Small convertibles, choosing

[ToolmanJohn]

Looking at below $30 options. Don't want a motorcycle, but looking for a fun car (4Runner is almost paid ).

Leaning toward the new Mazda MX-5 (Miata). Simply because of the proven record of reliability and owner ratings.

But I have been checking out the new Pontiac Solstice as well. I like it's styling , except for the front end badge, that would have to go.

Any other suggestions to look at, either from reading or experiences?

 

[Pirate VI]

mini cooper convertable, if i could have a small car, that is what i would want. almost like a street legal gokart

 

[sharp4runr]

If I were in the market, I'd be leaning towards the Miata or S2000. No other car in the price range you mentioned jump at me. I wouldn't buy the Solstice but I wouldn't muy a US made vehicle so take it for what it is worth. Also if I'd get a little car like that, I'd prefer it to be RWD.

If you had 10K to spend, I'd say Lotus Elise but I'm biased. I'm saving for one as we speak...

 

[Mark86]

I like the Nissan 350Z. It may be a bit over your budget because they start at $29k. I don't know how many options you like to put in a vehicle.

 

[CuzzinOlaf]

I have a Miata and love it...

I had it for sale till I drove it to work one week.... I still have it.

 

[Thai]

New Miata or S2000. Miata is new (1st year)...so, it's reliability is not set in stone. However, traditionally, Miatas are extremely reliable.

S2000 is proven and is going to be a classic soon (like NSX). But, it's harder to live with it on a daily basis...rough ride, no low-end torque, very little storage space, and noisy.

Miata is a better DD. It comes standard with side airbags that protect BOTH thorax and head. This is not available on any convertible in it's class.

Tough choice between the two....

 

[toybox]

I personally like the Miata but the Solstice also comes in a Saturn version (I forget what they call it)

 

[Mafster]

S2000 all the way-from an owner who shopped and shopped for what you are looking for. You can pick up an '06 with VSC ('05s didn't have it + the '06s have headrest speakers) for <$30K. I can't say enough positive things about them. Check out www.s2ki.com

 

[greasefingers]

You get a lot for the money with the Miata, but I love the looks of the S2000. The Honda will run $ 10 k more and it will be over $ 30 k.

 

[slyangel9]

I had a 2000 brand new Miata. Loved it when it worked. Turned out to be a lemon. Mazda had to buy back the car w/6k miles.

If you like to do your oil changes, you will hate the miata. To get to the oil filter, you have to go thru passenger wheelwell.

Lastly, you will want a rollbar installed. There have been fatalities in rollovers. I hope they made the windsheid frame stronger because the old ones simply folded.

 

[Bluto]

Just for crusing the street? Is used an option? BMW CPO Z4. Nice ride. Great warranty. Let someone else eat the depreciation.

 

[Thai]

After thinking it over, i would go for S2000, esp. if you're just using it to go short distances.

 

[ToolmanJohn]

Thanks all

I will have to check pricing on the S2000. Also, I know the Saturn SKY is the clone sibling of the Pontiac Solstice. The ECO-Tech engine is supposed to be a reliable well built motor, but I don't know about the rest of the car.

Also, the new MX-5 doesn't have a reliability track record yet, but like the Toyota 4Runner, hopefully they carried over the reliability during the re-design.

I shudder to think what a BMW Z-anything would cost to own, even if driven less then 5000 mile/year. I would go for a 3 series convertible, but even used several years, they are ridiculous expensive $$$!!!

Mini-Cooper, just too darn mini. Cute car, but no way would I want to be in traffic in one.