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Audi A4

Winner: Audi A4 Cabriolet, commended Saab 9-3 Convertible and MINI

“Folding metal roofs are all the rage in new car showrooms, but they still follow the traditional cycle of seasonal price changes on used forecourts. Demand for second-hand soft-top models is undiminished.” Jeff Paterson

The A4 continues to reign supreme among second-hand four-seater drop-tops. If anything, the decision to name it the victor for the third year running was made even easier, because CC-style convertibles are proving just as susceptible to the seasonal shift in values that afflicts traditional soft-tops.

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Judge Jeff Paterson said: “With the roof up, CC models look like ordinary coupés. But the people who buy these cars want other drivers to know they’ve made the choice to buy a cabrio, so canvas hoods are still popular.” As a result, having a fabric top won’t cause the A4 to lose out when you come to sell it. And, in the meantime, you get to enjoy all the benefits of a more compact cabriolet – such as additional space for rear passengers and a decent boot.

With the excellent saloon as its basis, the Audi has a head-start on rivals, while the broad engine line-up runs from a 1.8T petrol unit to a torquey 2.5-litre TDI turbodiesel. Last year, our judges were amazed by the prices which old models command, and that hasn’t changed. Even its 80-based predecessor continues to appeal, which indicates the current car would be a sound investment.

For the same reason, however, the Audi doesn’t come cheap in the first place, and a three-year-old example can set you back the same price as a new Peugeot 307 CC or Renault Mégane CC.

Nevertheless, the German car’s unrivalled image, fantastic build and handsome looks make it a compelling option that’s likely to hold its value well.

Commended: Saab 9-3 Convertible

2003 to present

Affordable four-seater cabrios are rare, and Saab’s 9-3 has been a well kept secret. Displacing the CC-style Renault Mégane in the Commended list this year, it’s not the stiffest or most refined cabrio, but the Saab has bags of style. Thanks to its traditional soft-top, there’s decent boot and rear space, while Vectors have climate-control and leather seats.

Commended: MINI

2004 to present

The charismatic MINI is in many ways a car without any direct rivals – a premium soft-top supermini with impressive handling and lively performance. Prices for early models are lower than ever before, too. However, it is as impractical as it’s always been, with a tiny 120-litre boot and cramped back seats. Rearward visibility is non-existent with the roof up, but at least the convertible comes with reverse parking sensors as standard.

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