The CAR WIZARD shares which fun Summer Convertible Cruisers TO Buy & NOT to Buy

[@hellkitty1014]

Can't believe Wizard missed a chance to bang on the rental-special of America, also known as the Chrysler Sebring.🤣

[@ozarkliving7263]

Truth, that was a pile of junk

[@atx-cvpi_99]

@@ozarkliving7263 especially those that have the dreaded 2.7 V6 engine. The Chrysler 2.7 V6 wasn’t good on performance nor reliability.

[@robertdrumm1127]

I rented on to drive through wine country in California. It was a ball. But I’m glad I didn’t own it and have to pay for repair$.

[@hellkitty1014]

@@atx-cvpi_99 as a Mopar guy, I 100% agree. The 2.7 sludged up as soon as it left the dealer from being purchased. There is a reason we don't see many around. It always was odd to me because the Chrysler 3.5 was a great engine, being very powerful for the time. There is a reason we don't see many around.

[@hellkitty1014]

@@robertdrumm1127 They were great cars for regular driving. And for the price, they were tough to beat for convertibles. But that car helped to give Chrysler such a bad rep. The Ultrashift trans didn't help matters much either....

[@rogerpritchard]

Probably the most level headed, decent and honest guy on u tube in relation to cars.

[@mikerowland1701]

I agree with the 60’s Beetles. I had a 66 convertible that had the spirit of an ancient warrior that was always fighting me.

[@caddieguy6510]

Surprised the C4 or C5 corvette hasn’t made the list. For the dollar that’s a great summer cruiser with some power under the hood too

[@jefffreind7530]

I have owned VW convertibles for over 40 yrs, I have one in Florida and one in upstate NY. I love them both and they run great, easy to work on and fun to drive.

[@ClintE55]

I just bought a super fine 1995 Honda del sol Vtec 5 speed. I had 3 before in my younger days. The sticker shock got me. But still cheap and very fun

[@ozarkliving7263]

Good choice

[@ClintE55]

@@ozarkliving7263 thanks I always loved them and looked for years this is a great example. The paint work isn't 100 percent but she's fantastic has alot of miles but solid as a rock

[@GreenAppelPie]

Mrs. Wizard definitely sounds like a schoolteacher when she’s asking questions

[@alexandrecouture2462]

That's because she is! You might already know it, but it is her day job.

[@almostlastplace]

Happy to see the MR2 spyder get some love! My gf got one because it was her childhood dream car and it is a fun little car to cruise around in.

[@Nickword1]

That's why this channel is golden!! The knowledge this man provides is truly remarkable!!

[@lilrobbie2k]

Bought my wife a low-mileage 2012 Infiniti G37 convertible a few years ago. Besides regular maintenance, it's been a fun and reliable vehicle that she drives daily and really enjoys driving with the top down in warmer temps!

[@ARAR148]

Our family had a 1986 Volkswagen cabriolet, my mom drove it everywhere as a daily driver for 15 years straight, but in 2006 we did park it in the garage and left it till 2019

[@wagonron]

I love when Mrs. Wizard pipes up:)

[@mikegreen2229]

I’m a complete vintage VW maniac. I own a 58 Beetle and 60 Bus. I totally agree with Wizard. A 50 year old VW is ONLY for a serious enthusiast. It’s not a car for your teenage kid. It IS a great car for someone looking to learn classic cars for a hobby. It has taken almost 30 years of experience to learn a high level of expertise about these vehicles. The smallest of errors you make will cause long term damage. If you set ignition timing just a bit off, it can overheat very fast in the summer. If you know what you are doing, an engine can survive a torturous Baja Mexico race for hundreds of miles. They handle extreme weather better than any car IF you know what you are doing.

[@brianleslie7388]

Raced off road with a Chenoweth chassis and a 1600 cc vw engine. Done right, one engine would last a racing season.

[@mikegreen2229]

@@brianleslie7388 No doubt. And what most people don’t realize is even in stock form, they handle arctic weather amazingly. No block heater required, no freezing over.

[@boyscouts5000]

If you can find one you can get the old VW beetles was built up till 2003

[@Freddy-td8fl]

Not my friend trash is trash

[@Paulman50]

Yep, just rebuilt the top end of mine $290 barrels & pistone $150 flycut heads $ few more for bits and pieces 👍👍👍

[@Tool0GT92]

An MR2 is basically a backwards Corolla, its the same powertrain setup just in the back instead of the front.

[@chassegallerie2910]

I think that the 2 old VWs that were mentionned as "do not buy" actually are "buy with caution" if you have mechanic skills. They're not bad, they're just old.

[@tedsaylor6016]

He actually mentioned 3 VAG (Volkswagen Audi Group) cars. A Trifecta.

[@chassegallerie2910]

@@tedsaylor6016 No. He mentionned 4, if you want to go with the conglomerate (One of them being the Boxter, but he said they were good car). I'm speaking about the only 2 cars that has VW badges on them, not the cars that were made by the VW conglomerate.

[@colchronic]

Profile pic checks out

[@EyePatchGuy88]

What about taking a normal hardtop and turning it into a Beach Buggy?

[@markwarren7959]

VW's are trash.

[@230k19]

I have lots of comments about this video. The most important comment... Mrs Wizard is hilarious. Her background comments are so funny. She takes these videos from serious car videos to funny serious car videos. So great. She is probably 55.6% of the reason I subscribe.

[@ethanvincent8270]

I picked up an '08 Volvo C70 a couple months ago! Its not a small convertible by any means, but I love the hardtop because Utah winters are terrible. It is just over 100k miles, and the previous owner kept it really nice and serviced regularly. Loved this video!

[@gordonmccracken1209]

I had a 2004 soft top C70 T5:it was fast and reliable. More shoulder room than the newer hardtops and more cowl shake but you can buy under body braces that help stiffen them.

