Goodness, this first generation Toyota Celica has got it all going on. It’s one of a number of Japanese models to be graced with a vinyl roof, including the Datsun 240Z, Datsun 120Y and Mitsubishi Debonair. For carmakers and retailers, it was the ultimate option – a low-cost add-on that could either add to the value of the sale, or be marketed as a no-cost option, giving the consumer the feel of getting something for nothing. But that’s not our favourite two-tone Jaguar (sorry, Inspector). Instead, we’re rather partial to the glorious Jaguar XJC, made even better with a vinyl roof. Just try not to think about the moisture gathering under there.

Offering superb performance in a well-designed car at a price far below that of the main continental competitors. The really telling comparison is that the Sprint’s performance is virtually identical with that of the Alfa Romeo 2000 GTV and BMW Tii. It’s exceptional value by any standards.” If anyone was doubting the coolness factor of a vinyl roof, the Dodge Challenger should mount a very positive case for the defence. Perfection. The Ford Thunderbird was the original ‘personal luxury car’ and one of the early champions of the vinyl roof’s second coming. The 1962 model was a real thing of beauty.Some say the Austin 1300 GT was a forerunner of the hot hatch. Ignoring the fact it didn’t actually have a rear hatch, of course. Either way, we love it, and are pleased to include it here thanks to the vinyl roof that marked it out from lesser 1100 and 1300 models. If ever a car was made for a vinyl roof, it was the Lincoln Town Car – an all-American luxury cruiser, dripping in excess. A number of different hues were available, while you could also choose between quarter, half and full tops. Things weren’t quite as successful on the second generation Mustang. This 1974 Mustang Ghia features far too much chrome, colour-coded bumpers and a rather bizarre half-vinyl roof. Not nice. Given Opel’s American parentage, it’s no surprise to discover that just about every model could be covered with a layer of vinyl in the 1970s. From the humble Kadett (Astra in the UK) to the hairy-chested Manta, vinyl was invariably on the options list. In 1971, Rover launched the definitive version of the P6 – the 3500S. With a manual gearbox and a V8 engine, this was the P6 to beat all P6s, not to mention any rival you placed before it.

Of all the cars featured here, we’d humbly suggest that the Dodge Charger is perhaps best suited to a vinyl roof. It just looks right. Similarly, the vinyl roof just looks so right on a Ford Cortina. It was a sure sign that a salesman was enjoying a good year. Indeed, the Lincoln Town Car was one of the last bastions of all that was good/bad about the vinyl roof (delete as applicable). In addition to its practicality and aesthetic appeal, the soft top ensures that the interior of your VW Golf 1 Cabriolet is watertight.While its condition may be secondary in summer when it's folded, it's a different story for autumn outings when it's unfolded and therefore clearly visible. This Swedish-Italian affair – the 262C was built by Bertone in Italy – soldiered on until 1981, by which time Volvo had removed the vinyl. All three generations of the Ford Capri were available with a vinyl roof and were best served with a ‘his and hers’ sunstrip and a dixie horn.