Summertime? Convertible time!

At least: In moderation. We in the Netherlands still have to get used to the idea of ​​real summers. (And the idea that we will probably no longer experience Elfstedentocht.) We think open-minded and happy that people in regions where they have been used to beautiful summers for a long time, prefer to drive 'open'. We are confirmed in that idea by road movies and such festivities.

Close is better

But if you fiddle around in the Sunshine States, you will see that many Americans drive their 'convertibles' tightly during the day and with the air conditioning full on. It is not uncommon to put such a convertible 'in the heat of the day' with the engine running and blowing air-conditioning in front of the shopping mall, while the passengers with their full sized shopping cart do their shopping in the naturally air-conditioned shopping center.

The hood only goes down when the sun is very old-fashioned 'bending over'

Because open driving in the sun is more threatening than the Corona jitters. Burning, skin cancer, overheating, dehydration and a stiff neck ... Why wouldn't you be better and cheaper with a sedan?

That is because driving in a convertible or convertible simply gives a wonderful outdoor experience

And, said and kept quiet among us, strolling around in an open car, a classic open car is a pleasantly mild form of exhibitionism. See and be seen. Nice is not it? And against the drawbacks, dangers, enjoying all that? You can arm yourself against that. The range of 'contraceptives' in that corner is impressive. But some sunscreen, head protection for men who are also in the convertible corner in terms of hairstyle and a scarf are very clear examples of this.

But what about an open roof?

With our classics, that is quite one thing to pay attention to when purchasing. It is a multi-hinged mechanical skeleton. Equipped with a delicate covering of usually coated textile. If you look at all litter, you will see that plastic lasts a long time. But with convertible tops, the aging of the material can be dire. The most classic textile hoods are more consistent in their existence. With regular maintenance, they are most sensitive to the Stanley knives with which young, enterprising neo-liberal persons cut a square to check the contents of your glove compartment. But still, the hood requires and requires maintenance. That whole hood skeleton is also one thing that needs attention. First, it should tighten the hood nicely. But there should be no gaps on the hinges and the locking options must also be in order. For automatically opening and closing hoods, check that the mechanism does its job smoothly and tightly several times in a row. Repairs at that angle tend to be expensive. Also check whether the mechanism is properly secured. An extra heavy fuse can camouflage problems (for a short time).

With folding roofs, it is convenient to put the car away with the hood closed

That's better for the hood. Oh yes: a yellowed hood pane deserves replacement. If the hood is still okay, that's just an option. Otherwise it is time for a new hood. Those new caps come in prizes. And qualities. So only buy from a reputable supplier.

To see if the wind blows through your hair, or smoothly over your cap, you can always first rent a classic convertible. There are various providers of such beauty.