So far, the UK’s summer has been a bit of a disappointment. However, used car buyers can be prepared for any glimmer of sunshine with one of the many second-hand convertibles on the market for under £5,000.
Mazda MX-5:
Perhaps the most obvious choice for a cheap used convertible, and for a very good reason, is the Mazda MX-5. Part of the Japanese brand’s range since 1989, this small convertible helped to make lightweight sportscars popular again, meaning there are plenty to choose from on the used market.
With a £5,000 budget, used car buyers are mostly going to find third-generation examples, made between 2005 and 2015. Many of these feature a powerful 2.0-litre petrol engine, which can accelerate from 0-62mph in a very reasonable 8.3 seconds whilst also averaging 36.7mpg.
Nevertheless, whilst the mechanicals found in a Mazda MX-5 are generally reliable, buyers should examine the bodywork carefully for any signs of rust or bodywork repairs that could be hiding previous accidents and issues.
Audi TT:
One of the closest rivals to the Mazda would have to be the Audi TT, with a £5,000 budget giving drivers a plentiful selection of second-generation examples from 2006 to 2014.
Using the same platform as models including the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3, this era of the TT was built on very solid mechanicals. New buyers could also choose from a very wide range of engines, although expect to see the 1.8 and 2.0 TFSI on most used examples today.
Whilst the Audi TT looks very attractive as a two-seater convertible, motorists who are more mindful of the lengthy cold spells in the UK can also choose a 2+2 coupe version that has a hardtop and slightly more room inside.
BMW 3-Series E93:
Drivers looking for an open-top model that the whole family can enjoy should also consider a BMW 3-Series Cabriolet. Like the rest of the 3-Series range, these models are dedicated five-seaters, albeit with only two doors.
The majority of BMW 3-Series Cabriolets found on the used market for around £5,000 are E93 examples, produced from 2005 to 2013. Despite their age, this era of the famous BMW still looks incredibly attractive and offers a very practical boot.
Whilst some owners have claimed automatic gearboxes are sluggish compared to modern alternatives, the durable 2.0-litre diesel model with a manual gearbox is happy accelerating from 0-62mph in just eight seconds and will get up to 53.3mpg with careful driving.
Fiat 500C:
Whilst £5,000 would not even buy half a new car anymore, motorists insist that their used convertible was made fairly recently should consider a Fiat 500C, the convertible version of the popular supermini.
Admittedly, the 500C hardly has the sleek appearance of some of the other cars on this list, but the retro charm that was inspired by the 1957 Fiat Nuova 500 is still very appealing and has a rear seat with just enough space for small children.
Models fitted with the 1.4 petrol engine feel well-suited to all kinds of driving and gives fairly good fuel economy, however real thrill-seekers will undoubtedly prefer the 875cc TwinAir powertrain. Despite being tiny, the TwinAir allows the 500C to reach 62mph in 11 seconds and average an impressive 70mpg.
MGB:
Finally, motorists who do not mind a little bit of tinkering during their weekends could always consider buying a classic MGB. Built from 1962 to 1981, the MGB is one of the most popular classic models in the UK, with a very large owners club and plenty of remaining spare parts.
Whilst early 1960s ‘pull-handle’ examples and the ultra-powerful MGB V8 are off limits, a £5,000 budget is enough for a fully-functional later example, restyled for the 1970s with black plastic bumpers and Rostyle wheels.
Buyers should not expect blistering performance, however the 1.8-litre petrol engine fitted to the majority of models will happily accelerate from 0-60mph in 12.5 seconds and is easy to work on.