Topless Model (Saab 9-3 SE 2.0t 150 bhp Convertible)

Member Name: markw-d

Product:	Saab 9-3 SE 2.0t 150 bhp Convertible
Date:	21/12/01 (259 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: looks great, keeps its value, well built

Disadvantages: small boot

I've driven company cars for the last 20 years, starting with a Maestro and culminating in a very nice loaded Mercedes Benz.

Last year I joined a new company and for tax reasons elected to buy myself a car and so I went shopping. Once I had made my mind up to have a soft top (mid life crisis) there was no other choice for me than the Saab.

Good looking, right price band, good reputation. 2 Hours later I had bought a 2000/2001 SE model with optional CD stacker, wood effect dashboard, auto box and the great Silver Paint, Blue Hood combination.

The garage did a great deal and I think I paid 26 and a half for it as they had already registered it.

So what did I find with my first Saab.

Ride - Hard, as you would expect with a convertible (extra body stiffening) and ultra low profile tyres, but great at speed.

Handling - There is a reason why people dont rally convertibles and you should remember that if you want to chuck it around the lanes, however under normal road conditions it sticks like glue.

Build - Excellent. Much less scuttle shake that BMW's and Fords I've driven. First class from top to toe.

Economy - You are buying a convertible and you care?

Hood operation - Impressive, but get used to people stopping to watch as you do it in the pub or supermarket car park.

Upholstery - Hardwearing good quality leather. Surprisngly ideal for dirty kids.

Load space - Ooops, didnt think about that when I bought it. Buy a trailer!

Power - Plenty on tap and gets better with mileage. The auto has a power button which changes the ratios and that is quite a lot of fun. Be prepared to get through some very expensive tyres though.

Security - Good alarm system / immobilisor even with the top down.

Dealer - Concept Saab have been brilliant.

Servicing - Hmm expensive. First service was £100.00 and it only took an hour with no parts used.
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Living with it - We love the car.

Aerodynamically its quite quiet with the hood down and you dont tend to get blown about so we have happily driven 150 miles with the top down in summer.

Also the nicest time to drive convertibles are at night or on a crisp winters day with the heater turned up and a warm jacket.

Its not overly practical for a fmaily of 4 but thats not why you buy a car like this, and they keep their value second hand.

Recommended!

Summary: