Used Italian cabriolets: our selection from 5,000 to 130,000 euros to make the most of spring

While convertibles are becoming increasingly rare in automakers' product ranges, the return of fine weather is a reminder of the unique pleasure of driving with your hair blowing in the wind. The market has shrunk considerably in recent years, but the advantage lies elsewhere: on the used market, there are still some great opportunities.

From small, accessible roadsters to large, luxurious GTs, the Italian automotive industry offers a number of models that let you enjoy the sun and the sound of an engine, without necessarily spending a fortune. From €5,000 to over €100,000, from four-cylinder to V8, here are a few Italian convertibles that clearly deserve your attention.

Alfa Romeo Spider (939): a modern, affordable convertible

Launched in 2006, the’Alfa Romeo The 939-generation Spider remains a surprisingly contemporary convertible. Its Pininfarina design has hardly aged, and continues to attract attention almost twenty years after its launch.

This is a pure two-seater with front-wheel drive, designed more as a versatile convertible than a true sports car. On the road, it favors comfort and cruising rather than pure efficiency, but it's still very pleasant to drive, especially on secondary roads.

One of the Spider's strengths is the diversity of its powertrains. There are diesel versions, four-cylinder petrols and even a V6. At the time of its launch, this V6, of Holden (General Motors) rather than Italian origin, was rather shunned. Today, paradoxically, it has become the most sought-after model on the second-hand market.

However, the 2.2 JTS engine is undoubtedly the most balanced choice. Lighter, with a pleasant sound, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just over 8 seconds, which is more than enough time to enjoy the cabriolet. Even rarer, the 200 hp 1.7 TBi engine, also found in the Alfa Romeo 4C, is available on certain models.

In terms of price, these Spiders have obviously gained in mileage. Most of them now exceed 100,000 km. Expect to pay between €10,000 and €15,000 for a high-mileage model, and more than €15,000 for one with less than 100,000 km.

Fiat 124 Spider: lightness and propulsion

It's a model that's sometimes forgotten, yet particularly interesting. The modern Fiat 124 Spider shares its platform with the Mazda MX-5, which is already an excellent basis for a roadster.

Under the hood is the 140 hp 1.4 MultiAir engine, a Fiat four-cylinder renowned for its reliability. It's light, simple and very pleasant to drive. Above all, unlike the Alfa Romeo Spider mentioned above, this is a rear-wheel drive.

Today, some models have already exceeded 200,000 km, proof that the model can handle the miles. On the second-hand market, the price remains relatively solid. You can expect to pay around €15,000 for a model with 150,000 km, around €20,000 for a model with close to 100,000 km, and between €25,000 and €30,000 for models with the lowest mileage.

For those looking for a modern, reliable and fun-to-drive convertible, the Fiat 124 Spider is clearly an option to consider.

Maserati GranCabrio V8: Italian grand touring

It's hard to talk about Italian convertibles without mentioning the Maserati GranCabrio. Here, we're clearly moving up a category. This model embodies Italian grand touring, with four real seats, rear-wheel drive and, above all, a Ferrari-sourced V8 under the hood.

This naturally-aspirated engine develops 440 hp, more than enough to make the most of open-top cruising. But it's important to remember that this is first and foremost a grand tourer. It's not a car made for the track, but for swallowing up the miles with elegance and an exceptional soundtrack.

On the second-hand market, the price range is wide. Models with more than 150,000 km can be found for around €40,000, while the latest models with the lowest mileage can fetch up to €130,000. In our opinion, the most interesting models are often around €50,000 to €60,000.

The question of reliability often comes up when Maserati is mentioned. However, the V8 is generally very robust, provided that maintenance is carried out correctly. The gearbox is the one to watch. There are two options: the ZF automatic transmission, which is smoother and requires less maintenance, and the F1 robotized gearbox, which is rougher and requires more attention.

This doesn't mean it's unreliable, but its clutch wears out more quickly, much like tires or brakes. Before buying, it's always advisable to ask an Italian car specialist about maintenance costs.

Fiat Barchetta: pleasure at a low price

If you're on a tighter budget, the Fiat Barchetta is clearly worth a look. This little convertible from the 1990s is starting to appreciate in value, and could well become a real collector's item in the years to come.

With around a ton on the scales and a lively petrol engine, the Barchetta is a lot of fun to drive. It offers a simple, straightforward experience, exactly what you'd expect from a small Italian roadster.

One of its great advantages is its price. They can be found for between €5,000 and €10,000, making them one of the most affordable entrances to the world of Italian convertibles.

The main thing to watch out for is corrosion. On the cheapest models, and sometimes even on the others, it's imperative to check the condition of the bodywork and make sure there's no significant rust. But if the car is sound, it's an excellent budget car.

Alfa Romeo Spider Coda Tronca: the charm of the collection

For those wishing to enter the world of classic cars, the Alfa Romeo Spider Coda Tronca is a particularly attractive choice.

This model is part of a mythical lineage: the Alfa Romeo Spider has gone through four main generations, and the so-called «Coda Tronca» version, recognizable by its truncated rear end, is often considered one of the most balanced.

With its timeless styling and enormous goodwill, this convertible is always an eye-catcher. Under the hood, several engines have been offered over the years: 1.3, 1.6, 1.75 and 2.0 liters.

On the second-hand market, prices vary widely depending on the condition and authenticity of the vehicle. Before buying, it's essential to find out about the model's history: original engine, original paintwork, maintenance, possible rust or interior condition.

Interesting examples can usually be found from €20,000 upwards. Beyond that, prices often reflect better overall condition, healthier bodywork or a completely original configuration. In the end, it all depends on what you're looking for: a model «in its prime» to enjoy the car, or one that's close to concours condition.