I decided to give myself a gift after college graduation... a fun car that I would always remember as the car of my youth. I looked at convertibles mainly, and settled on either a used mustang or a new Beetle Convertible, both around $26k at the time. I wound up picking the Beetle and I have NEVER regretted that decision! Why, you ask?

1) ATTENTION!
The design, and the color I chose (orange) always make me a hit wherever I go in my bug. I got the convertible right when the model came out, and I swear to you little old ladies and men would come up to me and tell me their stories about their bug back in the 60s... it was crazy, I never got over it. Four years later, the car is still a site to behold! I will probably never have another car like this in my life as my responsibility grows, but for now its perfect.

2) DEPENDABILITY
My little bug has never had a problem. I have never gotten a flat tire, engine stalled, or anything like that. To boot, it drives quite well in the snow!

3) INTERIOR SPACE
The bug is surprisingly large inside due to the expansive dash and the dome shape. When you are inside you do not feel like you are in a normal convertible (mustang) all cramped etc. It is roomy and you forget that you are not in a hard top when the top is up.

4) FLEXIBILITY
There is nothing better than being able to put up or take down the top on the road. I would never ever get a manual convertible..... rainstorms can happen at any time, believe me! Also, you would never think of this, but actually the convertible top is a huge feature when you are considering moving yourself or a large piece of furniture or bike etc. Just put the top down and load in your extra large item! I carry my bike in the backseat all the time.... convertibles can indeed be large!

5) COMPACT SIZE
The bug is so small that it is so easy to parallel park, which I do frequently. Also, it is very fuel efficient - a key consideration for those of us on a budget!

Don't be fooled, there are a few huge cons, mainly:
-extremely small trunk
-minimal interior lighting (due to soft top) so its hard to see maps or items at night in the cabin.
-i would not call the seats that comfortable
-the driving experience is not smooth like a luxury car, but it gets you there (in style!)


In summary, if you are looking for an eye-catching, fun, carefree car and are willing to sacrifice a bit on comfort or little luxuries, the Beetle Convertible is the way to go!
Amount Paid (US$): 27000
Condition: New
Model Year: 2003
Model and Options: Convertible