2014 Best Buys: Convertibles and Roadsters Under $50,0000
Oh joy, oh bliss! The glory of the open road! The sweet country air! You don’t need to be rich to indulge in the pleasure of letting the wind tousle your hair as you drive. For less than $50,000, you can enjoy one of life’s simplest pleasures!
Before spilling the beans on our top picks, let’s make one thing clear: When we say "convertible" we’re referring to a four- or five-seater car, while the term "roadster" represents a two-seater.
It is with great reverence that we crown the 2014 Mazda MX-5 as best in class. Once known as the Miata, the MX-5 has been often imitated but rarely equalled. This little Japanese machine has redefined driving pleasure. Its engine may not be all that powerful, but this car offers a perfect driving position and tremendously lively steering, while handling like a go-kart. Plus, the 2014 Mazda MX-5 can be equipped with a hard top. It’s happiness on four wheels!
The 2014 BMW 1 Series has stolen second place. Its looks may leave something to be desired, but its performance is outstanding—especially the 135i—and its handling is insane thanks to its super-rigid chassis. For 2015, the BMW 1 Series will become the 2 Series. More on that topic next year!
Third place goes to the true American Icon (yes, with a capital “I”), the 2014 Ford Mustang. Even its base trim’s 3.7-litre V6 pumps out more than 300 horsepower! The sound it emits when accelerating is positively thrilling, so just imagine what it’s like with the 420-hp 5.0-litre V8 or the 5.8-litre mill in the 2014 Ford Shelby! (But the latter will take you slightly over the $50,000 mark!)
The category for convertibles and roadsters under $50,000 also includes the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro, 2014 Chrysler 200, 2014 MINI Cooper, 2014 Roadster, 2014 Nissan 370Z, and 2014 Volkswagen Eos.