Compare the best used convertible cars

When buying a second-hand convertible car, you should pay particular attention to the roof. If you’re buying a car with a fabric roof, check for tears as well as any areas where the material has worn or sagged over time. On electrically folding roofs, open and close them a few times to make sure they work smoothly.

Always check around the edges of the roof and inside the car for any signs of water ingress, and be sure to check boot space with the roof down, as some are stored back there and can eat into luggage capacity.

Check out our detailed advice guide: Used convertible cars: what are their downsides and what to avoid

Typically, a hard top convertible roof will be your best bet, because they tend to be more secure and less prone to wear and tear, as well as being quieter when driven with the roof up. However, if you’re looking at newer models, modern fabric roofs are much quieter and more secure than before, so there’s not too much difference.

Finding a good value used convertible depends largely on your needs and budget. However, the Mazda MX-5 is typically considered one of the best-value roadsters because it’s great fun to drive, while its low price when new means there are plenty of low-cost used examples to be snapped up.

Again, the Mazda MX-5 makes a great case for itself. Ownership surveys suggest excellent reliability and relatively low repair and running costs. Classic, first-generation models are prone to rust, but this hasn’t proved a problem for the latest models. It’s impossible to know exactly how reliable a used car will be, though, so be sure to check for regular servicing and maintenance, as well as if there’s any manufacturer warranty remaining.

There are reliability risks to be found with any used car, and these tend to increase with age and miles. When buying a used convertible car, be sure to give it a good look over for any damage to the wheels and bodywork, as well as checking the retracting roof is in good working order.