[@alancrook1745]

I bought a 99 NB miata last year and I'm in love. I'm not a race car driver so I don't need to go fast (yet forced induction is a strong possibility for the future). So much character and so agile. I'm 5'8 and i fit like a glove in it.

[@plektosgaming]

Another fun car is the 2013/2104 Mustang V6 convertible. Absolutely get it in manual. These are reliable, fun, and get 25-30mpg highway. As a plus, with the top down, they actually do fit 4 adults. The next generation (2105+) somehow changed the rear seats just enough that adults can't really fit in the rear any more. Before, the headroom was tight but manageable, but no top means no issues - just how your butt fits the seat. Note that the V8s are faster, but are *way* more money - almost double used, less reliable, and 18mpg is a good day. The V6 still does under 7 seconds 0-60 and is no slouch in getting you going quickly.

[@666cemetaryslut]

Its probably the girliest car imaginable though

[@6lemans10]

@@666cemetaryslut It is.

[@bryant6251]

@@666cemetaryslut they improved the looks over the earlier 4.0L V6 models. The 2012+ had dual exhaust and some better looking wheels. 305 HP isn't bad either. I used to own a 2011 GT and it wasn't really that fun... the chassis and suspension isn't up to the power.

[@davva360]

I had a 2011 V6 Mustang with manual 6 speed. It was not the convertible but boy was it a fun car. It was the first year they changed from the 4.0 to the 3.7 V6 and it had about 50% more power. Was pretty quick to 60, about 5.4 seconds, and still got 32MPG on the highway. Great car, still miss it.

[@theewelder]

@@666cemetaryslut lol

[@SofaKingTouge]

I have owned a solstice gxp since new. 46k miles and still hasn't broken. Fingers crossed. Very fast and affordable. I've only replaced the battery and alternator. Top is very delicate and doesn't hold up to manhandling. Be gentle with the top and all is good. No trunk space at all. I also had a z4. Not very fast but just a great car. I can give the keys to anyone and trust they won't kill themselves. Easier to live with as a daily driver then the solstice.

[@SofaKingTouge]

Also had a 914 6. Now that car was a nightmare. So much fun when it worked. Painfully expensive when it broke and it broke a lot.

[@BigjohnZ06]

It’s too bad that there’s Not a Chevy or maybe a Buick version of the Solstice that could still been made after the Pontiac brand went away.

[@Bdub1952]

We've had five Miatas in the family (3 NA's 2 NB's) and from a simplicity, reliability, parts availability, AND fun perspective, they really can't be beat. I'm 5'7" and my wife is 5'2". We fit perfectly. Definitely not recommended for larger folks.

[@md2k8]

Agreed

[@schnuffelpuff3923]

MX5 is cool but Abarth 124 Spider is the way to go if you can afford the couple extra bucks

[@bindingcurve]

@@schnuffelpuff3923 Why? The ND2 has more power

[@schnuffelpuff3923]

@@bindingcurve Comparing both 2019 Models the ND has only 11HP more but 45Nm less torque and both have close to the same weight. They are build on the same platform but the Abarth is supposed to be a little more sporty, that's why they also reworked the suspension, made the car a little longer for better aerodynamics and handling and used a sportier 1.4L Turbo instead of the 2.0L NA from Mazda

[@TheCreamRisesToTheTop]

I’m 6’2” and I feel like I’m pushing the limits for my NB 😂

[@kameronlittle4537]

Wizard: "You've officially made a Mercedes hooptie" Hoovie: *Heavy Breathing

[@james2042]

I feel like the "do not buy" section was just targeted at old VW's when there is a lot more recent cars you will actually see on the road vs collectables. Chrysler Sebring convertible, Mercedes SLK (or really any), BMW Z4 or 3 series convertibles, Caddy XLR convertible, Just theres so many others that are actually modern and something most people will actually buy. People aren't going after 80's or 60's VW's unless they're specifically hunting them down, and at that point the people don't care about recommendations because they WANT THAT CAR.

[@Duke_Nuke]

Yeah, he had a rare miss on this one. The VWs should've been more of an honorable mention since anyone looking for then should know what they're getting into. Smart car or new beetle would've been good choices. I don't really agree on the boxter either since you can't easily access the engine and you can get similar year corvettes/mustang for the same price if not cheaper. MR2 should've been more of an honorable mention as well since you rarely see them.

[@greggcollins4215]

We had an 02 Sebring Convertible. It was a great and reliable car. If not for a jackass in a Mazda running a stop sign we would still be driving it. The 2.7 had close tolerances and needed to have the oil changed often. But it was an excellent engine.

[@FlyMysticalDJ]

Well if you’re buying a car just for summer driving, you’re def looking for specific cars. I think it’s a fine selection.

[@james2042]

@@FlyMysticalDJ nah, I know plenty of people who would just look for a convertible so they could cruise with the top down.

[@aaryeshg.6526]

I'm surprised he didn't mention Mercedes SLK or even the CLK cabrio. Their engines are a beast, yeah most of them are automatic. Automatic is a norm on Merc and they're smooth shifting so its great. If you want manual, look elsewhere. I would still prefer CLK coupe, 500 or 55 AMG (not a fan of cabrios). Don't have to worry about roof mechanism issues also. They're awesome premium muscle cars for the money.

[@jamesschlueter8285]

Since 2006 my Audi TT (225 QC) has been perfect with only routine maintenance. I’m looking forward to another 15 years with it.

[@Cheepchipsable]

Good luck with that...

[@quattroredneck]

yeah they are actually pretty solid when maintained properly. 1.8t’s are one of the few VW engines that dont suck.

[@FinancialAdviceNetwork]

@@Cheepchipsable😂😂

[@nateoverthehorizon1176]

Heck yeah the mr2 spyder! I’ve had two! I’m planning to make my 2002 a 2zzge performance cruiser. But my 01 with the necessary pre cat gut was so great and dependable, I basically treated it as my daily driver because I got 30 mpg. Get a Miata if you want more luggage space and drift around.

