Mazda MX-5

“The MX-5 is cheaper than the other cars on the shortlist, but you won’t feel short-changed once you get behind the wheel.” Dan Strong

Affordable and fun – that’s the winning combination which makes the Mazda MX-5 hard to beat. And so it proved again this year, as the little two-seater retained its title as the best second-hand roadster.

Our judges racked their brains to come up with an alternative, but the MX-5 is too good at too many things to be deposed. Early models are seriously cheap, and the arrival on used forecourts of the all-new model makes late cars more attractively priced, too. The cabin is not the most stylish and performance isn’t exactly rocketship fast, but when the sun’s out, there are few better cars to be driving at any price. Entertaining rear-wheel-drive handling, a great gearchange and responsive engines are the stars, while low running costs and excellent build quality mean the MX-5 won’t break the bank.

Entry-level 1.6-litre models have a modest 110bhp, but can still go from 0-60mph in 9.7 seconds. Purists will love the basic examples with steel wheels, although watch out for nasty aftermarket alloys. The faster 146bhp 1.8i shaves over a second off the benchmark
0-60mph dash and is more refined. Both motors feature the same simple folding roof, which is key to the little roadster’s appeal. It can be raised and lowered in seconds, so it’s easy to take advantage of even the shortest bright spell.

Mazda has recently announced improvements to its approved used car programme, so finding a decent example should be easier, too. But be warned that buying a drop-top in the spring is tricky, as dealers won’t haggle with summer coming.

Commended: Porsche Boxster

1996 to 2004

The first Boxsters can now be picked up for the same price as a new supermini. Find a good one, and you’ll be able to bask in fantastic build quality, awe-inspiring handling and peerless image. Routine maintenance can be costly, and early 2.5-litre models aren’t as good as the 2.7 cars. If you can stretch to a post-2002 version, you’ll get a glass rear screen instead of a plastic one.

Commended: Audi TT Roadster

1999 to 2007

The original TT Roadster pushed the Honda S2000 off the Commended list this year, thanks to its future-classic status and value. Expect to see more examples around as the new motor filters into showrooms this spring and owners replace their existing cars. However, our experts don’t predict a slide in values because, at this price, the TT has few direct rivals and the best examples will still be sought-after second-hand vehicles.