Just because it has a 339bhp 4.2 litre V8 engine under the bonnet, don’t presume for a moment that the S4 Cabriolet is a sports car in disguise. It is as it appears: a stylish cruising car that just happens to be able to hit 62mph from rest in less than six seconds. Even so, it’s best to leave the V8 warbling rather than howling and appreciate its fine cabin, sturdy engineering and all those kerbside glances.

Audi A4 Cabriolet: The £42,980 S4 is the top of the convertible A4 range. The line-up starts with the £25,730 1.8 litre turbo version but the best compromise is the 3.2 litre V6 quattro at £32,480.