$7,500 · 2008 Convertible Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT V6

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder is a convertible that anyone would be willing to own. It boasts all the bells and whistles that make a great sports coupe. It is said that there is no such thing as a bad convertible as long as the sun is shining. Things only get better if one marries the folding roof with a 2+2 body, a rich exhaust and responsive engine. This is the description of a adventurist car that can fare equally well in less-than-sunny weather. The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder embodies the company's sporting heritage beautifully. As you'd expect from a thoroughbred roadster, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder comes with a 3.8-litre SOHC V6 engine that puts out 265 horsepower at 5,750 rpm. Paired with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission and front wheel drive, the Eclipse Spyder generates 262 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm. Thanks to such a setup, the Eclipse Spyder succeeds in doing what every roadster is meant to accomplish - imbue the car's occupants with the feeling they are going faster than they really are thanks to a precise engine and transmission combo. 0 to 100 kilometres an hour takes 6.8 seconds, which is more than plenty to justify the Spyder's reputation of a proper roadster. Handling is another aspect of the Eclipse Spyder in which it provides good reliability, as it hugs the road firmly, just like a roadster should. While the parts are all there - a multi-link and coil setup at the rear, MacPherson struts with a strut tower bar up front as well as stabilizer bars at both ends - you might be surprised to discover that the factory setup favours a comfortable cruise rather than sporty driving. As a result, the Spyder absorbs all road irregularities very well and that means you're in for a comfortable, yet exciting ride at the same time. The cabin is very accommodating and includes heated leather seats, as well as a 650-watt Rockford-Fosgate sound system with nine speakers.The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder offers everything you'd expect from a sport convertible, as well as a couple of things you wouldn't. Ample power and a soft comfortable ride mean you're able to both cruise on a sunny day or play around with the exhaust noises whenever you feel like it, making the Eclipse Spyder a great daily driver for all purposes.