There are literally hundreds of cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans on the market. With so many choices, it’s no wonder that shoppers have a hard time deciding which car to buy. However, when we started whittling down to find vehicles that met our test criteria, the result was a list of only seven.

Under initial consideration for this test were the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler Sebring, Ford Mustang, Jeep Wrangler, Mini Cooper, Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, and the Toyota Camry Solara. Since we wanted to focus on new or revised models, the geriatric Chrysler Sebring was nixed from the list. We also axed the dated 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, as a redesigned version will soon be following its coupe sibling over the horizon. And, while the Wrangler may technically be termed a convertible, there is little likelihood that it will be cross-shopped with these vehicles.

That left a final comparison of four – the Chrysler PT Cruiser convertible, Ford Mustang convertible, Mini Cooper convertible, and the Toyota Camry Solara convertible, all of which feature base prices under $30,000. Three of our testers exceeded the $30,000 threshold due to optional equipment, but cross a few unnecessary features off of the order sheet or opt for a less expensive trim, and the prices drop significantly.

2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT Convertible
In 2001, the Chrysler PT Cruiser was one of those cars perceived as so fresh and unique that people waited longer and paid more than they should have. It had hot-rod looks, yet offered a removable rear seat and decent gas mileage. The result was a car that was cool to look at and sensible to own. Eventually, however, the luster dulled as orders were filled and supply surpassed demand, and even the introduction of turbo power didn’t drive the masses back to the PT.

That’s a shame.

At $29,435, our PT Cruiser GT convertible wins the award for lowest as-tested price. In addition to a $590 destination charge, the sticker price included $250 for heated front seats, $200 for a six-disc CD changer, and $565 for Infinity speakers. Listed under the standard features column were front and side airbags, four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, traction control, leather seats, a power driver’s seat, fog lights, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

2005 Ford Mustang GT Convertible
For decades, the Ford Mustang has symbolized Americans’ youthful free spirit, represented the glory days of the domestic automotive industry, and served as the everlasting icon of muscle. From its phenomenal introduction in the mid 60s to its forgettable midlife crisis in the mid 70s, the Ford Mustang has stood the test of time. And for 2005, its design and style come full circle, reminding Ford what it’s like to have demand outstrip supply.

With an as-tested price of $34,080, our 2005 Ford Mustang GT Premium convertible was the most expensive vehicle in the comparison. On top of the $30,550 base price was tacked a $625 destination charge; a $1,295 Shaker 1000 audio system; $450 for the interior upgrade kit; a charge of $195 for machined 17-inch alloy wheels; $50 for wheel locks; $370 worth of side airbags; $255 for an active anti-theft system; a $115 convertible soft boot; and $175 for a red interior accent package. Among the standard amenities were four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, traction control, 17-inch alloy wheels, and leather seats.

2005 Mini Cooper S Convertible
Thanks to its tiny dimensions, bug-eyed face, and quick reflexes, drivers and observers alike usually smile at the thought of this diminutive member of the BMW family. Unmistakable on the road and irresistible from behind the wheel, the Mini Cooper has garnered much praise since being reintroduced in 2002 (after decades of absence in the U.S.).

After three years of success as a hardtop, Mini introduced the Cooper convertible earlier this year. Our tester was a 2005 Cooper S convertible with an as-tested price of $30,220 (including a $550 destination charge). With a base price of $24,900, our example came loaded with about $5,000 in options, including: dark silver metallic paint ($420); steering wheel-mounted controls ($250); Harmon-Kardon audio system ($550); automatic climate control ($300); interior Chrono package ($300); Combo #3 Cold Weather package ($300); Combo #2 Sport package ($1,350); and leather seats ($1,300). The Cold Weather package included heated washer jets, heated seats, and heated mirrors. The Sport package added stability control, fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels with run-flat performance tires, exterior stripes, and xenon high-intensity discharge headlights with washers. Standard features included four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, traction control, front and side airbags with head protection, a tire pressure monitor, and a rear parking monitor.

2005 Toyota Camry Solara SLE Convertible
Originally debuting as a hardtop for the 1999 model year, the two-door Toyota Camry Solara’s job has been to add a bit of sport and sex appeal to Toyota’s family car portfolio. With that in mind, the company offered its first drop top version of the Solara in 2000, and the 2004 model year ushered in the model’s first significant redesign.

Our 2005 Toyota Camry Solara SLE convertible came with an as-tested price of $32,349, including a $515 destination charge; a $1,350 navigation system; $650 for a stability control system; and a cargo mat set that added $184 to the sticker. Standard features on the SLE model include automatic climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, front and side airbags, four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, a 315-watt JBL sound system with six-disc CD changer, leather seats, and a tire pressure monitor.