The British public absolutely loves a convertible, and there are plenty of options if you’re in the market for an affordable one. A five grand budget won’t quite get you into modern classic sports cars like a Porsche Boxster, Jaguar XK or Honda S2000 (if you see any advertised for that price, we wouldn’t go near them as they’ll probably turn out to be money pits), but there are still plenty of very tempting choices. You could go for the ever-popular Mazda MX-5, for example, or perhaps a drop-top BMW Z4, an Audi TT, an Alfa Spider, a Toyota MR2 Roadster or a Nissan 350Z, and all will feel like proper used car bargains.
If you’re in need of a slightly more practical used convertible, though, the choice are fewer and further between, but worry not. Even if you need four seats and you’re on a tight budget, there are still plenty of good cars to choose from.
You won’t be restricted solely to older or more inefficient cars, either, because even a £5,000 budget will grant you access to a range of comparatively modern and frugal four-seat convertibles. Here are ten popular sub-£5,000 choices.
Best Cheap 4-Seater Convertible Cars
- Citroen C1 Airscape (2014-2022)
- Fiat 500C (2009-)
- Saab 9-3 Convertible (2003-2011)
- Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabriolet (2003-2009)
- Volvo C70 (2006-2013)
- MINI Convertible (2009-2015)
- Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (2011-2016)
- Audi A3 Cabriolet (2008-2013)
- BMW 3 Series Convertible (2007-2013)
Citroen C1 Airscape (2014-2022)
If you’re looking for a practical and compact runaround that offers a smidge of wind-in-the-hair fun, have a look at Citroen’s C1 Airscape. For starters, you can get one with five doors – which is ideal if you regularly need to carry passengers – and there’s seating for four. The Airscape also has a small but usable boot that’ll accommodate your weekly shop or a bit of luggage.
The Citroen isn’t a conventional full-on cabrio, mind. It features an electrically operated sliding fabric roof that extends back to a conventional rear hatch. This does have its benefits, though; it’s more secure than a conventional convertible, there’s less to go wrong and it’s easier to look after.
It’s not a quick car, but it’s ideal for nipping about and it won’t break the bank. For less than £5,000, for example, you’ll be able to find a good 2015 1.2-litre model. The three-cylinder petrol engine in these produces 81bhp, granting a 0-62mph time of 10.9 seconds, and Citroen claims an average of 65.7mpg.
Steer clear of the base-grade models and try to go for one in Feel specification or above, because these come with air-conditioning, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a space-saver spare wheel and split-folding rear seats. If you’re having trouble tracking one down, look at the Peugeot 108 Top, because it’s the same car, just with a different badge.
Citroen C1 Review
Fiat 500C (2009-)
The charming 500C has always been a popular choice for those wanting some top-down fun with a retro edge. Like the Citroen C1 Airscape and the Peugeot 108 Top, the Fiat has an electric folding fabric roof panel. But, unlike those slightly smaller cars, the 500’s roof has the rear window built into it, and folds down further for a slightly more open-top feel. Again, it’s not a full-fat convertible, but it is more affordable than many alternatives; early, high-mileage cars can be had for around £3,000 and, because the 500 hasn’t changed much over the years, they still look comparatively modern. Just don’t expect much legroom in the back.
There’s a decent engine line-up, too. Conventional options include 1.2- and 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engines, which are reliable and straightforward, or you could opt for the flexible and characterful turbocharged 0.9-litre TwinAir, which has just two cylinders. You might not like the way it performs or sounds, though, and it can be harder to look after. There’s even a diesel option if you need impressive mpg figures.
Fiat 500 Review
Saab 9-3 Convertible (2003-2011)
A Saab might not strike you as the go-to option for a roof-down four-seater, but the 9-3 Convertible has an awful lot to offer, especially if you have a small budget. You can buy a tidy pre-2010 example for less than £4,000 which – if it’s been properly maintained – can be a better bet than some of the newer and more complex alternatives here.
The 9-3 is a sharp-looking car, too, especially the later models, while the 1.8- and 2.0-litre turbo petrol engines serve up an appealing blend of durability, frugality, and power. There are diesel and V6 models, too, although we’d steer clear of the latter due to their weight, complexity, and higher running costs.
As is often the case with affordable large cabriolets, the Saab isn’t particularly rewarding to drive. The interior design and build quality isn’t as evocative as some alternatives, either, which can detract from the appeal of what is otherwise a smart and serviceable car. If neither of those issues dissuades you, though, the 9-3 is well worth considering.
Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabriolet (2003-2009)
If you want a bit more prestige and class, you could consider a convertible with the three-pointed star of German firm Mercedes on the bonnet. The teeny SLK is out because it’s a little lacking in the seat department, but an older CLK will fit the bill. It’ll still look and feel the part if it’s in a good specification and in the right condition, although, predictably, it’ll cost more to run than some of the newer alternatives here.
Every CLK Cabriolet comes with a folding electric cloth roof and, inside, you’ll find four seats. There’s a decent amount of room in the back, too, so even adults shouldn’t feel overly cramped. The interior is smart, albeit a little dated, and it’s quiet and comfortable.
