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While most people abandon convertibles for four-wheel drive models as soon as winter comes around, it’s the best time to find a great deal on a convertible! If you really want to save money, why not buy used? Used cars are often cheaper than buying new ones and can help you get more for your money, especially for Mini Coopers! Here are two of the best-used Mini Cooper convertibles and how they rank, according to U.S. News and J.D. Power, for less than an average $10,000 asking price.

1. 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible

A white and black 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible model parked at the top of an asphalt hill road
2011 Mini Cooper Convertible | BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC.

With more German engineering than British charm, the 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible is a sleek and stylish ride with plenty of power. According to U.S. News, the average used price range for this model year is between $6,003 – $10,678, making it an excellent option for those looking to stay within a budget.

Available as a convertible and a hardtop, the 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible ranks at No. 2 within the U.S. News best-used convertibles list, with an overall rating of 8.9 out of 10. It’s powered by a lively yet economical 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 121 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a six-speed automatic is available.

Meanwhile, the sporty Cooper S and raucous John Cooper Works (JCW) trim comes with a turbocharged version of the same engine that produces 181 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque in the Cooper S and 208 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque in the JCW. These models also get a MacPherson Strut front suspension and multi-link rear setup for smoother ride quality.

Its small size makes maneuvering and parking in tight spaces a breeze, while its impressive handling and powerful engine make it an exciting car to drive. Although not as much as its rivals, such as the 2011 Volvo C30, 2011 Mazda 3, and 2011 Volkswagen GTI/Golf offers, the 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible has a smaller cabin but plenty of legroom for two passengers.

J.D. Power’s U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study rates the 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible as “Above Average” regarding overall dependability. In fact, the 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible is an award-winning vehicle with the fewest problems reported per 100 owners during the past 12 months, three years after going on sale.

2. 2013 Mini Cooper Convertible

Small cars have always been a popular option for those who need to navigate city streets, and the 2013 Mini Cooper Convertible is no exception. According to U.S. News, used models of the 2013 Mini Cooper Convertible start at $7,951 and can reach up to $10,567.

It is an excellent option for budget-conscious shoppers and reviewers alike. U.S. News gave the 2013 Mini Cooper Convertible an overall rating of 8.83 out of 10, ranking it at No. 11 on its used convertibles list.

The same 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine from the 2011 model is also featured in the 2013 Mini Cooper Convertible, paired with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic transmission for smoother gear shifts. The base engine only takes 8.3 seconds (1.2 seconds more with the automatic) to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. In comparison, the turbocharged engines get there even faster at 6.5 seconds (and 0.2 seconds more with the automatic).

The 2013 Mini Cooper Convertible delivers outstanding fuel economy thanks to its lightweight and aerodynamic design. According to Edmunds, the EPA estimates for the 2013 Mini Cooper Convertible are 31 mpg combined (27 city/35 highway) with a manual transmission and 31 mpg combined (28 city/36 highway) with an automatic transmission.

J.D. Power’s U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study rates the 2013 Mini Cooper Convertible as “Above Average,” with very few problems reported per 100 owners during the past 12 months. Overall, it’s an ideal car for those looking for a fun and stylish ride without breaking the bank.

Best used convertibles under $10,000 for 2023

Although the 2011 and 2013 Mini Cooper convertibles are top picks for those looking for a used convertible on a budget, several other options are available. The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 2011 Volkswagen Eos, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, and 2010 Nissan 370Z Convertible are worth considering.

With their lively engine performance and fuel economy, convertibles provide an exciting driving experience without breaking the bank. Their reliable overall dependability makes them great cars to drive for years. So, if you’re in the market for a used convertible that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, winter is the perfect time to snag yourself a great deal on used Mini Cooper convertibles. 

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