I'm amazed and at the same time sort of freaked out (in a sci-fi kind of way) when I see picture like this one of Saturn's moon Hyperion. This sucker's a long ways away, and yet we have a picture taken from a scant 384 miles away.

By JAMES RAIA
www.theweeklydriver.com

Driving a nicely performing convertible with the top down on a sun-baked summer day is about as good as it gets for driving enthusiasts. But there's more to convertibles that wind-whipped hair and the open road.

Whether ragtop or hardtop, convertibles are experiencing a popularity resurgence. There's new innovation and increased competition among U.S. and foreign manufacturers. And that means more choices for consumers.

In fact, nearly 50 new-model convertibles are now available in the United States. Here's a look at five manufacturers' offerings for your consideration:

* MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER (Base price: $25,984; Gas mileage estimates: 25 mpg, city; 29 mpg, highway) — With the 2007 Eclipse Spyder, Mitsubishi is attempting to squelch the concerns of buyers who may constantly wonder just how long their vehicle's ragtop will work properly.