that lands an 8/10 from Car and Driver. In this zippy two-door, you’ll enjoy quick acceleration and lots of horsepower at an entry-level price. Even with all that power, you get 23 city/33 highway miles per gallon, which isn’t bad for a turbocharged 6-cylinder. 248 horsepower with decent gas mileage
Discontinued in 2021—no newer models available
9. Audi A3 Cabriolet—from $39,890
The Audi A3 Cabriolet
is a subcompact convertible that looks a lot more expensive than it is. Starting under $40,000, it’s in the middle price range of convertible cars under $50k. This refined car comes with many options, with engine power ranging from 184 to 220 HP and still maintaining 34 mpg on the highway.
Luxury looks without a luxury price tag
Convertible was discontinued in 2019; newer models not available
8. Jeep Wrangler—from $26,995
The Jeep Wrangler
is the top-down option for people who take life off-road. Known for being extremely reliable, the Wrangler will hold up to inclement weather and rough road conditions. Modern features meet retro styling with this rugged soft-top Jeep. Great for offroading and outdoor enthusiasts
One of the only options in its class to offer a convertible style
22 city/29 highway gas mileage isn’t excellent
7. BMW Z4 Convertible—from $49,900
The second BMW to hit our list is the Z4, which earns a 9/10 from Car and Driver
. This convertible car starts at just under $50k, so if you want to add premium trim and upgrades, it’ll go over that budget. The base model Z4 offers excellent handling and a turbocharged 4-cylinder with 255 horsepower in a sleek, soft-top convertible body.
Aggressive, sporty body style
Upscale, comfortable interior
More affordable than its main competitor, the Porsche Boxster
Available only as an automatic
6. Volkswagen Beetle Convertible—from $26,000
No list of best convertibles under $50k would be complete without the classic Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
. Charming and reliable, the convertible slug bug is a fun and nostalgic way to express yourself. The convertible was discontinued in 2019, but you may want to opt for an older model anyway—since any model 2006 or older gets an astounding 37 city and 44 highway mpg.
Older models get excellent gas mileage
Discontinued in 2019—no new models available
5. Chevrolet Camaro 1SS Convertible—from $43,995
The Chevrolet Camaro
has been a characteristic cool pony car since the 1960s, and the new Camaro 1SS convertible is not an exception. Offering Chevy’s classic small-block V-8 engine and 455 HP, this convertible under $50k goes 0-60 in 3.5 seconds. That power combined with a futuristic twist on the classic styling makes this Camaro a winner.
Hard to see out of compared to direct competitors
4. Mini Cooper Convertible—from $28,400
For a tiny convertible with a huge personality, consider getting a Mini Cooper
. These fun, quirky cars are aimed at free spirits with style, but they’re not all about looks. The new Mini has been reimagined with a full technology suite including driver assistance, ambient lighting, and a stylish touchscreen interface. If the standard option’s 134 HP doesn’t do it for you, opt for the JCW trim with 228 HP, starting at $38,900.
Highly customizable with well-thought styling
Electrically-powered soft top
Unique design may not be for everyone
3. Ford Mustang GT Premium Convertible—from $47,970
The original pony car comes galloping into 3rd place for best convertibles under $50k with its super engaging drivability, a multitude of performance and appearance upgrades, and an ultra-powerful 5L V-8 engine.
At 460 HP, the Ford Mustang GT
with Premium trim has the highest max horsepower of any vehicle on this list. While the exterior manages to capture both sleek and nostalgic elements, inside you’ll find an abundance of high-tech features—including more driver-assistance technology than any competing pony car.
Reliable, but also fast and powerful
High-tech and highly customizable
2. Fiat 124 Spider—from $26,840
The modern Fiat 124 Spider
is a revival of the 1960s Fiat by the same name, and its styling says just that. It has a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that doesn’t pack the same power as a Mustang or a Camaro, but it’s still incredibly fun to drive. The Spider 124 earns the #2 spot for best convertibles under $50k because of its luxurious interior, large cargo space, and ultra-smooth and quiet ride. This is a roadster made for sunny top-down drives, and its affordability puts it above most others.
Discontinued after 2020—newer models not available
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata—from $27,300
Our favorite convertible under $50k is the Mazda MX-5 Miata
. This sporty convertible delivers on affordability while offering a lively driving experience, responsive handling, and exotic looks. The Miata doesn’t disappoint when it comes to options either, with appearance and performance packages ranging from essential to opulent. Whether you’re a casual driver or a car enthusiast, the MX-5 Miata has something for you.
Affordable top-down car with luxury looks
Numerous options for performance and appearance
Finely tuned controls for expert handling
Passenger space is a bit tighter than direct competitors
Finding affordable car insurance for a convertible
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