Summertime is upon us. The blooming flowers, greenery after fresh rains and the welcomed warmth that summer brings after a chilling South African winter. It's time to get outside and one of the best ways to do this is with a convertible or a roadster.
Related: Best used convertibles between R100 000 and R200 000
The concept of a convertible vehicle has been around for a long time with a simple concept; a folding roof, be it hard or soft, to let the breeze and environment around you inside allowing you to hear an engine roar. If it rains, simply pull the roof up manually or via electrical assistance. The idea has fascinated many for the ages and the reliability and technology surrounding it has improved so you need not worry much about a leaky roof.
With all that being said, here are 3 compact convertible vehicles you can consider for the summer. All the vehicles listed here can be found when you search AutoTrader.co.za
1. Mercedes Benz SLK
The Mercedes Benz SLK (The last model released was renamed to 'SLC') is one of the executive choices here. The name 'SLK' expands and translates from German as "Sporty Lightweight and Short" with a folding hardtop roof. Powerplants range from small, supercharged engines to big hulking V8s for you to choose from. The SLK has quite a sense of humour in that regard and makes for an entertaining drive. Sadly, this vehicle is no longer in production but a few are floating around on our site to choose from.
Used and New Mercedes Benz SLK on AutoTrader
2. BMW Z4
The BMW Z4 is part of BMW's 'Z' range of roadsters. For the sake of this article, we'll focus on the current generation BMW Z4 which is still available to buy new. The current generation Z4 shares the same platform as the latest Toyota Supra and is manufactured at the same plant. While a razor-sharp sports car, you also get a soft retractable roof that is quick to operate. There's a powerful array of engines ranging from turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engines to turbocharged 6-cylinder engines. If you want something executive but insist on having driving pleasure as the main focus, this is your ticket.
Used and New BMW Z4 on AutoTrader
3. Mazda MX-5
The Mazda MX-5 is the best-selling roadster globally and for good reason. A simple formula; front-engined, rear-wheel drive, reliable, easy to maintain and most of all, affordability were the key factors driving its success. It's one of the cars that capture the essence of open-top motoring. Although recently no longer sold in South Africa, quite a few examples are floating around. The last generation to sell here is quite a desirable one to have.
Used and New Mazda MX-5 on AutoTrader
Our Pick?
Our team were divided between the Mazda MX-5 and BMW Z4. My personal pick would be the Mazda MX-5, it exudes a charm unlike no other.
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