Letting in the Sun (Without the Compromises of a Ragtop)

Since the beginnings of the automobile, users have basked in the glory of riding with the top down, wind blowing in their hair and sun shining on their faces. As automotive technology has improved, thicker tops and better insulation have allowed people to have their convertibles without being manhandled by the elements. Now, almost every convertible in production has a power-operated top able to raise itself in the time you are sitting at a stoplight. Yet some have never been satisfied with the noise, and at times, the garish look soft-tops create when up. But now, you can have your cake and eat it too. With the recent boom in interest in hardtop convertibles, manufacturers have been rushing to market a slew of models.

When Mercedes-Benz introduced its SLK roadster in 1998 (2006 model pictured), people were fascinated watching the coupe-like body disintegrate into a beautiful roadster in just seconds. The car was a huge hit, even though it was not as sporty as many enthusiasts would have liked. Since then, Mercedes has been the leader in this technology, which it has now implemented in its SL roadster as well as the SLK. But many have followed suit and introduced this technology to all rungs of the financial ladder. A couple years ago, Cadillac decided to go head to head with M-B with its XLR roadster powered by a 4.2L Northstar V8. While its hardtop was equal to the SL's, the quality of the materials kept it from being competitive.

Now, for the 2007 model year, 3 new cars are being revealed to bring the folding hardtop technology to the middle-class man. Volvo has recently released its C70 convertible. For many years, Volvo competed in this segment with the previous gen C70, which offered a choice of coupe or convertible but was never seen as a good vehicle. Now, Volvo has revamped the lineup with one car, the 4-seater C70 with a 3-piece hardtop that easily folds into its compartment behind the seats. When up, it provides a coupe-like driving experience with a supple ride making this a great cruiser. And with the top down, you will be the envy of many with the classic great look of many of the new Volvos. And the C70, with a base price of $38,710, will burn a considerably smaller hole in your pocket compared to the SL.

But if that price is still a bit too steep, Pontiac and VW will come to your rescue (although you might have to wait a few months for VW...they are in Germany). Pontiac's G6 has been a solid competitor in the midsize sedan market for a couple years now. Now, they are finally rolling out two spin-off models, the coupe and convertible. While the two might share almost every body panel and bit of engineering, the convertible has the advantage of being two cars at once. With the title of least expensive hardtop convertible on the market at $28,490, the G6 brings a lot to love. While it has never been regarded as a sporty car, the G6 has wonderful manners on the road with well-damped motions, and a soft ride that won't beat you up over expansion joints. This, in combination with the hardtop, makes for one of the best all seasons cruisers around for the price. But it will soon have some company.

For 2007, VW is introducing its Eos convertible. First unveiled as the Concept C, it received such wild reviews that VW decided to add it to its model line. While it will be a bit late to the party, the Eos will have a lot to offer when it goes on sale this September. The Eos is based on a chassis heavily derived from Passat and Rabbit (Golf) mechanicals but maintains a very unique ambiance with looks that combine the Rabbit with the Audi A4 convertible. But unlike the A4, the Eos has a retractable hardtop. But this hardtop isn't just any hardtop; it has 5 pieces, with a sunroof for those days you don't want the whole top down. Like any other VW, the interior is the best in the business with impeccable materials and fit and finish. Also, unlike the G6, the Eos retains usable trunk space even with the top down. And with its ability to carry 4 adults and a price only $130 more than the base G6, the Eos looks poised to overshadow the G6 despite its solid credentials.

So, with all these new choices coming on the market, which one is for you? While that decision is best made by you, I can help out. For your money, the Volkswagen Eos is the obvious choice. With its renowned 2.0L turbo I4 and optional DSG sequential tranny, it will propel you down the road with speed and style. But if I had the extra money, I would opt for the Volvo C70. Not only are its body panels arguably more stylish, the safety record of the Volvo name is very important, especially in a convertible. With all this new competition, many don't see the need to pay twice as much for an SL550. Now, enjoy your time in the sun and don't be relegated to driving a stopgap economy car for the winter.