1999 SAAB 9-3 2.0t SE Convertible review from UK and Ireland
"It would be great if the Japanese built it"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Lots of plastic trim replaced because it turned from black to grey.
Gearbox rebuilt because of bearing noise.
New gearbox fitted because of noise.
New reverse gear fitted because of noise when engaging.
Engine sub frame bolts tightened twice because of clonk when pulling away.
Wrinkled hood around rear window was normal according to dealer.
Plastic cover for hood frame replaced because return spring broke.
Windscreen seal replaced.
Seat base replaced twice because seat belt marked it.
Drivers door mounting brackets re-welded to stop creaking.
General comments?
This is a boulevard cruiser; if you hit bumps, it shakes and twists.
You look really good with the hood down.
The low-pressure turbo goes well enough not to embarrass you at the lights.
You can't sit women (or men) with long hair in the back because the wind will whip them to death.
If your local police force uses video cameras for speed traps, it's so dark inside with the hood up that the driver is unrecognisable.
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| Classy, understated car! |
| Unique, quirky, but own one, and you will fall in love |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 low pressure turbo Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 120 miles |
| Most recent distance | 13600 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda MX6 |
| Date of Entry | 5th August, 2002 |