[@aygwm]

Hard to imagine a car with less space than a Miata 🤯

[@scottoleson1997]

@@aygwm the engine’s in the trunk, and I don’t think there’s much space up front

[@robertdrumm1127]

Yeah I have one. 117k miles. It had been engine swapped (just a 1zz replacement…why not a 2zz) probably because of the precats. Unfortunately the new engine which was a junkyarder with only about 40k miles total was a mess. I did a head gasket and replaced the rod bearings. Glad I got the car cheap, because I now have over $10k in it. Despite the extra expense,which I didn’t expect from a Toyota, I don’t regret it. It is a lot of fun. Unfortunately here in Kansas there aren’t so many curvey roads so I can’t get the most out of it. Still a cheap mid-life crisis.

[@nateoverthehorizon1176]

@@scottoleson1997 they did a weird thing and put an exhaust where the trunk should have been compared to an older mr2 😂 they give you a storage bin behind the seats that I believe fits the mandatory pack of golf clubs. And there’s a front trunk that has a spare tire but you could fit a thin backpack or some books in it. Remove the spare you could fit a haul of groceries in it.

[@slamcrank]

@@robertdrumm1127 This is not uncommon on those MR2 models. If you were unfortunate to buy a pre-2003, then your engine likely suffered from the dreaded sludging problem that ruined the engines. They are not the beacon of reliability that some portray. After 2003, Toyota fixed the issue but the MR2 didn't stick around much longer. You'll often find MR2's with swapped engines because they just don't make it past 100k miles if they develop the sludge issue. I don't see many MR2's on the road anymore, and most of the ones I do see have had an engine swap. Of the first three cars Wizard mentioned, I would advise folks to stay away from the MR2 unless you can pick it up for cheap.

[@landinhart2848]

On a serious note talking about the mr2, I have a 2005 Toyota Corolla with the 1ZZ-FE combined with a 5 speed and lemme tell you. You can abuse that motor and it will keep on chugging with no problem whatsoever. Even being a 4 door Corolla it still rows through gears and you have plenty of fun doing it

[@bill_clinton697]

I used to own a 2005 Toyota Corolla and that was the best car I've ever owned. I got 40 mpg with it, it never broke down, and just ran. It was slow and the 4 speed was showing its age (it went probably 245k miles without a fluid change), but it was reliable. I think the only maintenance I ever did to that thing was replace a tail light and headlight, a serpentine belt, oil changes, and a transmission fluid change. I sold that car with around 250-255k miles and the current owner is still driving it with 270k+ miles. As for the transmission, I'm one that believes in doing changes even if you don't know the service history. There weren't any metal flakes on the dipstick and changing the fluid did help resolve some of the issues with that transmission. I drained the original fluid, put new fluid in it (and underfilled it slightly), drove it around and noticed the transmission wasn't shifting right. Tried to top it off and I overfilled it. Then I tried to drain a bit of the fluid but it was too hot for me to reinsert the drain plug. Drove my mom's car to AutoZone and got some more ATF and filled it to the fill point. After that, it shifted as it usually did, but stopped slipping the 1-2 shift at 4000 RPMs.

[@landinhart2848]

@@bill_clinton697 I had the transmission replaced in mine as it is a 5 speed manual and the synchro’s for 3rd and 4th were pretty much gone. And I will say it’s much faster with the 5 speed, with about 128k it still does 0-60 in about 7-10 seconds depending on if the clutch slips due to heat. Still haven’t replaced that and i believe it’s the original clutch from 05. As for the engine I’ve done nothing to it since I got the car and it gets anywhere from 25-35mpg even with me shifting at 4500-5000 almost every time. Been through 4 oil changes and it’s almost come out gold every time. I change it about every 5-6 thousand miles. Magnet has been clean every single time and I mean 100% clean no flakes or anything. The throwout bearing has been driving me insane for the past 5k miles or so, the clutch fork wasn’t replaced with the transmission so it has some wear which put strain on the bearing which is now squeaking about 60% of the time

[@Orelionsworkshop]

You forgot the Honda S2000 (I know you don't like them), but it is in those price ranges, nice power and super reliable!

[@hotpuppy1]

Not as common to find

[@shovel_head80]

I have 92 ragtop vette with a 107k and I have replaced all the wear items and rebuild my transmission. Extremely reliable and very inexpensive to own and maintain.

[@bigty4725]

I got a 93 corvette. It’s an awesome car white with red interior

[@shovel_head80]

@@bigty4725 red on red with white top . Best car to have is a paid for sports car

[@bigty4725]

@@shovel_head80 that’s awesome! Yeah for sure nothing beats that lol

[@EM-ru3eh]

Thanks Wizard! I am relieved to see my beloved 2014 VW Eos didn’t make the naughty list. Love that car!!!

[@md2k8]

That's good.

[@andrewowendoff3347]

Love the video. One thing to keep in mind with the MR2s are the pre cat issue. What happens with the cats is they break up and suck the cat pieces into the engine. This happened to mine with only 70K miles. Was a real shame.

[@lonerider5315]

28 years old owned 38 cars now, currently have a 91 4Runner (117k miles) Bmw e30 1987 160k miles (convertible) And a 2wd 88 Toyota pick up 202k Doing my best to create a mobile mechanic service, doing the light work 💪 Also pre purchase inspections

[@nortbray]

I have a 2004 Eclipse Spyder. It's a hooptie, but it's still fun. It has been reliable for the 2 years I have owned it. It has been to N. Carolina and up to Arkansas a couple of times from south Mississippi. It is an automatic, so it is a cruiser, but it is still fun. Gas milage with the four cylinder is not great, middle 20's, but it is only a four speed. I live in the south, so rust is not an issue if it is a local car.

[@Scruffy32]

I have a 99 miata and its great from the standpoint of getting anything done. Everyone is willing to work on it i can buy parts anywhere and its never left me stranded

[@theewelder]

miata,s are chic cars.........dont get hit in a pick up in that shopping cart.....uncomfy death traps...all facts...

