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The weather is warming up, which means that it’s a great time to get behind the wheel of a convertible. There’s almost no better feeling than cruising around with the top down with the wind blowing in your hair (if you have any). However, most convertible cars in the new car market today are expensive. Here’s a list of used convertible cars that you can find for under $10,000.

1. 2008 Mazda Miata

A red 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | Mazda

The term “smiles for miles” is clearly overused when talking about the Mazda Miata, but it’s so fitting. The Miata is a legendary roadster that’s been in the market for over 30 years, and it’s clear to see why. The car’s rear-drive, lightweight architecture matches well with its eager four-cylinder engine. Drop the top on one of these on a sunny day, and you’ll be smiling the whole drive, no matter how many miles it lasts. See, the Miata does offer the most smiles for miles.

2. 2009 Ford Mustang Convertible

A red Ford Mustang convertible
Ford Mustang Convertible | Ford

The 2009 Ford Mustang Convertible has plenty to offer if you’re looking for fun in the sun. Unlike the Miata, it has four seats, which means that a couple of friends can come along for the ride. Also, a V6 engine is standard in this Mustang generation, but a V8 was also available. We would say that the larger engine is a must-have.

3. 2008 Toyota Solara Convertible

Toyota Camry Solara
Toyota Camry Solara Convertible | Toyota

Everyone knows the Toyota Camry nameplate very well, but they may have forgotten about the Solara. For the uninformed, the Toyota Solara was a two-door coupe based on the Camry. That means it carried the same reliability and fuel-efficient engines as its sedan counterpart. It was also available as a convertible, which offered plenty of open-air fun.

4. 2011 Infiniti G37 Convertible

Infiniti G37 Convertible
Infiniti G37 Convertible | Infiniti

The Infiniti G37 is based on the sporty coupe, which means it has the same athletic handling and eager V6 engine. However, it also comes with a convertible hardtop that provides more structural support and sound deadening than cars with a soft top. In some ways, the G37 Convertible gives you the functionality of a coupe and the fun of a drop-top.

5. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

A red Mitsubishi Eclipse convertible at an auto show
Mitsubishi Eclipse Convertible | Getty Images

The Mitsubishi Eclipse was a sporty coupe that developed a cult following during its production years. The last generation may not have been as popular as the one in the 90s, but it was still fun to drive and notable in its own right. Best of all, the Eclipse was offered in a convertible form, making it even more fun for drivers who like to be one with the outside world.

6. 2004 BMW Z4

A red BMW Z4 convertible at an auto show
BMW Z4 Convertible | Getty Images

If the Mazda Miata and Ford Mustang aren’t your speed, the BMW Z4 could be a good choice. Thanks to its prestigious badge and subtle styling, the Z4 carries the same panache as the other models in the German automaker’s lineup. It also carries the same powerful engines and handling prowess.

7. 2008 Nissan 350Z Convertible

A blue Nissan 350Z convertible
Nissan 350Z Convertible | Getty Images

Kelley Blue Book says, “The Nissan 350Z is a brilliant pick if you’re looking for real sporting ability in an open-top 2-seater.” The 350Z has a powerful V6 engine and a well-tuned suspension to provide plenty of fun in the sun this summer. However, it doesn’t have a backseat like its corporate cousin, the Infiniti G37, but it has a similar driving characteristic.

These seven used convertible cars offer plenty of fun in the sun without breaking the bank

If you’re looking to get the most out of the great weather this summer, driving a convertible is an excellent way to do it. These seven convertibles are great choices that won’t ruin your budget. However, you may need to scour the local classified and private sales to find a few of these cars for less than $10,000.

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