2008 Audi RS4 Cabriolet

This fabulous 420-hp, 4.2-liter direct-injection V-8 car is smooth and has a broad torque curve. It weighs 4100 pounds (120 pounds more than the sedan) and should sprint to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, 0.2 second slower and it costs 85,000 dollars.The convertible has aggressive good looks as well as diagonally connected shock absorbers that work extremely well. This shock arrangement produces a forgiving ride along with buttoned-down responses. However, the relaxed ride does come with some quivers and shivers felt through the steering wheel and chassis that are much more pronounced than those in the BMW 3 series.

Through twisty mountain roads, the RS 4 proves to be a worthy dance partner with oodles of grip, goof-proof handling that’s more neutral than expected for a car that carries almost 60 percent of its weight over the front wheels, strong brakes and pedals set up for heel-and-toeing. It’s true it can’t match the tenacious turn-in of Audi’s fabulous R8, which was also on hand for back-road and on-track abuse, but no one expected it to.The Cabriolet also features 35-series tires, 19-inch wheels and larger 14.4-inch front and 12.8-inch brake rotors, a six-speed manual transmission, and Quattro all-wheel drive.Audi claims it has no intention of switching to a folding hardtop convertible, as have many entries in the premium segment.

The steering of any RS4 is a revelation. The RS4s helm is better weighted and makes the car easier to place through fast corners.The slatted front bumper and polished metal windscreen surround help you identify it from other models in the range. Inside, you’ll find the usual high-quality trim, while on the centre console is a starter button for the car’s stand-out feature – its engine. The RS4 convertible is probably pitched towards a slightly more relaxed crowd.