The Mercedes is pitched at those seeking a relaxing and refined driving experience, so look elsewhere if sharp handling is your thing. Unless, that is, you go for a V8, which is far more evocative, at least in a straight line, and the stout V6 engines aren’t bad, either. Always buy a car that’s in as good a condition as you can find, though, even if it means settling for a smaller engine. That way, problems should be few, and you’ll enjoy it more.
Volvo C70 (2006-2013)
Those who transport multiple passengers on a regular basis would do well to consider the Volvo C70. It’s not as brash or as stylish as some alternatives, but many will appreciate its reserved looks. It also has a folding metal hardtop, which makes it more refined and secure, and it looks more like a regular coupe with the roof up. Inside, you’ll find a smart and supremely comfortable interior, and the rear seats can accommodate two adults without much fuss, so the C70 is far more practical than smaller alternatives.
There’s plenty of kit, too. An early entry-level Sport model, for example, includes climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, a six-speaker stereo system, and front fog lights. SE models add leather trim and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, along with other creature comforts, while the SE Lux packs premium features such as the Dynaudio sound system and electric folding mirrors.
The only real downer is that the Volvo, while compliant and capable, is a bit dull to drive. The engines are powerful enough, and it rides well, but it’s not what you’d call engaging. It’s a great choice if you just want a cosseting cruiser, though.
MINI Convertible (2009-2015)
If you’re looking to marry open-air motoring with a little charm and fun, then a MINI is great, because it has far more character and styling flair than comparatively staid alternatives from Volkswagen and Audi.
The second-generation R57 MINI Convertible is also great fun to drive, especially if you go for the more powerful Cooper S variant. Even the basic petrol model has lots of grip and responsive steering, though, so don’t overlook a tidy example of a lesser-specification model unless you really need more power, not least because the simpler versions are easier to look after and more reliable.
One predictable downside to the diminutive MINI is that there’s not much room inside, so carrying adults in the back seats is off the cards. However, there is plenty of choice in the MINI line-up, and there are even frugal diesels for maximum economy. If you fancy something similarly stylish, but need a bit more space, you could instead opt for a DS 3 Cabriolet, which has three rear seats.
MINI Review
Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (2011-2016)
An older Volkswagen Golf might seem an unimaginative option but, for many, it’s an ideal drop-top. It’s effortless to live with, easy to drive, simple to maintain.
The interior isn’t that spacious, particularly in the back, but it’s otherwise a practical small convertible. Running costs should be more than tolerable, too, especially if you go for one of the frugal TSI petrol engines. The 1.2-litre TSI, for example, is claimed to average up to 54mpg.
There are also several efficient TDI diesels to keep running costs to a minimum. However, you need to balance any potential savings with higher purchase prices and the potentially higher repair costs typically associated with diesel engines.
In any instance, though, the Golf Cabriolet is a comfortable, quiet and relaxing convertible. If its lack of character dents its appeal, you could instead go for a Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet. Alternatively, if you need a folding metal roof for security or refinement reasons, then take a look at the Volkswagen Eos.
Volkswagen Golf Review
Audi A3 Cabriolet (2008-2013)
If you’re looking for something with upmarket appeal, then the compact Audi A3 Cabriolet could be a great choice. It’s not as sleek as its big brother, the Audi A5 Cabriolet, but it offers four seats, and it’s decent to drive, comfortable, well-built, and a whole lot cheaper than an A5.
There’s a good choice of engines, including frugal 1.6- and 2.0-litre diesels, and peppy 1.2- and 2.0-litre TFSI turbocharged petrols. Dual-clutch automatic transmissions are also available in many variants, as well as conventional manual gearboxes. The more powerful versions are quick, too; the 2.0-litre TFSI will hit 60mph in seven seconds.
These are well-supported cars, too, because many components are shared with other Volkswagen, Skoda, and Seat models, and there are lots of specialists that can help to maintain them. It’s worth noting that the A3 has a relatively small boot and, in basic trim levels, it can feel a little basic. Look for one in a decent spec, with a few toys, if you can.
Audi A3 Review
BMW 3 Series Convertible (2007-2013)
BMW has a wide array of desirable convertibles in its new and used line-up, and if you’re working to a budget of £5,000, the E93-generation 3 Series Convertible should be at the top of your list.
It’s comparatively modern, affordable, and not overly complicated – unlike, say, an eight-cylinder convertible 6 Series – and it’s and great to drive, courtesy of its trademark rear-wheel drive handling. What also plays in the BMW’s favour, like some others here, is that it has a folding metal roof. This makes it more secure and, unlike soft-top alternatives, you won’t have any problems with degrading fabric panels. Just remember to test the action of the roof and make sure that it folds, stows, and rises properly.
We’d recommend sticking with the less complex petrol models, instead of the diesels, and don’t worry too much if you’re looking at a high-mileage car. Provided it has been maintained properly, it should last well – and keep an eye out for M-Sport models with sharper looks and handling. If the 3 Series is too big, you could investigate the compact and compelling 1 Series Convertible as an alternative.
BMW 3 Series Review