NEW YORK (Money Magazine) - Among my road rules: Anyone who loves cars must own at least one convertible before he dies. Even if he lives in Duluth.

That canon has become more sacrosanct in recent years.

Dispensations could once be granted considering the shortage of affordable ragtops -- and the surplus of the finicky English variety destined to collect more cobwebs than miles.

No more. Whether because of global warming or a similar effect on the public heart, convertibles are legion. They're safer, more practical and better built than before. And thanks to tighter-fitting softtops and the rise of retractable hardtops, winter hibernation is no longer a must.

Now don't even start with that "mid-life crisis" stuff. Chances are, all those AARP members began dreaming of a convertible around, oh, age 16 -- it's just that they're finally playing with more than Monopoly money. Why begrudge them the pleasure?

The truth is, no car, and certainly no SUV, can touch the romance and adventure of a convertible, the possibilities that open up the second you open that roof. With the alfresco driving season in full swing, we road-tested five of the latest models, from a $20,000 retro roadster to a Teutonic fantasy at nearly $134,000. Ready for sun on your face and wind in your hair?

You'll find these to be willing partners. To see our gallery of five cool new convertibles, click here.