"There are convertible versions of hatchbacks, of coupés, of supercars, why not of people carriers? The presenters set out to rectify that by sawing the roof off an old Espace and then putting it through a series of tests. Conclusions? Mostly monkey proof. Not so good in car washes." Top Trumps - Top Gear: The Challenges
Espace MK1[]
Convertible People Carrier MK1
Jeremy Clarkson attempted to turn a Renault Espace into a convertible in Clarkson: Heaven and Hell but it was proven to be a failure splitting in half.
Espace Mk2[]
Convertible People Carrier MK2
After Jeremy's failed attempt, Richard Hammond and James May opted to help convert another Espace into a convertible in Series 8, Episode 1 of Top Gear, which proved to be almost better.
After completing their creation they put it through a number of tests. Firstly they had to achieve 100mph with the hood up without collapsing. They manage this although with help from Richard holding the roof in place. Next it had to drive through Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire, with Jeremy and Richard concerned about the lions while James was left more worried about the Barbary Ape Monkeys. The final test involved driving through a brand new car wash, however this proved to be a failure as the Espace's roof, got trapped in the mechanism and the car wash caught fire.