Saving & Spending Home & Auto

5 Affordable Convertibles for Retirees That Still Feel Luxurious

Put the top down and let your hair blow with these convertibles.

senior couple enjoying road trip
Updated Nov. 15, 2024
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Some retirees simply want a practical car. But others want a convertible that lets them drive around with the top down on a warm day.

In truth, finding affordable convertibles is not easy. Many of these cars have sales prices above $50,000 and some trend near six figures.

But here are some fun and modestly priced convertible options with price tag that make them a smart money move for car owners while still maximizing fun for retirees.

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Mini Cooper Convertible

Courtesy of MINI USA Mini Cooper Convertible

MSRP: $35,700

Have fun in a small car with the Mini Cooper Convertible, which seats four and has unique British styling cues.

The Mini also has desirable perks like an active driving assistant, complimentary scheduled maintenance programs, roadside assistance, and Apple CarPlay to help with a hands-free experience.

You can also bump up to the Cooper S Convertible ($38,400) or the John Cooper Works Convertible ($44,900).

Mazda MX-5 Miata

Courtesy of Mazda Mazda MX 5 Miata

MSRP: $28,985

You don’t have to bust your budget to purchase a fun convertible that performs well and looks sporty.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata also has plenty of safety features that may be important to retirees. They include lane-departure warning, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

Ford Mustang

Courtesy of Ford Ford Mustang

MSRP: $40,020

The Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible gives you the sporty feel and style of a sports car without costing as much as some other popular brands.

The Mustang features EcoBoost technology to give you extra performance. You also get a 13.2-inch touchscreen.

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Jeep Wrangler

Courtesy of Jeep Jeep Wrangler

MSRP: $31,995

You may know the iconic Jeep Wrangler by its boxy off-road design and the fact that you can take the doors and top off the vehicle.

That versatility lets you open up the Wrangler and enjoy the warm breeze the way you would with a typical convertible. But the Wrangler’s off-road reputation means you can also take it into more places if you plan to hike, bike, or fish during retirement.

Ford Bronco

Courtesy of Ford Ford Bronco

MSRP: $39,630

Expand your view of a convertible with the Ford Bronco. It has a soft-top option so you can open it up and let the wind blow through.

The revamped Bronco features off-roading capabilities if you want to explore the great outdoors. You can even remove the doors as well as put down the roof to get a true off-roading experience.

More expensive options

Neitiry/Adobe senior couple driving cabriolet car

If you are fortunate enough to have a little extra cash, you might want to check out these options.

At more than $50,000, few would classify them as “affordable.” However, for those with fatter wallets, they can still be reasonable choices if you want a good convertible for warm days.

  • BMW Z4 sDrive30i: $54,050
  • Audi A5 Cabriolet: $55,600
  • BMW 430i Convertible: $58,700

Bottom line

Sabrina/Adobe senior multiracial couple having fun with convertible car

You can have some fun when you retire with a convertible that is sure to turn heads — and that you will have a blast driving.

But before you buy a new convertible, remember to factor in the cost of gas, maintenance, and possible repairs. And shop around to compare quotes so you can save on car insurance.

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Author Details

Jenny Cohen

Jenny Cohen is a freelance writer who has covered a bit of everything, from finance to sports to her favorite TV shows. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and FoxSports.com.