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It’s a great time to hop into a convertible car and soak in some UV rays. And while there are many convertibles in the market to choose from, there are four classics that Financial Times deems timeless.

According to the financial advice site, there are a few caveats that each of these cars need to follow. It must have a canvas, convertible roof; be rear-wheel drive; have two seats; and a manual gearbox. However, that last point is negotiable depending on the car. Here are the four classic convertibles that offer endless fun in the sun.

1. Porsche 987 Boxster (2005-2012)

The Porsche Boxster on display at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan.
The Porsche Boxster is on display at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. | Bryan Mitchell/Getty Images

According to Financial Times, “few used sports cars drive with the perfection of a Porsche Boxster.” We have to agree with them, considering the 987 Boxster features a flat-six, six-cylinder engine that pumps out 280 hp and is able to get the car up to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. Let’s not forget its slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission and convertible top contribute a lot of enjoyment to the experience.

2. Caterham 7 (1973 to present)

2006 Caterham Super Seven
2006 Caterham Super Seven | Getty Images

If you like the feeling of wind blasting your face at 70 mph while driving down a winding road, then the Caterham 7 is a great choice. Auto Express says, “The Seven is unlikely to be your only car, but if you’re looking for a raw driving experience and plenty of driving fun, then it could well hit the spot.”

Every Caterham 7 offers an open-top experience for two occupants along with a few customizations to choose from. Buyers can choose between three different engine choices and different equipment depending on how road or track-worthy they want their car to be.

3. Mazda MX-5 Convertible (2005 – 2015)

2006 Mazda MX-5
2006 Mazda MX-5 | National Motor Museum/Heritage Images/Getty Images)

If you’re looking for the ultimate fun in the sun without breaking the bank and needing any customizations, then the answer is the Mazda MX-5 Miata. But not just any Miata, Financial Times chose the “NC” generation of the MX-5 for its “sublime chassis, exceptional steering response, and a snickety gearbox that is perfection.”

Fair enough, we’re partial to the latest generation of the Miata, but we love them all at the end of the day. Also, we can’t argue that the NC Miata’s 158 hp engine and low cost of entry is a good recipe for a classic used convertible.

4. Mercedes-Benz R129 SL

A man sits in a 1996 Mercedes Benz SL500
A man sits in a 1996 Mercedes Benz SL500 | Jack Taylor/Getty Images

If you’re looking for a little more luxury, and an automatic transmission, then the Mercedes-Benz R129 SL has you covered. This version of the Mercedes SL-Class was launched in 1989 and was designed by Bruno Sacco. Under the hood was a choice of three engines: a V6, V8, or a V12. And while you may be tempted to find a used model with one of the latter two engines, Financial Times says that the V6 will suffice.

Also, buyers will love the fact that there is rear seat space, although it is limited. And there’s a hardtop too. But if you want the full open-top experience, you’ll need a friend to remove that hardtop and store it in a secure place. Once done, prepare for a lot of fun in the sun with this used Mercedes-Benz.

Classic convertibles that offer fun in the sun

Although there are plenty of convertible cars in the market to choose from, these four used classic convertibles are special in their own ways. Of course, not everyone will warm up to a British roadster or a used Mercedes-Benz, but if you’re looking for something different, these four examples will provide the unique and classic styling you desire.

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