Best convertibles speedy and stylish

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Summer is coming to a close, but there are still plenty of balmy days to come. What better way to enjoy them than putting the top down?

That's right, putting the top down and hitting the open road is one way to enjoy the last bit of summer and the colorful days of fall. But how best to do that?

Picking the right vehicle is the key. You don't have to spend a ton of money to get a convertible. But let's suspend reality for a while and consider the best ones if you're not on a budget.

Here are eight convertible suggestions:

• BMW 3-series ($44,550-$66,500) — Many sports sedans are on the market, but there's only one that defines the genre: the 3-Series. Lowering the top only adds to the vehicle's charms. It's a track star, but its razor-sharp handling makes it rewarding to drive. It's available with a cloth top or retractable hardtop.

• Ford Mustang ($25,995-$51,325) — Whether mild (base trim, 210-horsepower V6 engine) or wild (Shelby GT500 trim, 500-horsepower V8), the drop-top Mustang says "summer" even when the flakes fly. Iconic design, a reasonable price and sporty handling make it an easy car to love. And one of four local Mustang clubs will welcome you.

• Jeep Wrangler ($20,710-$32,090) — Many sport utility vehicles will take you into the backwoods. Few, if any, can have their tops removed. The Jeep screams, "drive me on the sand," and you can do just that. The newest Jeeps are the most civilized, but they still possess a character that's rugged and unrefined, yet appealing.

• Lexus IS C ($31,845-$44,390) — The 2010 IS C hardtop convertible offers top-down motoring at a lower price than the two-seater SC 430 roadster. The four-seater has clever ideas, such as air conditioning that automatically adjusts for the outside temperature when the top is lowered. With rear-wheel drive, it's a hoot on the road.

• Mazda MX-5 ($21,750-$29,290) — Proving that a low price doesn't mean low on thrills, the MX-5, once known as the Miata, remains true to its mission as a fun, affordable, two-seat sports car. Many automakers have tried to copy it and gotten it wrong. It's simple: low price, four cylinders, two seats, six speeds, good looks and a top that drops.

• Mercedes-Benz SL ($98,500-$296,250) — Elegant and eloquent, the Mercedes-Benz SL class is the movie star of the roadster world. Posh, heavy, extravagantly fitted and boasting extraordinary power and handling, few cars have its allure. The hardtop's retractable roof provides year-round practicality. A car many dream of owning.

• Porsche Boxster ($46,600-$56,700) — Porsche's entry-level sports car lives for the track, which isn't surprising given that the marque grew up there. The car can bring out your inner Andretti, whether driving to the office or headed for a lazy weekend on the Outer Banks. Be sure to pack lightly as cargo space is meager. On the other hand, the driving fun is enormous.

• VW New Beetle Convertible ($25,990-$26,990) — Familiar but often overlooked, the VW New Beetle Convertible exudes the character lacking in VW's pricier Eos hardtop convertible. The 150-horsepower four-cylinder engine can be had only with a six-speed automatic transmission. Its iconic look is unique, something that can be said of few new rides.

If none of these strike your fancy or are simply too pricey, no worries. You don't have to spend the big bucks on a new car. There are plenty of nice used rides that will let you put the top down and get the wind in your hair.

But as with any used car purchase, do your homework and choose wisely.

Whether new or used, it's a great time of year to go topless.