Most of you will be aware that the best time to buy a convertible is at the end of summer. Values plummet as the weatherman predicts an impending ice age and the days become so short you begin to seriously consider the risks of Vitamin D deficiency. But despite taking my Subaru Impreza off the road for the winter I’ve only seen the roads gritted twice, both times not so much as a flake fell from the heavens. This unseasonable weather seems to be showing no sign of breaking just yet.

All this means there has never been a better time to think long-term and splash the cash on something tasty for the summer. You’ll still have time to carry out any work before the hot weather arrives, and in the mean time you have a soft top for early morning Sunday blasts (albeit with the heating set to ‘Scorching’).

Of the cars on offer at this time of year I’d recommend perennial journalist’s favourite, the Mazda MX-5. For reasons unfathomable to enthusiasts’ prices seem to be at rock bottom and have been for a number of years. As it has aged it’s become less and less popular, repeated redesigns and plentiful imports helping to keep values low. And being in production since 1989 means there are thousands available for sale to suit any budget. The pick of the bunch for the classic enthusiast is undoubtedly the first generation ‘NA’ model, which was in production from 1989 to 1998. Early cars will be suffering the effects of the English climate, but later 1996-1998 models should be in good nick; make sure its rust-free and you wont go far wrong. Mazda brought out more special editions than Cliff Richard has hit singles, but the best is the Eunos Roadster VR-Special. It was fitted with TORSEN limited slip differential, has a breathed-on 1.8-litre engine from the Sport models, and will hold its value better than most. 133bhp of bomb proof reliability, for under a grand if you’re lucky. Buy it, enjoy it, sell it on.

Here’s to the Summer!

Greg MacLeman,

Staff Writer