Any opinions for and against? They seem quite reasonably priced for the spec (looking at something around 2004- 2006 probably). Do they suffer from cracking to the bulkhead?
I know some people say the handling isn't great but I'm'm not a sporty driver so that doesn't worry me. I just want something that looks nice, is comfy and has loads of toys!
I had a new one in 2006, it was reliable and fairly comfortable. It fits your said needs/wants but in no way was it ever exciting or desirable.
I had 2003 9-3 2.0t (not convertible)
It all depends what you are used to - it was quickish, the handling was hopeless, the build quality made Buell look good, and the paint scratched if you lent against the car!
The ICE was a disaster - it sounded like a 1970 transitor radio , not matter what you did with it.
The matt black fascia finish peeled off
And the suspension springs cracked ...
It was, however, great at driving through snow!
The Jeep Patriot that replaced it was a much better car ....
Now that is damning. A Jeep?!?!
We've got a 2005 9-3 Aero convertible. We paid £5k for it and that seemed like a bargain to us.
It's lovely and 210 BHP is useful, not sporty. It's not a sports chassis, lovely cruiser though. Bone dry inside too, no leaky hoods here.
Only had it since the summer but it is a lovely drive. My Beemer is better built, nicer chassis but I prefer driving the Saab. It wafts along nicer.
I've had a few Saabs in the past, all were great.
They are cheap because there is a misconception about their long term viability as Saab are no longer, ( apparently they are starting to make cars again though) but the spare parts bit of Saab never stopped and it's a very profitable business, as I read it.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GM_Epsilon_platform
rebadged GM, vauxhall, opel then,with a canvas roof.
Strange how a simailar car with a different brand name sells for and is seen as something more special.
Thats the power of brand marketing at work.
Now that is damning. A Jeep?!?!
it was meant to be really ...
One of the least enjoyable cars I have ever driven. It was just a rebodied vectra - but the vectra of the same era was much better.
However, if you want a cost effective cabrio, then rock on
BTW, I would by an Audi TT ...
However, if you want a cost effective cabrio, then rock on
That's the bracket we fall into.
Older 3 series
A4?
Golf?
Fiat Coupe
Alfa?
Mind you the latter to who lead to an intimate relationship with the breakdown services!
I currently have an Alfa 147 but its getting a bit tired hence me looking at something else. I like the level of kit on the Alfa, I've got full leather, climate control, cruise control etc etc and I'd like that in another car if possible! Saabs seem cheap and high spec (especially the convertible). On and I need something physically fairly small as our road is a bit difficult!
Like Project says exactly the same as a Vectra, just with all different panels, interior, suspension and most of the engines. 😉 As said above, the parts supply remained Swedish Govt owned and never went away as it made money. 93s are rolling off the production lines again. Great cars. I'm only selling mine as SWMBO has consented to a van purchase. I'll miss the heated leather. No car I've been in has had comfier seats.
I always yearned for a 900 turbo. Maybe I'll get one one day.
It's also nice to see the Swedish making Saab's again.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-25180698
We've got a 2005 one, it's been faultless in the 2 years we've owned it, not a great drivers car but drop the roof and it is perfect for a drive in the sun.
Winter is fine completely waterproof and warms up very quickly, not a compromise compared to a tin top.
Bulkhead problems affect the earlier model, not this one.
Interior dash is fine but no Audi or BMW, seats great and stereo OK.
It's our second car and chosen because we can get the kids in the back with plenty of room, build quality feels a step up from the saloon or estate version (owned a sportwagon from new as well). Petrol is thirsty, think mid twenties and thirty five on a run.
We've been looking to replace it and to of the list is another. The face lifted one!
Chris
Sidders,, can you get your bike in the boot?
Never tried to be honest, probably not, if I had to use it for the bike would either use a boot rack or wheels off and across the back seat.
What about a BMW 1 series anyone?
It's raining & I need a hair cut, anyone available for a short back & side 😉
🙂