THE stylish Volvo C70 now has a folding metal roof but the original model came as coupe or soft top.

They have svelte lines and an up-market interior to match, and the convertible has an electric roof which only takes a few seconds to put up or down.

With it down, there is a wind diffuser which helps make the cabin a warm cocoon even on quite cold days.

Both have excellent safety in the Volvo tradition, with umpteen airbags, an anti-whiplash system and anti-submarining seats.

The body is immensely strong and built to protect the occupants in any serious accident by channelling damage away from the passenger compartment.

Engines are all five cylinder units starting with a 163bhp 2.0-litre. Next up is a 2.4-litre with 170 or 193bhp and at the top of the range comes the tarmac scorching T5 turbo, with 240.

Gearboxes are five speed manual or sought after five speed automatic. These are worth around £5-800 more.

Manuals have light clutch and easy gearchange and all have good power steering and superb brakes.

These Volvos are more grand tourers than sports cars so they are capable of long journeys in comfort. Most come with the luxury of leather upholstery.

: BMW 3-Series