Baby Boomers’ Top 10 Dream Cars

Officially defined as those born between 1946 and 1965 (for the math deficient, that means they’re between 46 and 64 years old), so-called Baby Boomers are ditching their SUVs and minivans in favor of flashier and more luxurious vehicles these days.

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“Many Baby Boomers are experiencing another phase in their life, the nest is empty and because they have reached a heightened income level giving them both time and financial freedom, they chose vehicles that provide them with a luxurious, safe feel and a youthful, sporty drive,” says Jesse Toprak, Vice President of Trends and Analysis at TrueCar.com.

So what are they buying? Plenty of convertibles, as it turns out–apparently they like the feel of the wind whipping across their receding hairlines. Based on TrueCar’s statistics, here is the top-10 list of vehicles from the 2009 and 2010 model years most favored by those of a certain age (prices cited are for 2011 model-year cars):

10. Chevrolet Corvette

MSRP: $49,045-$110,300

That 63.8 percent of all Corvettes are sold to Baby Boomers is a no-brainer. Most have probably lusted after the venerable ‘Vette since they were kids. This remains the quintessential American sports car, coming in coupe, convertible and removable-top versions, with assorted flavors of V8 muscle. The top ZR1 affords ultimate bragging rights, at least among Corvette enthusiasts.

9. Mercedes-Benz M-class

MSRP: $55,790

Aging hippies with money to spend need look no further that the “green” version of Mercedes’ plush-yet-rugged midsize SUV. Here, a gasoline engine teams with an electric motor/generator and a self-charging battery pack to boast respectable fuel economy. TrueCar.com says the automaker sells 64 percent of them to Baby Boomers.


8. Chevrolet Aveo

MSRP: $11,965-$15,365

Okay, so not all cars on this list are either luxury models or convertibles, and we’d hardly characterize the subcompact Aveo as anyone’s “dream car.” Still, empty nesters tapped out by paying for college tuition or making a late effort to sock away retirement savings bought 65.1 percent of Chevy’s smallest and least-expensive sedans and hatchbacks during 2009 and 2010. Small and underpowered, frugality is its prime virtue.

7. Volvo C70

MSRP: $39,950

Powered by a turbocharged five-cylinder engine, this compact retractable hardtop convertible delivers adequate – though far from overwhelming – performance. Still, that makes it passive-aggressive summer fun for Boomers, to whom 65.3 percent of C70’s are sold. 



6. Audi A5/S5 Cabriolet

MSRP: $42,450-$59,050

Based on the two-door version of the popular midsize Audi A4 sedan, this enticing convertible comes in quick and quicker versions, with 66.1 percent in the U.S. sold to those between 46 and 64 years old. There’s a choice of a peppy turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the A5, or a supercharged V6 under the hood of the S5 for maximum thrust.

5. Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

MSRP: $27,999-$32,599

The convertible version of Mitsubishi’s long-running Eclipse sports car has a 66.5 percent following among those on the verge of retirement. It remains a curvy looking alternative to retro-styled domestic-branded two-doors like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, and is reasonably priced to afford fun in the sun for those with only modest portfolios.


4. Land Rover LR2

MSRP: $35,700-$40,650

Land Rover’s smallest model is technically a crossover SUV, though it’s more off-road capable than most, thanks to a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. Powered by a V6 engine, it’s both fun and practical, and is the least-expensive way to buy into the brand, which is probably why Land Rover sells 67 percent of all LR2s to empty nesters.

3. Mercedes-Benz SL

MSRP:

$102,600-$198,750.

This two-seat roadster features a retractable metal roof for four-season fun. It’s as plush as an S-Class, albeit with a much-smaller cabin, and is more entertaining to drive with quicker handling. Power comes from either a base V8, quicker twin-turbo V8 or a truly fast twin-turbo V12, with lots of high-tech gadgetry available. Nearly 70 percent are sold to what we’re certain are among the most-affluent Baby Boomers.

2. BMW 6 Series Convertible

MSRP:

$90,500

With quick V8 power, sensational cornering abilities and understated good looks, 79.8 percent of all 6 Series Convertibles are sold to Boomers. There’s a small back seat, but it’s best thought of as a padded cargo shelf.

1. Porsche Boxster

MSRP: $48,100-$61,800

A low slung convertible that’s able to careen two passengers through the curves like few amusement-park thrill rides, TrueCar.com says Porsche is selling 84.2 percent of its two-seat Boxsters to Baby Boomers.

 

 
Full List: Baby Boomers’ Top 10 Dream Cars