Tops off for summer

WITH summer now here, many a driver's thoughts turn to the joys of open-top motoring. Traditionally, soft-top values have soared with the temperature but fallen dramatically in winter. Not any more: thanks to warm interiors, good hoods and air conditioning, prices remain largely unaffected by the weather.

Valuation specialist CAP recently told dealers: "Soft-tops are no longer a summer-only car. The weatherproofing makes them practical in the winter as well, although it is when the sun starts to shine that customer desire really starts to increase." CAP says even in the height of summer, prices won't rise by more than a few hundred pounds, so it should not be expensive to buy a soft-top now.

When looking at a used cabrio, check the hood thoroughly. A worn or torn outer cover is expensive to repair. For instance, on a Saab 900/9-3 it costs a reasonable 329, yet on an Audi Cabriolet, dealers quote a staggering 2,400; so get a quote before deciding. You can opt for cheaper aftermarket hoods but these devalue the car significantly.

Cars with power hoods are particularly popular, and enjoy higher residual value over those with manual hoods. However, power hoods must work properly or big bills beckon.

Like air conditioning, problems arise because of a lack of use, or damage caused by inept folding and unfolding.

The biggest enemy for a convertible is folding the hood when wet because this allows water to become trapped, causing condensation. In time, the hood material becomes brittle. If you buy a convertible do not use car washes and high-powered water jet guns and check for dampness, soaked carpets and a musty smell. This indicates a leaking hood and can lead to problems.

Modern convertibles can be snug in winter and just as convenient to live with as a saloon. You run the risk of attracting knife- wielding vandals, and such cars are likely to be more expensive to insure, but if you enjoy fun in the sun, you can shop for one now.

Top soft-top buys

Up to 5,000

Rover 214, N-reg, 54,000 miles, 4,500, private. Stylish, well- trimmed and benefits from 105 road tax.

Peugeot 205 CTi, L-reg, 70,000 miles, 3,750, private.

Great fun, 1.4 Junior is best for younger buyers. Vet well.

Up to 10,000

Audi Cabriolet 2.3E, L-reg, 70,000 miles, 9,750, dealer.

Classy looking but a bit dated.

Peugeot 306, P-reg, 49,000 miles, 10,000, dealer. Fine value, excellent to drive and a practical family car.

Renault Megane 11..66ee, S-reg, 32,000 miles, 9,975, dealer.

Top seller, good image, safety and driver appeal; but needs power hood option.

Up to 15,000

BMW 320I, P-reg, 53,000 miles, 15,000, BMW specialist.

Lottery-winner looks and image, drives sweetly, needs service history.

Saab 9-3 2.0i SE, R-reg, 37,000 miles, 15,000, main dealer. Sexy looks, sober drive and nicely made, but convertible body could be stiffer.

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