WE Brits have become huge fans of cabriolets despite our dreadful weather. Sales of soft-tops in the UK have risen dramatically - some would say inexplicably - in recent years.
It seems that, when it comes to motoring, we are an optimistic bunch who will pay that little bit extra to enjoy the sun on our faces and the wind in our hair. Unfortunately, our crazy climes means we are more likely to be drenched by rain, hit by hailstones or be blown around by tornadoes - in the height of summer.
In fact, the chances of actually being able to enjoy topless motoring remain as slim as water companies telling us to get the hosepipes out because the reservoirs are full.
I had the new Audi A4 1.8T S line Cabriolet for a week while on holiday recently. And not once during those seven days was I able to flick the switch to have a look at any clear blue skies above.
I had planned a weekend escape for myself and the wife. The long drive in this stylish and very attractive car was pure enjoyment - despite the rain.
We settled back into the comfortable leather seats in the roomy cabin and the car drove like a dream with its slick five-speed gearbox and powerful, throaty, four-cylinder engine. It also provided exceptional handling through the most sensitive of power steering and stick-to-the-road, 16ins, alloy wheels.
Sunday - miracle of miracles - it was cloudy but not raining! We jumped into the car and I began putting the roof down - then immediately put it back up because it was far too cold.
On the drive back two thoughts struck me. First, this powerful car offers excellent fuel economy - I had not even had to top-up the tank yet. And, secondly, it had great windscreen washers.
So did it make any difference not being able to enjoy the real benefit of a cabriolet? Well, yes and no.
It would have been fantastic to have seen the car with the top down and the sun shining. But, as it was, the Audi A4 is still a very impressive car that you would happily drive around in winter, spring, autumn and even our summer.
My S-line upgrade came with the added extras of heated and electric front seats, rear parking alarm and an excellent CD auto-changer and BOSE sound system.
Last year the A4 cabriolet range attracted 7,000 UK buyers - significantly more than in any other country in the world. That says a lot about us barmy Brits - but more about the Audi A4.
FAST FACTS
Audi A4 1.8T S line Cabriolet
Price: £27,340
Mechanical: 163bhp, 1,781cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 140mph
0-62mph: 9.4 secs
Combined mpg: 32.5
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 206g/km.
BiK rating: 28%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 12yrs anti-rust