FUN IN THE SUN: CLASSICS FOR

THE BEACH Fiat 500 Jolly

Blessed with bodywork sculpted by Carrozzeria Ghia, the 1958 Jolly was a chopped down Fiat 600. Minus the doors, this fun runabout still cost double the price but wowed potential buyers with a fringed fabric roof and wicker seats, essential and practical on sandy beaches. Only 650 were made – glamorous owners included Mae West, Yul Brynner and Grace Kelly.

Messerschmitt KR200 Kabrio

If you drive a Triumph Spitfire, a matching Messerschmitt is a must. The KR200 Kabrio was born in the 1950s – a canvas roof offering better ventilation than the stifling, bubble hardtop version. Powered by a 191cc, single-cylinder engine, manoeuvres were made via a steering bar that was pushed rather than turned, just like an aircraft.

Suzuki SJ410

This convertible 4x4 was the must-have hire car for holidaymaking Brits abroad in the 1980s. Rugged and cheap, the lightweight SJ was brilliant off-road but less impressive on tarmac. Bedevilled with rust problems, the SJ still looked cool posing on a Costa del Sol beachfront. A forerunner of the current Jimny – a far more accomplished car.