This class features an interesting mix of hard-core performance models and more luxurious touring convertibles. Our Best Buys give you a little of both worlds. The Chevrolet Corvette is fast, comfortable, and reasonably affordable. Unlike previous models it doesn't beat you up with a hard ride, and it will cruise quietly at highway speeds. Our other Best Buy, the Mazda Miata, is a bare-bones roadster with few frills and average acceleration, but for weekend fun on a twisty back road it's hard to beat.
If you don't mind spending a few more bucks, we recommend you take a look at the BMW Z3 and Mercedes-Benz SLK. Both are two-seat convertibles. The BMW is more sporty and the Mercedes is more luxurious.
If you are interested in bang-for-the-buck our Budget Buys include the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang. At any given price or equipment level the Camaro is a faster car, but the Mustang might be a little more user-friendly as a daily driver.

The original ponycar has been a horse of many colors and styling changes since 1979, but underneath it's stayed basically the same. That will finally change for model-year 2003, when industry sources say a brand-new Mustang will ride in on a shortened version of the DEW98 platform that already supports the Lincoln LS and Jaguar S-Type sedans. This formula is also being used for the new retro-air 2001 Thunderbird, but Mustang will have an entirely different look, though traditional styling cues like the galloping-horse grille, triple taillamps and dummy side air scoops will continue. So, too, will coupe and convertible body styles and choice of V6 and V8 power in base and GT trim. A new Cobra version is reportedly part of the plan too, with horsepower rumored at least 350, and a 6-speed manual gearbox may replace today's 5-speed as standard.
Speaking of Cobras, there are none for 2000. Why? Ford's SVT (Special Vehicle Team) operation was too busy fixing '99s so that they made their advertised 320 hp. Apparently, Ford got a bad batch of components that left the twincam V8s with somewhat less power than buyers paid for, creating a storm of protests. Of the 8500 Cobras built for '99, 6500 qualified for an "update kit" to restore the missing ponies, but retrofitting those left no time or resources for building 2000 models. SVT will resume Cobra production this fall for 2001.