December could be the perfect time to buy a two-seater convertible – here’s why

Back in the autumn, I sold my beloved Mazda MX-5 to make way for something new. In hindsight, that was a mistake.

Not because I don’t like my new Abarth 595, but because I picked the wrong time of year to move my Mazda on. Convertible car prices go right down as the warm weather comes to an end because everyone’s trying to shift their summer toys. I most likely would have got more for it if I held out until the spring.

But this does mean I have a great tip for you. If you fancy spending your summer cruising around with the roof down, buy a convertible in the depths of winter. There are loads of bargain drop-tops out there at this time of year, and there are few I’d recommend more highly than the Mazda MX-5.

Mazda MX-5 used prices: there are some bargains out there

While pining after my MX-5, I took to Carwow’s used car listings to see how prices were looking. I found a 2014 2.0-litre model, very similar to my old car, for less than £10,000.

It has just 44,000 miles on the clock and a clean HPI report, as well as desirable features such as heated leather seats, climate control and cruise control.

If you fancy something a bit newer, how about this 2015 model with 20,500 miles on the clock for just £13,995? It’s the latest-generation model which looks fantastic, has a lovely interior and this one has the peppy 1.5-litre engine. With 131hp on tap it’s not neck-snappingly fast, but it’s a joy to wring its neck between gear changes.

But if you do want something a bit more potent, a 2.0-litre model with 160hp can be yours for similar money. I found a 2018 2.0-litre Sport with 37,100 miles on the clock for £16,750. Both have their merits. The 1.5 is more economical and lighter, but the extra power of the 2.0-litre does make the MX-5 feel a bit more brawny. The choice is yours.

Why consider a Mazda MX-5?

I owned my Mazda MX-5 for just under two years, and it’s by far my favourite car I’ve ever owned. It put a smile on my face every time I got behind the wheel thanks to the sharp steering and eager engine, and with the roof down in the sun it was even more fun.

But it’s also a car which isn’t as compromised as you might expect. It was comfortable for driving every day, decent on the motorway and it would even return 40mpg on a long run. Sure, it was a bit noisy at speed, but not to the point of being annoying. Obviously, the MX-5 is about as impractical as cars get. But as a single person living alone I got away with it being my only car.

My car was a previous-generation MX-5, and the new one takes the same formula and just improves it. The latest MX-5 is even better to drive, more refined and has a more upmarket-feeling interior, without losing any of the charm which made me fall in love with mine.

I will almost certainly own another one some day.

Used Mazda MX-5 alternatives

I may be a bit biased towards the MX-5, but I can accept that it won’t be for everyone. Some convertibles are faster, and some are more comfortable for cruising. Here are three alternatives which each do something a bit better than the MX-5.

Mercedes SLK – the comfy cruiser

The Mercedes SLK is the perfect convertible if you want something to waft across continents in. It’s more refined and comfortable than the Mazda MX-5, but it doesn’t feel as eager through the bends.

BMW Z4 – the faster car

Sometimes you just can’t beat a big engine in a small car, and this is where the 3.0-litre BMW Z4 comes in. It sounds great and is much faster than the MX-5, but it is more expensive to buy.

Audi A5 Cabriolet – a more practical drop-top

The Mazda MX-5 is a tiny car with a tiny boot and no rear seats. If you need something more spacious, an Audi A5 Cabriolet offers a lot more luggage space, as well as a pair of seats in the rear.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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*Savings are made up of the maximum dealer discount off RRP – subject to dealership, location and trim. Prices correct at the time of writing.