Question 1

Soft-top or hard-top cabrio: which is better?

Accepted Answer

A fabric soft top is lighter, folds quicker and takes up less boot space when lowered. A folding hard top gives a quieter, more secure cabin in winter, but its mechanism is more complex and costlier to repair.

Question 2

What should I check on a used cabrio's roof?

Accepted Answer

Open and close it several times and watch that it moves evenly and locks without help. Look for tears, worn seams and a scratched or yellowed rear window, then check the carpets and boot floor for damp, which points to failed seals or blocked drains.

Question 3

Does a cabrio pay more IUC in Portugal?

Accepted Answer

No, the IUC does not depend on body style. It is calculated from engine size and, for cars registered since July 2007, CO2 emissions, so a cabrio pays the same as a saloon with the same engine.

Question 4

What about a cabrio imported from elsewhere in Europe?

Accepted Answer

Many convertibles in Portugal arrive from northern Europe. Until it carries Portuguese plates, an imported car still owes ISV and must pass an inspection at an IPO centre, so confirm whether that has already been done and paid.

Used convertible cars in Portugal

Fiat 500e C Standard

Renault Mégane CC 1.6 dCi FLORIDE 265/1600

MINI Cabrio Cooper D

BMW 120 Coupé

Smart ForTwo Coupé

Audi A4 (A4)

Mazda MX-5

BMW 428 i xDrive Pack M Auto

Audi A4 Cabrio

Mazda MX-5