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Open-letter to all Moms: If I had the means, I'd buy you one of these sub-R700k convertibles

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Dear Moms,

Firstly, a happy Mother's Day to all of the strong and determined moms out there. Whether you're a biological parent doing the most or a guardian stepping up to the plate, your value and worth are immeasurable.

As the son of a single-mother, I know the input and sacrifices that go into raising a child. It's a difficult job, and sometimes you don't get enough credit. Whether single or with a partner, your importance to society's growth is immense. And a simple 'thank you' will never be enough.

But give us this fleeting moment, and let's dream together. Let's imagine that Utopian future where we, your children, are in a position to spoil you with that dream car. A convertible! Can you imagine waking up this morning and celebrate your contributions to life with your offspring dangling a key in your awakening face.

"Come on, Mom! Look what I got you!"

BMW 2 Series Convertible

BMW 2 Series Convertible. Image: PressClub / BMW

1. Mini Cooper Convertible - R479 192

Mom, I just knew that this would get your heart racing! It's a Mini Cooper, but the convertible. Don't tell me that 'it's a young person's car,' I know that. But you, Mom, have always been one to take up a challenge. Whether it's an adrenaline rush or just having fun, you are a focal point of any celebration.

The car's roof is made of cloth, so it doesn't take up that much space. And with the roof up or down, people will always notice my awesome and fun mom. And because you are so hip and in-tune with the times, this car makes sense because it has a fuel-efficient three-cylinder engine. It may only be a 1.5-litre, but the 100kW/220Nm will never suggest it.

And if you can get the automatic gearbox to sing your tune, the car will go from 0-100km/h in under nine seconds. Not too fast, but definitely not slow. And I bet you'll have a jol behind the wheel.

WATCH: Reinventing the pocket-rocket Mini Cooper S Convertible

Mini Cooper Convertible

Mini Cooper Convertible. Image: PressClub / Mini

2. Mazda MX-5 RF - R538 200

Bear with me, Mom. I know what you're thinking, but I can assure you it's not as bad as you might think. At first, it might seem as if entry and exit might be an issue because of how low the car is, but once you get the nick of it, you'll soon realise there is nothing to worry about.

See, the MX-5 is the best-selling roadster in the world. Yes, it might not sell in as many numbers as they used to, but they are still massive fun. A simple-yet-effective 2.0-litre engine sits in that long nose, and it sends its power to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox - all 118kW/200Nm of it.

It might not be a popular choice for the masses, but you will soon understand just how much fun this car is. I'm telling you, Ma, you're gonna thank me for this.

REVIEW: Did Mazda get the latest MX-5's formula wrong?

mazda,mx-5,mazda mx-5

Mazda MX-5 RF. Image: Warren Wilson

3. Audi A3 Cabriolet 40 TFSI - R635 910

Ma, everyone wants to drive a German car; for various reasons. And Audi makes some of the best cars in the world. You know this, I told you last week. But this car has four seats, a big boot, and a cloth roof to ease the process of putting it up or down.

The car is powered by a punchy 2.0-litre engine and the 140kW/320Nm it develops, is more than adequate for your daily needs. Going to the shop or taking a drive along the beach, you'll be so swept away by the moment that you won't even realise that you've been prodding alone for a few hours.

 You deserve nice things, Ma. Just take it. Please.

Audi A3 Cabriolet

Audi A3 Cabriolet. Image: QuickPic

4. Abarth 124 Spider - R659 672

I know you're not one for attention - especially the unwanted kind – but this is a car that'll show you are the coolest mom around! It's different and unique, just like you. It's not ordinary, just like you. It's special, just like you. This car is Italian, and anything from Italy is made with passion. And you, Mom, are passion personified.

This car is powered by a lively 1.4-litre turbocharged engine that sends 125kW and 240Nm to the rear wheels. And what's more, it is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox! Can you imagine how we'll struggle to keep your smiles at bay.

Don't fret too much about it, Mom. You'll be okay.

READ: Along came a Fiat Spider: Topless Abarth 124 arrives in SA

Abarth 124 Spider

Abarth 124 Spider. Image: QuickPic

5. BMW 2 Series 220i convertible - R666 244

Mom, there are few cars out there that have the style, presence, and class of a BMW. And though this might be the most affordable BMW has to offer, it is by no means devoid of the mentioned traits. What makes this car so special is that it has an involving driving characteristic, something you can relate to, given your involvement in what we do.

Every drive will be memorable, and you will come to enjoy the 135kW/270Nm the engine has to offer. And, as a side note, that eight-speed automatic gearbox is one of the smoothest on the market. That I can promise you.

Just promise me one thing: you'll come straight home after every drive. Please don't take on the open road without us!

BMW 2 Series Convertible

BMW 2 Series Convertible. Image: PressClub / BMW

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