[@johng.4959]

Troll Alert! (See other post) The Miata is definitely a great car and for those that actually KNOW... It's awesome to modify and reliable as hell! Great car to own and even better to drive.

[@GetOffMyLog]

@@theewelder chick car... debatable but they are very cute (although the nd gen is far more agressive). Uncomfortable... only if you're 6'1" or taller. Unsafe... yes the na and nbs are not very safe, but the nc and nd generations are quite safe. However. As far as cheap fun goes they are hard to beat.

[@Riley_1955]

I looked really hard at buying a Miata but it was just to small for me.......I'm sure it would have been a great little cruiser.

[@rachelblack3816]

I loved my '95 Miata, it was (almost) bulletproof. Extremely reliable and a ton of fun to drive! But at 5'11 it seemed the footwell was a bit too short for me (my knees were pushed up close to the bottom of the dash), and I always felt that it was best suited for typical-sized American women and Japanese people. The thing that aggravated me the most about it was EVERY TIME it rained I had a steady, constant drip onto my left leg from the driver's window-- I had to keep a towel handy to cover my leg when it rained. Also, it was so low to the ground that street flooding caused by heavy summer thunderstorms caused me many tense moments as I very slowly sailed through. My replacement vehicle was a CRV with 8" of ground clearance, and plenty of leg room!

[@JamesMH]

I have a Saturn Sky redline and I love it to bits

[@Tripp426]

I knew the Miata was going to be on here and it makes sense that the MR2 is as well, but I was not expecting the Boxster. That makes me really happy as they are within my budget, finding one with a manual transmission isn't that difficult, and I really like the look of them.

[@matthewkennedy5483]

I have been able to drive Porsche's since I worked at a used car dealer, but never thought I could get one. I knew the boxsters were cheap but I was always told that if I bought one it would just blow up. If its really just the seal I would love to own one ! Thanks for the great list and I shall start hunting now :D

[@cabeiri6653]

Porsche is one of the most reliable brands actually

[@paulandres8979]

I own a second generation MR2, non-turbo. I've owned this car for 24 years and has been rock solid. Yeah it's not as fast as the turbo models but I really like knowing I can just turn the key and go.

[@williamdunn9053]

My summer car is a 1974 Jensen Healey. ALL it does is break, it strands me and breaks my heart and wallet constantly. I’ve had it 12 years now and I’m committed!! It’s an unrestored survivor car in terrible shape and it is a blast to drive! It just keeps going against all odds: 124,000 miles on it now

[@Strongholle]

The old TT's can get kinda convoluted to work on for a less experienced mechanic but it's really not all that much of a mess to get around of. Some of the parts can be hard to get or expensive, especially sensors and so on but many others are really cheap. Tons of shared parts with other VAG cars, the engine is very reliable and so are most of the mechanicals. There are a couple of typical oil leaks which aren't that hard to solve, suspension is about as hard to work on as any other car and many of the typical problems like the coils or the gas/temp gauges or the screens are annoyances more than car killing problems

[@lawrencium2652]

And then and then and then...

[@ReplicantBattyman]

to be fair here in the uk they have a reputation as a decent sports car. i do wonder if the woeful reputation VAG has with the car wizard is due to them being foreign cars in america whereas over here theyre european and parts are way easier to get?

[@Strongholle]

@@lawrencium2652 I'm a mechanic and I'm really surprised anyone thinks these are complex. Every single car has difficult things, these have a few known failure points and none of them are a big deal. Early ones had bad coils, which were recalled and still are 100$ for the lot and a 15 minute job at the most. Cluster gauges that fail aren't even soldered in so it's in and out and you can get them easily and for nothing. With fluid and belt changes these run forever and what, you got to change suspension bushings and rubber tubes every 15 years? come on. Plus, the wizard recommends the MR2 and Boxter, mid engined sports cars, as reasonable maintenance options against the Audi? The MR2 has a tiny, cramped engine bay in the fucking middle of the car, the porsche has all that, plus a flat 6 and Porsche parts prices. Gimme a break.

[@issacnewton9443]

Pretty easy to work on, the main thing I've seen that you can count on at this point is the original plastic coolant flanges are cracked. Easy to replace those for cheap and you can upgrade to aluminum ones for lifetime use. None of the parts seem super expensive either.

[@niceday2061]

You should have mentioned a Clk 55 cabriolet amg, it is so much fun to drive and it is actually reliable car that can last a long time if maintained properly.

[@aaryeshg.6526]

Underrated beast. I think he didn't mention it because there's no manual gearbox option on them.

[@DeloreanGuy2]

The Delorean was another car developed with Bosch K-Jettronic mechanical fuel injection system. Works great when it's up and running, but like you said, when it sits, it goes to shit real fast and can be quite expensive to get going again if you don't know what you're doing

[@MrDJHawk]

I've got a 1992 Volkswagen Cabriolet. Best car I've ever owned by a very, very large margin. It was only $4,000 Canadian when I bought it in 2015. I've horribly abused it for seven years and it now has 397,000 km on it it (Canada). Still runs great. Unbelievably cheap to maintain (front wheel bearings are $30, full set of rears are $18). I did a complete suspension overhaul in 2017 for $900. Everything you see in the wheel well except the drive shafts replaced. When the engine tanks, which seems unlikely, I can replace the whole thing for maybe $300.

[@otak3613]

I had an audi tt mk1 for three years as a daily driver and never had a major issue with that car. I think that if you maintain the car well then it can be pretty reliable. But i'm from europe so it is probably cheaper to maintain an old audi here compared to US. And it is a really fun car to drive for the money you can get it here.

[@hollybirge4087]

I have a 1985 Toyota Celica. While I’m working out some drivability issues like replacing bushings, etc, that car starts every time, without fail. And I love cruising around in it.

