Hi Jack
you are wise to buy new as you will need Euro IV emissions control for Italian cities!
I have a 2005 4/4 which is very similar except for the motor.
The hood (new "easy up" type) is very good, mine is waterproof even on the motorway with heavy rain and spray from lorries. A few drops get in around the sidescreens. I had to spend some time making it fit properly though at the front seal, now it is great.
I can drive it at 70-80 mph with the top down or up, no headache. Perhaps my 1800 engine is quieter. I can listen to the stereo up to about 60-65 mph. If anything there is more noise with the top up.
The brakes are fine and well balanced, hardly anyone converts the rear to disc. There is no ABS of course!
The luggage space behind the seats is adequate for 2 people for a weekend away including a soft bag (airline carry on size), 2 small rucsacs, SLR camera, tripod, 2 pairs walking boots, picnic etc...as we did last weekend! I would use the rear rack for a suitcase or perhaps a couple of dry "canoe" bags strapped on.
Mine is a "Sunday" car, and kept in a garage. I have done only about 3000 miles in a year, mostly dry, but do use it in wet weather if necessary. My main concern with daily use in the UK would be leaving it out in all weathers, as I don't think it would stay dry inside if left out for days of continuous rain. You probably won't have that problem!
Here's a dealer website page showing a silver +4 with the roof up, it looks just like mine:
http://www.williamsautomobiles.com/index.php?p=22_7&mid=298Ciao
Nigel
