CONVERTIBLES have a habit of creating their own cult following.
From the charismatic Caterham Seven to the mainstream Mazda MX 5 and onto the majestic Mercedes-Benz SL series, there are devout drivers who would not dream of choosing another car.
There are precious few convertibles coming along to add to the choice if you discount the newer versions of established entrants, so you tend to sit up and take notice when it happens. You become even more critical than if it was a tin-top.
A good case in point is the Chrysler Crossfire Roadster, the open-topped non-identical twin of the Coupe. Despite what others might think, I believe the Crossfire is a very good modern coupe which smacks of style and delivers it with silken sophistication.
Now I have found something even better, the Crossfire Roadster.
Without losing the best of the Coupe's commendable points, the Roadster brings greater versatility and you can bet it will deliver stronger residual value as well in the years ahead.
Cutting off the roof of any car can produce unwanted vibration and scuttle-shake as the car's modified frame distorts over bumps, but the Crossfire is unflinching and there is not even a trace of shimmy in the rear view mirror.
With the fabric hood erect there is a blindspot, but it's comparable with that of the Coupe's sweeping roofline and you tend to adjust your driving to suit. The big door-mirrors help.
Electrically folding in a few seconds the roof drops out of sight and then provides an uninterrupted view to the rear quarters and back.
Powered windows mean you can brave the buffeting at speed or raise them to push the airflow over the top and out of your way.
With the hood erect it is a very snug cabin and there is no excessive wind noise from the seals.
The powertrain is a beautiful blend of engineering and execution, with a lot of available and effortless power delivered through a well chosen set of gear ratios which provide rapid acceleration and refined cruising ability.
The brakes and steering are similarly finely balanced between assistance and a good feedback so you can very precisely judge stopping distances and turning circles. The handbrake easily holds on steep slopes.
As you might expect, the Crossfire Roadster has a firm ride, but its very comfortable and the roadholding is inspiring and vice-free. I think that it helps when it is rear wheel drive, which gives a stronger feedback and balance.
I loved the well shaped and supporting seats with their good adjustment range. It's roomy for two and there is a lot of oddment space around as well, but the boot space is limited by the roof compartment.
All noise levels are low in the car, the most noticeable being the road rumbles from the big tyres. Mechanical and wind noises are very modest, even when the engine is being pushed towards its rev-limit.
The Crossfire Roadster styling is highly individual and may not be to everyone's taste, but personal choice is what has a particularly strong significance to any convertible driver and with comparatively few Crossfire Roadsters registered it has added appeal.
I think its only a matter of time before the Crossfire Roadster has a loyal fan club.
FAST FACTS
Chrysler Crossfire Roadster
Price: £27,995
Mechanical: 215bhp, 3,199cc, 6cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 6-spd manual gearbox.
Max speed: 155mph
0-62mph: 6.5 secs
Combined mpg: 27.2
Insurance group: 19
CO2 emissions: 256g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage; 7yrs anti-rust.