My convertible makes my ex regret why she dumped me - Denzel

Sleek sporty cars or whips are all the rage in Kampala. They come in all shapes, models, colors and sizes.

They are a status symbol and in many ways, they point to the owner's flamboyant lifestyle.

Those who own and drive them are invariably inclined to living life in the fast lane or just flossing (showing off) to get into the good graces of the weaker sex.

One sleek car that is increasingly getting drive time on Kampala's dusty roads is the convertible, a two door vehicle with a back seat and a retractable fabric cover.

Convertible cars in many respects provide a driving experience akin to no other.

They provide safety features like pop up or fixed roll bars which are there to save people's lives in case of an accident.
Convertibles also feature side bags deployed to protect the passenger's head in the event of an accident.

Former Big Brother Hotshots housemate and XFM presenter Charlie Denzel Mwiyeretsi, 26, is one of the few flamboyant young guns in Kampala privileged to drive a convertible.

He talked to us about his experience owning and driving a stylish white convertible with a black retractable roof.

Tell us why one should buy a convertible?

A convertible is a Fun car. It's hard to have a bad day when you're driving around with the roof down, cool wind and sun in your face, listening to your favorite song. They are also good for making your ex-girlfriend regret having dumped you.

Why did you buy yours?

Love at first sight (and first drive!) I had no intention of purchasing such an automobile but when I sat in one and actually drove it around I realized it was worth its high price. I'm also an outdoors person, having owned many motorbikes, so being in the open air was such a seduction! It felt like a motorbike on four wheels!.

Denzel's convertible packed outside Vision Group's head office. Photos/ Richard Wetaya

 
What should a car aficionado expect when they purchase a convertible?

I speak in terms of what I won, a roadster, which is a convertible sports car. Sportscars aren't big on comfort, so don't expect much comfort. Expect performance. Apart from picking up speed very fast and effortlessly, it's great to have the roof down and hear my 3.2 litre engine growling as I speed down the road...Be wary though, driving convertibles have some down sides like bird poop, dust and every one thinking you are rich.

What are some of the things one should look out before they buy a convertible?

A non faulty roof. Because it is constantly going up and down, it is bound to have some issues. One should drive it in rain to make sure it doesn't leak. That said, look out for all the other things you would look out for on an ordinary car, engine checks etc.

In terms of size, what there to fancy in a convertible?

Convertibles are known for being impractical cars, especially when it comes to size. Mine for example is a two seater, with a small boot (space is eaten up by the retractable roof). They certainly aren't family cars.

Hard or soft top convertible, which one is better and which one provides the better elegant look?

Most newer models are hard tops. The soft top (such as mine) has that vintage look which some people such as myself find appealing. Apart from looks, they are not very different.

In terms of fuel and the engine, what is there to savor about a convertible if a contrast is to be drawn with other luxury cars?

This depends on the car. A convertible such as mine is a sports car and with other sports cars, performance is paramount. I seat behind a 3.2L Engine  pulled by 275-305 horses! (Horsepower) To reach the 0-60mph in 5 seconds, you need to burn a lot of fuel, so frequent speed bursts will leave you returning to the gas station pretty often. The engine, like many German cars, when maintained stays tip top!

Safety—is it an important factor when it comes to a convertible, are they not dangerous?

Obviously a car with a roof is much better than one without one once the car flips over. BUT none the less, convertibles have their protective mechanisms. So long as you have your seat belt on, they have protective bars that ensure that you are no smashed into pieces plus their windscreens are reinforced. So safety isn't completely compromised.

What are some of the fanciful security features one can savor about a convertible?

When it comes to security of personal belongings, convertibles suck. I've lost a phone and had many almost grabbed from me because of its open nature. Never leave valuables in the car especially when open unless you are in the mood to donate them to the nearest goon.

Do you drive a luxury model or a standard model?

Luxury. Compact Luxury sports car to be exact. The 2002 BMW Z3 3.2L


How is your space in the trunk? Is it enough and is it one of the trump cards of a convertible?

Very limited space. Especially with my subwoofer, I don't think I can even fit a bunch of matooke in there. As I mentioned, sports cars are big on performance and small on comfort. There are times I wish I had more trunk space but when I drop the roof and turn on the engine…those wishes are fast forgotten…