[@laurat1129]

The Wizard doesn't like Saabs (though I think he just hasn't met any), but my '99 9-3 is a great all-season CV. If you can find them in good condition, and know how to fix or have a good mechanic, OEM parts are still available, so they can be a great deal (safe, too). ETA: The VW Beetle and Rabbit Cabrios were among my HS dream cars in the 80s, but it's very telling you don't see the Rabbits on the road at all anymore. As for my 1st car, I ended up buying a practical (but still fun and great for learning stickshift) '80 Corolla coupe. Ah, memories...

[@hannahpumpkins4359]

My parents had a Toyota Tercel for around 25 years. All that it ever needed was brakes, oil changes, a muffler, spark plugs, and a new radiator (here up north the weather is hard on cars). It had around 300,000 miles when they got rid of it - they only did so because the floor pans were rusting out, but it was still going just fine!

[@mph5896]

Friend bought an early 80's Tercel back in the mid 90's for $80. Car still ran and drove like a top, but the body was quite rotted out.

[@davidnelson7149]

That njection system on the Rabbit was originally developed for the Messerschmitt ME 109 WWII fighter plane, though that was purely mechanical.

[@seanm2511]

Sigh... Bosch K Jetronic shares ABSOLUELY NOTHING IN COMMON with the DB605 engine.

[@blackbird8632]

Oh come on dude, they are nothing alike. Can you name similarities?

[@davidnelson7149]

@@blackbird8632 Yes, they're both injection systems using the same mechanical principles.

[@davidnelson7149]

@@seanm2511 Ah, an absolutist with a total inability for lateral thinking. ALL injection systems are derivatives of the original MB system, just as all Homo-sapiens are derivatives of chromagnum hominoids and Neanderthals. Perhaps if we had remained purely chromagnum, we wouldn't be such a confrontational and aggresive species; but there you are. The same is true that all carburettors are derivatives of the original carb invented by that French bloke.

[@davidnelson7149]

@@blackbird8632 Please read my original post again old chap, nowhere did I say that they were the same system, but that the latter was an evolutionary strand of the former.

[@AaronSmith-kr5yf]

Don't know what they sell for now days, but 12 years ago I picked up a clean 1 owner 1998 Camaro Z28 rag top, six speed, first year for the legendary LS1 V8. Had it for 3 years, drove it from 95k to 115k with ZERO problems. Bought it for $9000, sold it for $11,000 lol, but it was the recession, dude was broke and had to sell his toys. Well I did fix a couple things like the cassette radio, blown speakers, new driver's seat bottom and the tire bill was ridiculous since I drove it like I stole it. Suprisingly it was pretty solid in terms of squeaks/rattles, convertible top was mint since it was always garaged, none of the plastic bits broke on it.

[@itsnotme07]

Love the comments from Mrs. Wizard!! Great info Car Wizard!! Think I'll just keep my 2001 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited as my "summer cruiser"....been working well over the past 21 years. Don't fix what isn't broken. Also glad you didn't recommend that Sebring Convertible....no no. Only reason I have one...bought it new, very well maintained and garaged. Great car!

[@larryfromwisconsin9970]

We had the latest model of the Mitsubishi Eclipse convertible with the 4 cylinder automatic with a slap stick shifter. It was fun and we drove it daily for 5 years no problem.

[@michaelmurdock6560]

The secret to owning a vintage VW Beetle is that you must know how to maintain it yourself. They are simple but require regular maintenance, and if you are not mechanically inclined you will have a heck of a time finding a mechanic who still works on them.

[@bbishoppcm]

As the owner of a 1994 Miata, I'm not surprised you didn't mention the Gen. 1 or 2 models - they're getting to be hideously expensive and suffer from old-car problems. It took me two years to sort mine out and it cost me a few grand in the process - but what I was left with in the end is pure carefree driving pleasure! These early cars are easy as hell to work on, as long as you find a rust-free example. I swear, an NA Miata is the most fun you can legally have with 131 HP. It is rather unfortunate that so many of these cars were destroyed by either rust, teenagers, or both...

[@NNoradIV]

I really feel that the C5/C6 corvettes should be on the "do buy" section.

[@neilbrown82]

4th gen f body convertibles some of the ls cars got 30 miles per gallon on the highway as well

[@donwilbanks2226]

When it was time to let another owner take my '78 Trans Am to the next level we bought a triple black 2008 Saturn Sky. 5 speed stick, no turbo. That car has been rock solid. We live in south Mississippi and my wife and I had no issues driving the Sky to Cincinnati for a wedding and taking it to Tennessee and running the tail of the Dragon. We would not and could never do that with the Trans Am. We paid around $8k to a dealer for a 100,000 mile car. We love our Sky. It's a great little beach cruiser.

[@neilbrown82]

Damn you paid 8K for 100,000 mile car you could have paid a little bit more and got a car with half the miles

[@alanmoncus2331]

Picked up a 06 350z roadster @6yrs ago with 96k miles, and pretty clean for @11 grand. Plan on driving it till the wheels fall off (then bolting them back on and driving it some more, lol) replaced the top couple years back (ouch) but other than that, great car, but my daily is my old ford pickup :)

[@Pete-z6e]

Good choice ,and surprisingly good on fuel on a trip…bit thirsty round town.

[@alanmoncus2331]

@@Pete-z6e that's sure nuff the truth lol

[@quicksilver462]

Here in Florida, convertibles are for the late fall and winter time, a/c is required the rest of the year!

[@almostlastplace]

Don't forget the absolutely unpredictable summer rains lol

[@quicksilver462]

@@almostlastplace I look forward to those rains every afternoon!

[@MiataChannel]

This is one question where "Miata is always the answer" applies. I've owned every generation, and just bought my 6th one, and it's really hard to beat them as a reliable, fun summer car. The NC (specfically 2009-2015) variety is a better choice for people who need a bit more room, or want more power. The ND (2016-up) is fun, but your passengers will hate you if they are taller than 5'0".

