THE first mass production car to have a folding metal roof was the first Mercedes SLK back in 1996 and I remember how much I enjoyed driving it on Spanish mountain roads.

That first model lasted until 2004 when it was replaced by a much sleeker, sharper-nosed design.

The only drawback with all of them is that the roof folds down into the boot, and drastically cuts luggage space - but it's true of all such cars.

Originally, only a rather rough 2.3-litre supercharged four with 190bhp was available, but later 2.0-litre 163bhp and 3.2 V6 218bhp units were added. After 2004 came supercharged 1.8 and normally aspirated 3.5 and 5.4-litre engines.

Power goes to the rear wheels through a five or six speed automatic gearbox, and  performance is effortless.

Never buy without the proper service history - always very important with any prestige car.

Handling balance is excellent, road-holding always safe and sure and ride superb. And of course, that metal roof means that its as quiet as a saloon and just as secure.

The roof is quick up and down, and most models have added equipment on top of the standard spec.

: BMW Z3/Z4, Audi TT