27401 Execute Die Cut Background Rm 85 Yr '02-'04 on 2040-parts.com

Build your Mini Cooper Hardtop

We suspect that your initial inclination upon the discovery of a new model's configurator is to throw gobs and gobs of equipment at a car to see just how high the price will go. After all, that's what we tend to do. It's especially satisfying with German automakers — notably Porsche and BMW — who seem to have turned option pricing into something bordering on absurdist theatre.

Convertible prices down – time to buy

Now is the best time to buy a convertible Traditionally, the end of the year has seen a big drop in the price of convertibles. Conversely, the Spring always sees a price rise. Which in the past always made sense. After all, who wants to be driving round in a drafty, cold soft-top when winter bites?

We Preview the Grand National Roadster Show

Every year at the Grand National Roadster Show you'll find one guy who gripes about all the multi-million-dollar cars entered in the show's premier competition category, the dozen open-topped two-seaters competing for the prestigious title of America's Most Beautiful Roadster. Well somebody find that guy and bring him by because this year there's only one – count it, one - Chip Foose-designed, Troy Trepanier-built entry. The rest are built by regular guys just like you and me.