That 9-3 is a very hot looking car. The power doesn't seem to be boosted much over the current generation, though. (205 hp, similar torque).
Saabs do NOT feel or look like GM cars, so that's no excuse for not buying one. I have driven a few (actually considered a 1998 Saab 900 SE Turbo).
They have decent build quality. Very deliberate layout to their interiors, which in the current generation is functional and very European (think top-of-the-line IKEA). Also more sporty (until recently) than Volvo.
Also have driven a 2000 9-3 SE.
Impressions:
- Rubbery shifter! Also very vague and bad feel. Sort of like stirring a pot of sand with a few rocks in it.
- Torque steer. Ohmygoodness.
- Harsh ride. 205/50/16 tires and jiggly ride. Worse than my SVT. Not to mention they put crap Goodyear Eagle RS-A tires on a $30k+ car.
- HUGE trunk. Hatchback design is great.
- Great seats
- Great seats
- Good power, but very "elastic" response. As in, you desire acceleration...you put foot in it...you don't get much, so you step on it harder....then the speed comes on in a rush, so you have to let off. Sort of like a rubber band tied to the bumper stretching to the horizon. It coils up slowly, then launches, and you're always fiddling with the gas to get the right amount of thrust. I think this is an artifact of a very sophisticated computer boost control system trying to make up for turbo lag by varing valve timing, boost, etc. (Very unlike the SVT with it's linear throttle). Fun in it's own way.
- It also had that VW VR6 feel of the engine hanging out over the front bumper. As in nose heavy and the front wheels are right under you, so turn in is....weird. Sort of like imagining a great handling Toyota Previa where you are very near the circumference of rotation, versus our cars, where you feel nearer the center of the arc, if that makes any sense.
Is there a technical term for this?
Kerry
