For its fans, the two-seater drop-top is the ultimate in hedonistic motoring pleasure. Those who have experienced it will testify that there is little to beat it.
For its detractors it is a mobile platform for shameless posers for whom bling is the thing; topless exhibitionists, shouting "look at me".
Another way of viewing it - and one that straddles the two positions above - is that the convertible is the ultimate piece of street jewellery. This term can be employed in a mildly derogatory, or a very complimentary, sense. And what better example of the latter than the Porsche Boxster? But what if it's still not flash enough? Then take the jewellery concept a step further and get one in gold. Not gold paint, mind you - real gold.
An advertising company based in the German town of Pforzheim, which rejoices in the title of The Gold Town of the Black Forest, has decided to create just such a trinket.
The company, Visualis, commissioned an artist to completely plate a Boxster in 22-carat gold, and has plans to produce another nine bespoke golden Porsches. The company states that the cars are "not only a dream in gold - they also represent the glamour and aesthetics of a lifestyle with an overwhelming worthiness", capable of stimulating "notions of envy". Whatever the merits of the first claim, the last one is certainly beyond dispute. So much so, that some might feel Ireland is not yet quite ready for a golden Porsche or its in-your-face occupants.
Petra Koehler, the company's public relations manager, told The Irish Times that there had been several expressions of interest from around the world. As yet, she said, there had been no enquiries from Irish customers.
The current car was not for sale, she said, and the prices of future units would depend on the model, and specification required. A customer might opt to compliment the bodywork with a few interior gold highlights - golden gearknob, steering wheel insets and door handles, for instance.
For peace of mind, however, Motors strongly recommends that prospective customers consider fitting a tracking device. Insurance companies might well do likewise.