09 Nov 05
Audi A4 1.8T Cabriolet
When you want to feel good about yourself and your business, there is nothing better than the well-built A4. It has four proper seats, a neatly-folding canvas roof and a decent boot; there are also two diesel engines to choose from.
The BMW 3-Series is better to drive hard, Audi's smaller TT roadster still turns heads and the soft-top Chrysler PT Cruiser looks, er, different. Only the Mercedes CLK offers a similar proposition, but the Audi is probably better-built.
You look really good, in a classic way. Not flash, but as if you know how to invest your money wisely. The boss will be impressed.
Pricey to buy, and running costs are on the high side too - but that's the cost of quality. You can go for an entry-level 1.8T, which attracts 27% company tax, whilst the much more powerful V6 TDI is just 35%.
The A4 is no convertible compromise: it feels solid, safe and assured. In practical terms, it will seat four comfortably; there is a half-decent boot and a wonderfully efficient electric roof.
Road Test: Audi Cabriolet (02-)
