Highlights of the Mini Cooper Convertible
The Mini Cooper Convertible is the most affordable convertible you can buy in India.
It has a flamboyant exterior design and a unique interior for 4 passengers.
The vehicle gets a 2-litre petrol engine available with a 7-speed automatic gearbox.
The car can attain from 0 to 100 km/h speed within 7.1 seconds.
Note:
All prices mentioned in this article are ex-showroom, Delhi.
The fuel efficiency/mileage for car models is as per the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
Also, read: Top 10 Sunroof Cars in India - Price, Spec, Mileage & More
Different types of convertible cars
Convertible vehicles are categorised based on their seating capacity, vehicle speed, and roof material. Here is an overview of each type.
By seating capacity
There are two kinds of convertible cars as per the seating capacity.
Two-seaters: These are typically sporty-looking two-seater cars with foldable roof-top.
Four-seaters: These convertible cars let you drive with three passengers: one next to the driver and two in the back row.
Also, read: Top coupe cars in India: Check price, specs and more
By speed
You can also divide convertible cars into two categories based on speed.
Cruisers: The convertibles in the cruiser category offer moderate speeds. So, you can enjoy the panoramic view on your journeys while driving.
Supercars: Convertible supercars are sports cars that feature a powerful engine. These are the cars that can attain triple-digit speed from a standstill within a few seconds.
By roof material
The material used to make the roof of a convertible also defines certain categories.
Retractable hardtop: These are self-storing hardtops used in certain convertible coupes. Such roofs operate electronically. Plus, they provide better protection against bad weather conditions than regular fabric-based roofs.
Fabric-based roof: Some convertible cars come with a textile-based roof. These are simpler versions of a retractable hardtop and can operate manually or electronically.
Pros of convertible cars
Here are the advantages of buying a convertible car.
Option to drive with the roof on or off depending on your mood or weather conditions.
An open roof increases the visibility of the surroundings while driving or parking the car.
A retractable roof also serves as a unique style factor and adds to the sporty appearance of a car.
Tall people get better headroom by opening the top, which isn’t possible in regular sports cars.
Cons of convertible cars
There are certain disadvantages associated with a convertible car.
The retractable top, especially a fabric-based roof, reduces the safety of a car.
An open-top allows all the surrounding traffic noises to bother you while driving.
Driving with an open-top exposes the interior of the car to natural elements such as sunlight, which can cause material degradation and colour fading over time.
Convertibles require storage for retractable roofs in the back of the car, which tends to reduce the boot space.
Things to consider when buying a convertible car in India
Yes, convertible cars look stylish, but your purchase decision should not be based on just aesthetics. You must also think about the following factors to choose the right model.
Soft-top vs hardtop
You must decide between a soft-top or hardtop. While soft tops are usually cost-friendly and lightweight, hardtops provide better protection and insulation to the car.
Manual vs automatic
It’s always better to control a retractable roof with a push of a button rather than adjusting it manually. Thus, most modern convertible cars come with an electronically controlled rooftop.
Used vs new
You may come across used models while searching for convertible cars to buy. While buying a used car can save you some money, it is unlikely to offer the latest accessories and technology of new convertibles.
Also, read: New Car vs Used Car - Which is Better to Purchase?
Is buying a convertible car a good idea in India?
Why not! India has a wide range of panoramic views you can enjoy while driving an open-top car. Also, you can keep the top covered with the roof wherever the weather or traffic doesn’t make open-top driving a good choice. Moreover, you must ask yourself these questions first.
Convertibles can be expensive, are you comfortable buying one?
Is driving an open-top a fun experience for you?
Do you go on road trips frequently?
If answers to these questions are positive, you can consider buying a convertible car.
Frequently asked questions