If you are considering a convertible car, before committing yourself, you may want to consider if one will work well with your lifestyle. If this is going to be your primary transport, this is really important and convertible cars have a number of compromises that enable you to enjoy that open-top motoring experience. Here are some things to know when considering a convertible car.
Size
Convertibles tend to have much less actual passenger and storage space available than a similarly sized traditional car. With most cars offering 5 seats in a traditional layout, convertibles often only have 2 seats. If rear seats are fitted, they may be of smaller dimensions, suitable for occasional child transport, but not suitable for adults. Many convertibles store part or all of the roof structure in what would be the boot space. Some whilst the roof is up, allow the space to be used for storage, but before lowering the roof, you must ensure the boot is sufficiently empty for this to happen.
The storage that is available is generally not good at accommodating awkwardly shaped items. Even a foldable bike may prove too much. This heavily impacts the practicality of a convertible for a can do it all vehicle.
Security
Sadly, convertibles are not as secure as standard cars. Being soft-topped can leave them more prone to vandalism and damage. Items left inside tend to be less secure than in a hard-roofed car. Where you are able to park and the neighbourhood you live in may dictate if you are likely to have issues of this kind owning a convertible.
Some of these concerns over security can be reduced by opting for a folding hardtop model.
Running Costs
As convertibles tend to be of a sporting nature, it’s no surprise that their running costs tend to be higher too. Insurance too will be higher than that of a standard car. Whilst you enjoy open-air motoring, the drag created by your car is sadly higher than the smooth body of a modern car. This increased drag leads to poorer fuel consumption.
How often will you be able to use it with the roof down?
Owning a convertible and driving it with the roof up all the time is no fun. All the negatives of owning one come into play. It’s noisier inside, it’s smaller inside. So being able to benefit from the convertible side enough to make ownership fun shouldn’t be forgotten. Much of this boils down to the weather and seasons. But there will be times even in good weather where you don’t want to be blown to bits, and need to arrive looking fresh and not windswept.
Longer journeys
Convertible cars are noisier and more confined than standard cars. Though this may not be an issue on shorter journeys. Long motorway journeys may prove tiresome.
There are many factors influencing whether a convertible car would work for you. So make sure you are aware of the things to look out for and try one for an extended period before making your mind up.