[@TomahawkAssault]

I own a 2016 ND Miata and yes, tall people will not fit well in the passenger side very well, but I would certainly say anyone under 5'10" will be reasonably comfortable unless they are overweight. My wife is 5'7" and loves riding around in the Miata and has remarked about how comfortable it is for its size and purpose. But yes, it is very hard to go wrong with a Miata. The only car I would trade my Miata for would simply be a newer ND2 Miata.

[@NikMitchell]

I am 5'11" and bought an NA on a lark for a decent price a while back. I was overly enamored with it at first, but once I had it all to myself, realized I could NOT find a good seating position. What would you say would be the MAX height for driver/passenger in these vehicles, NA-> ND?

[@MiataChannel]

@@TomahawkAssault I am 5'9" and 170 lbs and I hate sitting in the passenger seat of a ND. Sit in the passenger seat of a NC once and you'll see how much leg room is missing. There is a 6" thick subwoofer in the passenger footwell taking that space away.

[@schnuffelpuff3923]

If you can afford the small extra fee, then the Abarth 124 Spider is the way to go

[@kirkhilles523]

@@NikMitchell My 2001 (NB) was WAY too small for me at 6' even with foam removed from the seat. If I sat up straight and looked straight ahead, I was looking OVER the windshield LOL.

[@gregmayled]

It’s really worth trying a car for size yourself, because everyone’s proportions are completely different. I bought a 996 Turbo recently and couldn’t believe how cramped it was. I’m 6’4” but slim and I could barely operate the pedals and the steering wheel keeps rubbing my knees. Whereas many others my height fit fine.

[@vamosaltemacongabrielmende3965]

I agree with the VW cabrio. Have many friends spend crazy money trying to bring them back from the dead, and still had to junk them.

[@Berven-gf9jq]

For some reason, even before the video started, I knew witch 3 cars you would recommend people to buy. As a car detailer, and with several houndred cars under by belt, I totally agree. Those are great cars. When it comes to the Audi TT, I totally do not agree. I owned from 2013 until 2018, and had only one issue with it. The dynamo needed to be replaced. That was is. Greatest car I have ever had 🙂 Maybe I am just a lucky guy.

[@Monza62000]

i had three vw bugs an now have six corvairs,,,,they never overheated unless i loss a belt an thats very rare

[@CarCrazy12804]

I had a teal 03 miata it was fun but i live in upstate ny bought it from a car lot in florida and all i did was put new headlight fixtures and top. Winter storage cost me big money. Traded it for a 1999 lexus sc300 then sold that for money for my wedding

[@badopinionsrighthere]

I've always loved that generation MR2, I don't care that the purists don't like it (if anything that keeps prices reasonable). Also I had an NC miata automatic (the "worst" miata according to enthusiasts), and I loved it, it was a great cruiser. A lot more space inside compared to the NA and NB, I'd fully recommend checking one out if the first two models are too small for you. Also, if someone rags on your choice of car as the "wrong" one my favorite response: Are you volunteering to buy me a better one? They stop ragging on it after that

[@johndeluna774]

I've had 2 VW Buses, 1 VW and currently 1 1974 VW Superbeetle convertible. Engine Rebuilt, great top and I love it. Fix it yourself, cheap parts, good on gas, sweet basic fun... VW are also a good investment and learning curve...

[@jackpalczynski7884]

Even better than an NB Miata is a Mazdaspeed Miata. Yah, rare and expensive, but factory turbo and better suspension. On the up side of a regular Miata is that they are absolutely Legos and later and upgraded parts fit from engine, transmission, Limited slip rear end, they all just bolt together.

[@aaronhempy9906]

Lots of love for the VW group. Any well maintained cis car is super easy to repair.

[@jamiemorris5177]

I thought uk 🇬🇧 car prices had gone mad but the prices in the USA 🇺🇸 are on another level Would never pay anything like that for a car that old

[@Derek8487]

I wouldn't either . I can't even remember the last time I evan saw a Toyota MR2 .

[@melb6528]

Startting to drop now, sanity slowly returning but the used cat dealers are getting twitchy now in the UK,

[@jamiemorris5177]

@@Derek8487 last time I saw them for sale years ago they were £1000 to £1500 tops

[@jamiemorris5177]

@@melb6528 Yep prices are dropping but dealers don’t want to drop the price of their stock as the paid over the odds for them

[@seeburg10]

Scotty has been saying for years that used car prices are lower in the UK. From what I see parts and good mechanics are easier to find there as well.

[@Dozelton]

I’m sure you hear this a lot but you videos are therapeutic. Especially during tough times

[@jennalovecraftreeves9679]

His voice and way of speaking is very relaxing 😌

[@Dozelton]

@@jennalovecraftreeves9679 lol definitely a unique way of speaking. Extremely thorough and punctual

[@TheAlbinoblacksheep1]

I don’t know if I can agree with you on the Beetle. I’m not in to vintage cars but a couple years ago I got a volkswagen thing that had been sitting in a garage for 25 years, those have the same powertrain as the beetle. It needed a thousand bucks in parts but it was all fairly easy to do myself (a mediocre home mechanic).

[@NVRAMboi]

I believe that the Beetles (and probably The Thing as well) went to Fuel Injection around 1975(?) or so. I remember this as my older brother bought one brand new that ended up being troublesome.

[@TheAlbinoblacksheep1]

@@NVRAMboi i could definitely see the first generation of fuel injected engines being troublesome. Carburetors are annoying too but the good thing about old beetle carbs is they’re cheap and widely available, not even really worth it to try to rebuild. Just don’t let the e10 pump gas sit in it or you’ll be replacing them often…

[@iVolkswagen]

Wizard is just scared of carburetors.

[@84imreplica]

One of the most fun to drive cars I've owned was a 1990 Mazda Miata, with a 1990 Mustang 5.0 engine and transmission. That little monster Miata surprised a lot of people and the sound of that V8 was heavenly.

