Spring is just around the corner, and many potential buyers may be looking for a cheap convertible sports car like a Mazda Miata or Ford Mustang for the season. Convertibles are known to be a bit heavier than their coupe counterparts, but the feeling of open air as you cruise around is unbeatable. While most of these cars are stiffer in coupe form, revisions are made to the convertible chassis to keep the handling on par. So, considering a budget, what are the 5 cheapest convertible sports cars in 2023?

2023 Mazda Miata

It may not be the cheapest on the list, but it is undoubtedly one of the best options. As they say, Miata is always the answer. For just $29,115, the 2023 Mazda Miata is an affordable convertible sports car that everyone can enjoy. Simplistic in its design, the Miata is aggressive and direct but still has a few creature comforts. A stout 181 horsepower 2.0-liter engine whips the driver along curvy roads with confidence-inspiring balance. Car and Driver report the soft top model reaching 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. In addition, the rear-wheel drive convertible has features like Apple CarPlay and forward collision warning to bring it into the modern era.

2023 Mini Convertible

The futuristic take on the classic Mini shouldn’t be looked down upon. A 2023 Mini convertible will cost $33,250. However, for the price, you get a lot of car. A 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder powers the front wheels and is controlled by a manual transmission. The 189 horsepower the S model produces makes the Mini zippy and fun to toss around corners. Seating more than one other person is another significant upside to the Mini. While it can fit five passengers, you may only want four as the backseats can get cramped.

2023 Chevrolet Camaro

A perfect beach cruiser and what you’ll see at most seaside rental car companies, the 2023 Chevrolet Camaro convertible is a barrel of fun. Starting price for the Camaro convertible is $27,795. The package comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 275 horsepower. There is a significant power difference over the others on this list, but the Camaro weighs quite a bit more than a Miata, so it needs the extra horsepower. If you spring for the LT1 model, which starts at $43,795, you get the 455 horsepower V8 for a more rowdy top-down experience.

2023 Ford Mustang

Another heavy hitter, the 2023 Ford Mustang convertible, is a great highway cruiser. Starting at just $29,165, the Mustang comes with the 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine. The EcoBoost is a fuel-efficient and powerful engine derived from the Ford Focus RS. The EcoBoost produces 310 horsepower for the Mustang, making it one of the most potent cars on this list. Although muscle cars are known to be heavy and a bit muted, the new Mustang chassis feels direct and gives the driver confidence in the curves.

2023 BMW Z4

Lastly, the 2023 BMW Z4 rounds out this list. It is the most expensive, starting at $53,795, but it is one of the most excellent cars out of the ones we mentioned above. The 2023 Z4 is the latest iteration of the iconic roadster from the luxury brand. A powerful turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine makes it fast. Dropping the top and enjoying the sounds of 382 horsepower that costs less than the Porsche Boxster it competes against makes it a great option. Premium leather seating and a thick fabric soft top give the Z4 a comfortable ride, even on the freeway. If you are looking for a more sophisticated roadster, the Z4 is likely the best option.

Which cheap convertible sports car should you buy?

If you are after the most bang for the buck convertible, potential buyers should stick to the Mazda Miata. It is the obvious choice, and for a good reason. The Miata is sporty, fun, comfortable enough to drive every day, and, most importantly, affordable. It may not have the horsepower of some models mentioned above, but its lightweight design makes it competitive.