Driven
DRIVEN
Words by Jim Gorzelany
Curvaceous Convertibles
Summer heralds the arrival of convertible season, and fortunately you don’t have to bust your budget to get behind the wheel. Here’s a quick rundown on the latest in big-sky en joyment.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
This modern-day version of the classic European roadster is reborn for 2006 with sleeker styling, but it remains true to its roots as a reasonably simple, peppy and nimble rear-drive sports car. A new lightweight 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generates a pleasing 170 horsepower, and a fi ve-speed manual comes as standard, while an available short-throw six-speed manual provides more precise gear changes. Though it’s more of a kick with a stick, an optional six-speed automatic can be run through the gears manually via steering-wheel paddle shifters. A revised chassis and suspension system provide precise handling, and side-impact airbags are newly included for added safety. A removable hard top is available for winter-weather use. MSRP: $21,435.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
Offering aerodynamic styling with a wide rear fender treatment and high back deck, this all-new convertible version of the front-drive Eclipse sports coupe debuts in 2006. The base GS model comes with a 2.4-liter I-4 engine that nets 162 horsepower, while the GT model’s 3.8-liter V-6 generates a substantial 263 horses. The I-4 can be mated to either a fi ve-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode, while the GT offers the choice of a six-speed manual or fi ve-speed automatic. Side and side-curtain airbags are standard; options include aluminum foot pedals and a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system. MSRP: $25,389.
Volvo C70
Thanks to its power-operated three-piece retractable hard top, Volvo’s C70 is arguably one of the most hospitable convertibles come fair—or foul—weather. The roof folds into the trunk at the push of a button and provides greater sound insulation and protection from the elements than does a cloth top. A
2.5-liter turbo-charged inline fi ve-cylinder engine generates a lively 218 horses and drives the front wheels via a standard six-speed manual transmission (alternatively, a fi ve-speed automatic with manual shift override is available). Volvo’s Dynamic Stability and Traction Control system is standard and boasts added protection on slippery surfaces and in extreme handling situations. MSRP: $38,710.
Saturn Sky
Saturn’s first-ever convertible, the two-seat Sky roadster comes wrapped in beautifully crafted bodywork that refl ects the automaker’s latest styling direction. Its fabric roof folds neatly under a clamshell cover to provide a seamless top-down look. A 2.4-liter, dual-overhead cam, four-cylinder engine resides under its reverse-opening clamshell hood and produces a robust 177 horsepower. It’s mated to a close-ratio fi ve-speed manual transmission, with a fi ve-speed automatic gearbox also offered. An inherently wide stance and a fully independent suspension help the rear-drive Sky deliver slot-car-like maneuverability. A limited slip differential is available to help maximize traction, especially on slick surfaces. MSRP: $23,690.