I’ve got a Chrysler that I love, so it seemed only reasonable to go out and see what Chrysler has available these days. The PT Cruiser hasn’t been made since 2009, so getting a new Cruiser isn’t even an option. Given that, the most likely contender is the 200 Convertible.

Good:

• It’s a convertible.
• The driver’s seat doesn’t pinch the way the Nissan 370 Z’s did.
• It not only has seats for four people, but four people can sit in them.
• The interior is somewhat nicer than the Mustang’s.
• Sirius Satellite radio and a good iPod/iPhone interface…but all of the premium packages seem to have that these days.
• It’s a convertible.
• It’s cheaper than the 370 Z by quite a lot.

But really, the only thing special about it is that it’s a convertible.

Bad:

• The seat is unpleasantly firm; though possibly that’s adjustable.
• The gas mileage isn’t any better than the 370 Z or Mustang, and probably worse than my Cruiser’s.
• It might have a little more power from a full stop than my Cruiser, but less than I’m looking for.
• My knees rested uncomfortably on the door and on the bottom corner of the instrument panel.
• It’s nothing special to look at.

Conclusion:

I prefer the Chrysler 200 Convertible to the Mustang. It beats the Nissan 370 Z on seating and price; the 370 Z beats the 200 on looks, fun, and power. As far as comfort goes, the two are about equal; though if that pinchy driver’s seat on the 370 Z could be adjusted not to pinch, the 370 Z would win on comfort.

It’s close, but I’m going to give it to the 370 Z by a nose. So the ranking at this point is:

• Nissan 370 Z
• Chrysler 200 Convertible
• Ford Mustang

It’s only fair to say that David liked it; but David liked it mostly because it has a back seat he finds comfortable to sit in. Given that I’m willing to pick a car with no back seat at all, that only counts for so much.