Raise the Roof
These models give you good reasons to drive around with the top down.
An Indian summer is a great excuse to invest in a performance
convertible. Two premium pop-tops that drive business cares away
are Audi's $55,720 S4 Cabriolet and Lexus' $63,500 SC 430,
while Chrysler debuts its $34,960 Crossfire Roadster. The S4 Cabriolet's classic architecture, V-8 engine and
all-wheel-drive add up to a comfortable ride. Twisty roads?
High-speed highways? This Audi's high rigidity, precise
steering, stability control system and exceptional crash protection
take road conditions in stride. The automatic top folds away at the
push of a button. The 4.2-liter engine has 340 horsepower whether
you buy the six-speed or optional automatic transmission. Inside,
leather bucket seats provide substantial side support. Features
include ABS and 12-way power seats. A navigation system, heated
seats and a garage door opener cost extra. The Lexus SC 430 includes all of the above, plus traction and
skid control. It focuses on luxury for those who prefer a leisurely
cruiser...with 300 horsepower from its 4.3-liter V-8 engine. For a
two-door that looks small on the outside, it's large on the
inside. The retractable roof is a hardtop that hides in a rear
niche. Sold only with a five-speed automatic transmission, the SC
430 has a speed-sensing steering system, ABS, automatic headlight
sensors, 10-way power seats, stability control and pre-wiring for a
cell phone. Content Continues Below
Chrysler's 2005 Crossfire Roadster is elegant, with muscular
shoulders and a retro boat-tail rear end. Its distinctive American
styling and Mercedes-Benz engine set it apart. While the top
requires a few more moves than the SC 430 and the S4, once the
canopy is released, it's powered down in 22 seconds or so. The
V-6 3.2-liter engine pumps out 215 horsepower. Features include a
garage door opener, an eight-way power driver's seat and ABS,
stability/traction control, tire pressure monitor, and sports roll
bars behind the front seats.
Editor and consultant Jill Amadio has been reporting on the
automotive industry for 25 years.
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