As we enjoy another spell of hot, dry weather, it seems strange that sales of convertible cars are at an all-time low. Back in 2005, more than 109,000 new convertibles were sold in Britain. Fast forward 20 years and that figure has plummeted to just 11,484.
Much of that decline can be explained by one simple fact: there just aren’t many convertibles to choose from anymore.
The relentless rise of SUVs has squeezed the market for traditional saloons, hatchbacks and, inevitably, open-top cars. While the ever-popular Mazda MX-5 remains a favourite amongst enthusiasts, prices now start at more than £28,000. It’s hardly the affordable sports car that MG Midgets, Austin-Healey Sprites and Triumph Spitfires were for young drivers during the 1960s and 70s.
The same story can be seen elsewhere. A new MINI Convertible is similarly expensive, while even a Fiat 500 Convertible now costs more than £20,000. Fancy buying British? Your choices are largely limited to Caterham or Morgan. Both build fantastic cars, but neither could be described as budget-friendly.
Elsewhere, the options continue to shrink. Volkswagen no longer offers a Golf Convertible, Audi has left the market altogether, Mercedes-Benz convertibles command premium prices, and if you’re looking at Ford, your only real option is a Mustang.
The Classic Alternative
If you still dream of wind-in-your-hair motoring, the best value is almost certainly found in the classic car world.
The MGB continues to represent fantastic value for money, although it’s well worth avoiding suspiciously cheap examples hiding rust beneath layers of filler. The MGF and MG TF also remain affordable, particularly when bought from a reputable dealer, while the Mazda MX-5 is plentiful, reliable and tremendous fun. Earlier generations are lighter, simpler and arguably the most rewarding to drive.
Of course, classic convertibles aren’t without their compromises.
Even the most devoted open-air enthusiast has to admit that British winters aren’t particularly kind to traditional fabric roofs. Anyone who has owned an MGB or Midget will know their hoods can be awkward to erect in a hurry, prone to leaks and condensation, and far from quiet at motorway speeds.
For those wanting affordable fun all year round, Richard’s pick would be an MG TF fitted with a removable hard top, giving you the best of both worlds.
Will Affordable Convertibles Return?
With the automotive industry facing enormous change, from electrification to ever-tightening emissions legislation, it seems unlikely that we’ll see a resurgence of affordable new convertibles anytime soon.
For now, the best way to enjoy top-down motoring may be to look backwards rather than forwards.
And if you’re still not convinced, Richard recently welcomed the Channel 5 News team to Great British Car Journey to discuss exactly why convertibles are disappearing from our roads. The feature explores the decline of the modern convertible and why classics continue to offer one of the most enjoyable driving experiences around.
Watch the Channel 5 feature here: