Used car coupe-cabrio test

The supermini-sized coupé-cabriolet market was invented and solely occupied by the Peugeot 206 CC for six years – until the Vauxhall Tigra came on to the scene in 2004.

And the Luton firm’s offering was followed a year later by the Nissan Micra C+C. Now, this chic pairing are livening up the second-hand market, too, with prices from well below £8,000.

The formula is similar. Take a standard supermini, create a coupé shape and fold the metal roof. The Tigra plays it a little differently by disguising its Corsa underpinnings, at least on the outside, and as a result looks more attractive. But the Micra scores on practicality, with an extra pair of seats, even if the profile draws attention to the bulky rear with the top up.

Both roofs fold electronically in around 20 seconds, although the Micra is more impressive, as its mechanism is completed by a stylish panoramic glass top. This keeps the interior light and airy, even when it’s raining.

However, neither maker ironed out all the glitches with the folding mechanisms. Tigra owners often complain of jamming roofs and problems with the electric boot, while C+Cs are prone to leaking.

Of course, the pair weigh a little more than their supermini counterparts, too, thanks to the heavy folding roof components, although the two most popular engines in the ranges still offer enough zip to suit most buyers.

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The 90bhp 1.4 Tigra doesn’t feel that much slower than the 125bhp 1.8, while the 108bhp 1.6 in the Micra C+C very nearly matches Nissan’s 87bhp 1.4 for economy. Drivers who want the ultimate frugal CC should source a 61mpg Tigra diesel.

While both models offer a comfortable ride, the handling can’t quite compare with pure-bred roadsters, such as the Toyota MR2 or Mazda MX-5. Where these cars edge in front of rivals is on practicality – especially the Micra. Its boot measures a massive 457 litres with the roof up, and still has 255 litres when it’s down. The Tigra is also pretty good, with 320 and 159 litres respectively.

In terms of equipment, the Micra gets the nod, with the popular high-spec Essenza model coming with climate control, heated leather seats, a CD changer and keyless go. Even the lesser Sport has air-con; this was initially only an option on the Tigra. Of the two launch trims, Vauxhall’s Sport is more appealing for the silver ‘targa bar’ on the rear of the roof.

Proven mechanicals mean there are no serious reliability issues. So once you’ve checked the roof, there’s no easier way to catch the year’s final sun rays.

Vauxhall Tigra (2004 to date)

• Engine: 1.4-litre 4cyl, 90bhp
• Insurance group: 9
• Economy: 46.3mpg
• CO2 emissions: 146g/km
• Prices: From £7,000
• Why? One of the best-looking hard-top cabrios on the market, the frugal Tigra offers lots of credit crunch chic.

Nissan Micra C+C (2005-date)

• Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 108bhp
• Insurance group: 7
• Economy: 42.2mpg
• CO2 emissions: 159g/km
• Prices: From £7,700
• Why? Looks may divide opinion, but the C+C’s practicality and generous standard kit tally isn’t in question.