If you long for that feeling of freedom you get while driving with the wind in your hair and the open road stretching out ahead, what could be better than a convertible? Let¿s take a closer look at the top convertibles available in 2011 to tempt you.
Audi 8 Spyder:
The R8 Spyder features a combination of aluminium and composite lightweight materials in both the body and chassis. But despite this the Spyder still weighs in at over 1,700 kg.
However, combined with the power of a direct injection, 5.2 litre V10 engine, you will almost believe you¿re riding a motoGP bike rather than driving a convertible, such is the astonishing performance.
Porsche Boxster Spyder:
The Porsche Spyder also uses lightweight materials such as magnesium and aluminium, although the doors are made from steel. Even so, overall weight is a minimal 1,275 kg, much lighter than the Audi competitor.
The roof, which Porsche fondly calls a sunsail, weighs in at just 6 kg, but it is a bit of a disappointment and not easy to work into place. However, the performance from the 3.4-litre flat six, boxer engine delivering 320 bhp is amazing.
Mazda MX-5 Miata:
The Mazda MX-5 has been around for several years and the latest version continues the tradition of an affordable, fun to drive roadster.
Although it has a smaller engine than most of its competitors, with a four cylinder 2.0-litre power plant, it still puts out a convincing 147 bhp. Couple this with the overall weight of the soft-top convertible of 1,134 kg and you get great seat-of-the-pants style handling and a zippy performance.
So, whether it¿s American muscle car, economical Japanese roadster or European classic convertible, your choice is plenty.
