Few driving experiences are more enjoyable than taking a sporty convertible out on the road on a beautiful, sunny day. If you’re considering a convertible, though, you should carefully weigh the pros and cons to determine if it’s the right car for you.
The important factors when considering a convertible include the overall cost, safety and practicality of the vehicle.
- Monthly payments – The lease payments on a convertible will usually be a little higher than the payments on a non-convertible version of the same model. However, that’s not always the case, especially if you find a favorable lease transfer arrangement.
- Insurance payments – The cost of insurance will usually be higher on a convertible, but not by much. If you get the right car insurance that takes into account the number of miles driven, any price difference will likely be insignificant.
- Fuel costs – Having the top down affects the aerodynamics of a convertible, and they’re usually heavier than their hardtop counterparts — the floor must be heavily reinforced to compensate for the lack of a roof, even though the roof itself may weigh less. These factors do hurt fuel efficiency, but not by much; expect a difference of about one mile per gallon.
- Safety – Contrary to what many people think, convertibles are usually rather safe. They would be more dangerous in a rollover accident, but their heavier floor and lighter top give them a lower center of gravity than any other vehicle type, meaning they’re the least likely to actually roll over.
- Climate – This is the most obvious factor to look at when considering a convertible. They can certainly be driven in the rain or icy weather with the top up, but having the top up defeats the purpose of a convertible. You can get more use out of a convertible in sunny climates, such as Florida or Southern California.
If you’re considering a convertible, consider leasing one through Swapalease.com. Our lease transfer process allows you to afford that convertible roadster of your dreams and easily trade out of the lease at any time.
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