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october/november 2008
47
Hard or soft?
Some convertibles have a fabric-style roof, others
have a steel roof. The main advantages of having
a hard roof is the reduction in outside noise and
feeling snug and secure on cold nights. Thankfully,
these days roofs on all convertibles go up and down
with the simple push of a button ­ with some cars
performing this function in less than 15 seconds.
Three can be a crowd
If a people mover can be described as a "selfless"
car, a convertible is a "selfish" car. They are available
with only enough room for two or four passengers.
I use the word 'room' very loosely and refer to the
number of legal passengers. While there is a good
amount of space for in the front for passengers,
most convertibles are a little squishy in the rear.
So, the best time for a convertible is either before
you have kids or after they have left home.
New on the wish list
The BMW 125i and Audi A3 Cabriolet went on sale
in Australia earlier this year. These cars feature the
latest style and technology from their makers. Both
offer the cloth option roof, no doubt to keep the
price of the car more affordable.
L
Melissa Pye is the founder and CEO of car site
www.hercar.com.au
Saab 9-3
Audi A3 Cabriolet
Peugeot 307 CC
Too cool for school
Audi A3 Cabriolet from $49,990
BMW 1 Series from $63,775
Peugeot 307 CC from $47,490
Renault Megane from $44,990
Saab 9-3 from $65,500
Volkswagen Eos from $47,990
Volvo C70 from $69,950
BMW 1 Series