[@chefjefe68]

Thanks for the video Wizard. Good to see some VWs on the do not buy, and pleasantly surprised you didn't put a BMW Z3 or Z4 on your bad list. A dark horse for your buy list: Honda S2000.

[@burntnougat5341]

Wizard has a hate boner for BMWs

[@edkalsbeek1765]

Z3 5 speed transmission is smoother than Miata

[@theEdmundFitzgerald]

The single-vanos z3m is surprisingly reliable. Biggest complaint is the interior plastic, glovebox sag, and seat shift. As far as the drivetrain goes though, FANTASTIC.

[@1HeatWalk]

Wizard dislike the s2000

[@kennielsen3896]

Great video. High school, I had a '65 mustang 3 speed manual kept it 18 years, '76 VW bus, fun times with friends in college, '85 Jetta manual, '87 cabriolet manual, '91 MR2 turbo only came in manual...blast, '94 Honda accord yuck, '99 pathfinder ok, 2003 Boxster manual fun, 2008 Mini Cooper manual ok, 2016 Boxster 981 PDK, love it. (oh, also sometime in college briefly had Fiat 850 Spyder, very fun, but it broke down constantly then I couldn't deal with the electrical problems, but cool car.)

[@xXcashXx3]

I really want a c6 corvette especially for the summer

[@TheSpeedDemon64]

Me too, my favorite car is that one but a 2006 Z06.

[@barrywebber100]

Can't wait to see the 308 finally fixed and cruising with a very happy Mrs Wizard at the wheel! 🙂 Thanks for posting.

[@richroj]

Hi Mr. & Mrs. Wizard, I love your videos and always look forward to the next one 💯 Hey Mr. Wizard, I just did a CVT service on my 2015 ForesterXT ✌

[@cupajoe11]

I love my 2005 r230 sl600. It's a totally different animal then the R129. However, it of course has its own expensive "deferred maintenance" issues that can make you cry. Luckily, and I hope I don't jinx myself, all has been superb with mine!

[@speedybuilds2878]

Glad the BMW Z3 didn't make the do not buy list. Bought one last fall, and I love it.

[@edkalsbeek1765]

Z3 prices started to go up also in the last year

[@speedybuilds2878]

@@edkalsbeek1765 I used that to seal the deal with my wife. "But, it's an investment."

[@fboness368]

2004 Mazdaspeed Miata. Super reliable. Super fun to zip around town or carve twisty roads with. Longer drives however can be exhausting. More "practical" than an MR2. Summer driving convertibles is fun early morning or at dusk. Midday top down driving in a hot climate is brutal.

[@cayman9873]

The bmw Z4 can be a good choice as well. They just dont steer as well as a boxster. The miata has too much body roll and lack of turn in stability for me.. plus way too small

[@weegeemike]

My older retired neighbor has a early 2000s Z4 that he has driven daily for years, he absolutely loves it, despite several mechanical issues that he's had over the years. Puts a smile on my face every time I see him buzzing around in it with his golden lab.

[@bryanmiller2023]

The Miata body roll is easily fixed with a set of aftermarket sway bars. It's an inexpensive upgrade and pretty easy to install. The factory sway bars are super thin, not sure what they were thinking when they chose them during the design stage. Makes a huge difference.

[@danf4616]

We have a 2010 Miata. Really great, reliable and fun car. It has the retractable hard top so no fabric top hassles.

[@themechanic9226]

I know the Car Wizard doesn’t like BMW’s, but anyone looking for a car in this area would be remiss if they didn’t consider the BMW Z3. Inexpensive, handles great, bulletproof engines, parts are inexpensive because they are shared with high volume 3 series BMW’s, and they look great. I can’t believe a Boxster got the recommend in this list, the first time it breaks it will bankrupt the owner. I’ve owned a Z3 for 14 years and can count the number of times I’ve had to fix it on one hand, and when I did fix it, it didn’t cost much.

[@edkalsbeek1765]

He enjoys bashing them too much

[@mikey_likes_it_]

Same with z4 first gen

[@themechanic9226]

@@edkalsbeek1765 I can understand modern BMW bashing, I don’t think I would own any BMW made after 2004. The older ones though, are great machines.

[@themechanic9226]

@@mikey_likes_it_ agreed, but I could never stomach the Bangle styling. Not saying it’s bad, it’s just not my cup of tea. Having said that, Bangle styling has aged well, better than I thought it would, but I still prefer pre-Bangle BMW styling.

[@betterbeavailable]

Won't happen. Haters gonna hate.

[@brianselt291]

Speaking of VW’s…I had a Karmen Ghia that had to have 3 or 4 wooden clothes pins on the fuel line to use as heat sinks in the summers to keep the dreaded vapor lock from happening.

[@Strongholle]

K-Jetronics are reliable systems that are not that hard to work on once you wrap your head around them. Only thing you need to be super careful about is the center piston that distributes the fuel, which needs a super precise fit against it's cylinder. Other than that, rebuilding the whole thing is maybe 100-150$ in gaskets and less than a day's work, filter, pumps and accumulators can maybe get to 3-400$ for the whole kit, most probably much less and it's rare that everything fails. If it's sat it's probably just gaskets and cleaning the old gas from the distributor head, if it hasn't been tinkered with it should work perfectly with new gaskets without even messing with the settings.

[@barusu1300]

Was Car Wizard's attitude toward the Cabby soured by one terrible experience? Probably not, but I've owned my '86 for 26 years and it's still running reliably with regular maintenance. Probably because I never let it sit unused longer than 10 days, let alone 10 years.

[@Bbbuddy]

I had a lot of fun owning a 1930 Ford. Even though it’s carbureted, they were designed to run on crappy gas, and the gravity fuel feed system mitigates ethanol issues. Very simple and reliable, and parts are readily available (not that they are often needed). Had one for 20 years and it broke down only once (bad coil). Good if you don’t want to go faster than about 50 mph.

