Car choice: Mercedes or Lexus: Which is the best affordable used premium coupe-convertible?

Cheryl Peters wants a coupe-convertible that is practical all year round - and above all classy. She has £5,000 to spend

(Lexus)

A car for the head

I think Cheryl would really enjoy life with a Lexus. Not only are they superbly built vehicles, Lexus have a fantastic reputation for reliability. So although they are not cheap to run, the return is quality and dependability. The SC model was their entry into the coupe convertible class and they cost over £50,000 when new. Depreciation has taken its toll and early examples are now very affordable. A good service history and the overall condition are the two priorities when choosing. We came across a 2002 example with 106,000 miles with a full service history at £5275.

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A car for the heart

A convertible coupe often has a complicated folding electric metal roof, and £5,000 is a modest amount to spend. So we have to find Cheryl the best examples possible. The Mercedes SLK was the first of this new breed of sports car and proved how popular the concept could be. The restyled examples from 2004 with the smaller a 1.8 Kompressor engine are cost effective to own and run. We found an ’04 model with a fresh MOT and full service history, complete with electric memory seats and special AMG alloy wheels. It would be perfect for Cheryl at £5,000.

If you would like James Ruppert to help with your car choice, email james@freecarmag.com. For more motoring views visit freecarmag.com