1996 SAAB 9000 CS review from Australia and New Zealand
"An amazing vehicle"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Persistent annoying electrical problem that has varying symptoms such as headlights deciding not to work at inconvenient times (never whilst driving luckily) and having to have the headlight switch 'on' to get the fans to work. Still working on fixing it, more frustrating then anything.
DI Cassette had to be replaced.
Alternator had to be replaced. I think the above three problems were due to a short that occurred in the system when I reconnected the battery once upon a time (well I know the above two were due to that). It tripped the fuses (most of them) but still damaged some components. I used to own a 92' 9000 CD that didn't have any problems in these areas.
Oil seals starting to leak (age).
CV boots replaced twice now, tore one within 6 months, not sure how. Problem seems resolved.
The stock 10 stack CD player would only play a few of my CD's (not uncommon for CD Players made prior to 2000). Replaced it with an MP3 player for the cost of $80. Rest of the stock system (speakers) are more than sufficient for my needs and in perfect working order.
General comments?
The most exciting and comfortable car I've ever driven, and I've driven a few.
The interior is simply wonderful, even with the standard cloth seats (leather is nicer). Seat heaters are my favorite feature as I ate using the fan heaters. Spacious, power everything, and trip computer all great.
Has plenty of go and up hills can be matched by very few cars around. When I've reduced myself to doing it it has beaten plenty of hotted falcodore style vehicles off the line.
Handling is excellent for a car of this size/weight, not exactly rally class (though it probably could be upped if you sacrifice some ride comfort) but more than sufficient for any ones needs and its saved me more than once when I've misjudged a corner. This applies to the four wheel ventilated disk ABS brakes too.
Despite all the 'describable' great bits I must say that I am most in love with this cars character. (yes I'm one of those people who names his cars). Its like having an extension to myself rather then sitting in a car whenever I drive her.
Recommended Reviews:
  | 1997 - 9000 Griffin 2.3 turbo, petrol, 200bhp The first car that puts a smile on my face every time I use it - and it's practical too! |
| You simply won't find a better car for the money |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3L Ecopower turbo Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 200000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 220000 miles |
| Previous car | Mitsubishi Lancer |
| Date of Entry | 6th May, 2008 |