[@michaelconverse5127]

Yep-I drive my 1931 Ford a LOT. It’s fun and very reliable. I’d check the oil and drive it any distance in any weather without a worry.

[@ozarkliving7263]

My wife loves her 2008 Toyota Solara SLE with 40k miles. Not sporty, but a super reliable 4 seat convertible we can always count on.

[@md2k8]

Excellent decision.

[@robertstone9988]

If you can work on a Dixie Chopper lawn mower you can work on a old folks wagon beetle with the air-cooled motor. It is no more complicated than your basic lawn mower motor.

[@youtubedude3422]

Would love to see a summer/adventure SUV list

[@SpeedandShineTV]

Great information Wizard!

[@jeffzekas]

Folks are asking crazy prices for used Toyota MR2 same for used Miata. My son had a Boxster: the IMS bearing went out on it, told a new engine would cost $12,000-$15,000

[@RetroMotiveAdventures]

Yeah they have gone up in value exponentially people finally are realizing their value.

[@EtonieE25]

Great advice video Wizard 👍

[@mikerhyner1]

We have a 2004 vovlo C70. Great little convertible. Safe and reliable.

[@hellkitty1014]

Always loved those. I see plenty of those here in the New England area.

[@seeburg10]

I had a 2000 C70 convertible with the low pressure (higher HP) turbo and 5 speed stick. It was awesome but I drove it a couple miles at peak temperature after the radiator blew which eventually popped the head gasket. Wish I'd kept it and fixed it!

[@colinritchie1757]

As a 6ft 1in 250Lb Miata driver I know exactly what you mean Wizard = mine is a 3rd Gen NC but it's still a delight to drive

[@MH-fb5kr]

I cruise in 2003 Audi TT Quattro Roadster… plenty of power, fun to drive “fast” and no expensive problems. Always serviced per Audi schedule. Purchased used with 30K miles now @ 84K miles. Plan to drive it until ---- ? 😎

[@LvLdGhost]

Nothing Audi is reliable….

[@bumfluffmcregor3730]

@@LvLdGhost I've got one never broke in 100000 miles except service parts what's unreliable about that you talk out your arse you've never had one

[@bumfluffmcregor3730]

@@e90baby have u had one or are u just another bullshit talker honestly best car I've ever had

[@betterbeavailable]

Why would it be expensive to fix. Just basic VW parts. I think VAG is not paying Wizard enough mafia bribes so hence the bashing 😂

[@bumfluffmcregor3730]

I can't see the people replying to me I get a notification then when I click it I can't see any more comments you tube is weird

[@SilojensenDK]

Saab 900 OG turbo convertible. All time greatest car - period!

[@tmech455]

I currently own 7 cars with Bosch Jet-tronic or K-Jet-Tronic, and you're right, they don't like sitting. In recent years, though, it's become much easier to get parts for the fuel distributors .

[@kevinl6111]

I have 2002 Saab 9-3 convertible with 78k on the odometer that's had it's issues. It has plenty of power with a 2.0l turbocharged putting out about 205 hp with the automatic transmission with a average of 25MPG. Haven't had too may issues other than a leaky valve cover gasket and drooping headliner, but the rest seems to be good. I paid 3000 for it about a year ago and now I'm seeing them go for 5k to 10k with the same mileage. The previous owner did regular maintenance with the records to show it, which I think attributes to it's good condition. The original owner also paid 46K new in 2002 according to the paper work that was included, hear that Tyler! Thanks Car Wizard, great channel that's funny and informative !

[@laurat1129]

Hey, '99 9-3 CV here! Now I've seen teens w/ones like mine, makes me feel old. Like me, it does require work at this age, but almost new. Just got it S2 tuned, too, 5 spd MT fun. Since I'm not selling it, I had no idea the current values.

[@kevinl6111]

@@laurat1129 Had a 1978 Saab 99 back in the early 80's, wish I still had it. Had a Cal. State Hwy Patrolman buddy take it for a spin while living in Santa Cruz, he loved it! My 9-3 CV is a keeper and will be a money pit in time, but it's MY money pit! Ha! Very COOL cars and I do believe the value will rise because they aren't made anymore. Enjoy your Saab Laura!

[@laurat1129]

@@kevinl6111 When I say '99, oftentimes people think I mean the great 99! Anyway, this OG 9-3 has been mine since '02, bought in SoCal, great fun driving up/down the coast. Thanks, Kevin, and I hope you enjoy yours, too!

[@hotpuppy1]

You forgot PT Cruiser or 'New' Beetle in the DO NOT BUY segment. Mustangs CAN be good if found not beat to death. Parts are cheap and not too hard to fix.

[@md2k8]

The Chrysler PT Cruiser is a do not buy, but most of the Volkswagen New Beetle's are a buy.

[@16driver16]

The pt cruiser was fine until it got over 10 years old. The Volkswagen was bad brand new

[@11sfr]

The catch with the Mustang is any affordable convertible is going to look like it has a bad case of herpes, with all the paint blistering off the front of the aluminum hood. If you're OK with that, they're fine, and you can't see that from the driver's seat anyway

[@md2k8]

@@16driver16 Agreed

[@atx-cvpi_99]

The Chrysler Sebring is also a DO NOT BUY especially those that had the dreaded 2.7 V6 engine.

[@Flies2FLL]

A Boxster is an EXCELLENT choice. If the IMS bearing has not been addressed, buy the car and go ahead and have it replaced. Approximately 9% of M96 engines have had a bad issue with this bearing. The great part about the Boxster is that it will hold its value very well, far better than any Toyota so the money is well spent. Great video!

[@bloodybrit]

I am enjoying the heck out of driving my Honda Beat around Houston. Definitely not for everyone with 656cc and RHD, but I am a displaced Brit and it suits me fine.

[@paulbarrese6537]

Hey guys, i saw that your city was seeing tornados and just wanted to say i hope your all safe and sound. Ty again for the great videos.