What is it that makes convertibles so attractive? Whether a lifestyle choice, fashion statement or a cure for a midlife crisis, they are not the most practical option for the average motorist. But practicality seems to take a back seat for the convertible convert.
In Europe, one would think that the highest ownership of convertibles would be in the southern Mediterranean, where year-round sunshine is taken for granted. However, according to HPI Valuations, a leading motor industry consultancy, there are more convertibles per head in Britain than any other European country, despite its generally wet and cold climate.
It's a similar surprise to see so many convertibles on the streets of Hong Kong. For a large part of the year, we either swelter in the heat and humidity or shiver in the cold. But autumn provides almost perfect weather for driving with wind in the hair and sun on the brow. Advances in folding-roof technology mean that noise levels and protection from the elements are far better than they used to be. However, there are still some negatives to consider.
First, while driving in town, the roadside air pollution index becomes all too real.
A convertible's ride and road holding are usually inferior because it lacks the rigidity that a fixed roof provides (think of how a biscuit tin flexes with the lid off).
Lastly, with the top down, boot and rear passenger space are compromised, sometimes severely.
Given the negatives, one wonders why anyone would buy a convertible. But, for some (this author included), the positives of top-down motoring outweigh all the negatives.