Convertible Miata - An Affordable Alternative

Whether you're shopping for your very first convertible or you're a long-time fan of driving with the top down, you could probably use a price break in these tough economic times. Even if you're doing well financially, you may wonder whether the exorbitant price tags on some of these roadsters are truly worth it, or whether you could find a better deal on a more affordable alternative. The answer to that question lies in examining what you value in a convertible - and what kinds of features and amenities you're willing to pay extra for.

One of the gold standards when it comes to high performance convertible roadsters is the BMW Z3. BMWs are in a class by themselves - or so goes the conventional wisdom. In reality, you don't have to drop upwards of $30K for an enjoyable convertible experience; instead, you could invest in the Mazda Miata SE and save yourself anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 upfront! Of course, you'll be sacrificing the cache of the BMW brand name, but when it comes to comparing the two cars in terms of looks and handling, you may be surprised by how they stack up.

Both cars are small two-seaters with classic convertible shapes and no added bulk to disturb their sleek lines. The Miata, however, comes equipped with features like leather seats, a wood console and a CD player - all add-ons that will drive up the price of the BMW Z3 by at least $2,000. The Miata's sound system actually far outpaces the Z3, giving you more bang for your buck if you like to listen to music in your convertible. Car enthusiasts have reported that the Miata's air conditioning system is also much more efficient than that offered by the Z3.

However, there is one area in which the Miata can't compete: The engine. The BMW boasts a 6-cylinder engine with 193 horse power, while the Miata offers a 4-cylinder engine with 140 horse power. This is where you truly have to evaluate what, exactly, you want from a convertible. If you have a "need for speed," then perhaps spending the extra cash on a BMW will be worthwhile - but if you simply want to tool around town and enjoy the wind in your hair, the Miata will more than suffice. Both are fun to drive and offer the luxury of a convertible experience; the question is, are you looking for unbridled speed or astounding value? If the answer is the latter, then the Miata is the car for you.