CNN/Money: Summer scorchers: 1. Mini Cooper

Summer scorchers

Slicing the roof off was about the only way to improve the Mini -- and it worked. The topless version handles curves with the same ease as its hardtop sibling, although the 115-hp base model strains to go fast.

A better bet is the supercharged, 168-hp Cooper S for $3,450 more.

Other familiar Mini traits are terrific mileage, park-anywhere convenience and the best resale value of any small car. Drawbacks include a tots-only backseat and lousy rear visibility when the top is up. But while you're struggling to see past that plush fabric top, note that it is fully automatic and has heavy insulation, the kind usually found on $50,000 cars.