1999 SAAB 9-3 review from North America
"An overrated car only appreciated by people who've never driven other cars"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Heater control, power antenna, windshield trim, stripped bolt oil drain plug, radio tuning (AM) and 2 recalls.
General comments?
Worst torque steer on earth: car wanted to change lanes on heavy throttle.
Worst manual shifter since the 70's: vague and clunky.
Poor stereo sound.
A/C barely could cope with a Western New York summer.
Peaky engine (I don't care what the sales literature says) that made using the transmission necessary- a real chore when the tranny feels like this one.
All controls rubbery, slippery and hard
to activate.
Claustrophobic and very narrow cabin.
Poor snow traction even with 4 Michelin Alpins.
Great high speed steady speed cruising capability.
Good gas mileage (30 mpg @ 70 mph)
Large and usable trunk with the hatchback.
Recommended reviews
| Good car |
|
| Love Hate Relationship |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 turbo 4 Manual |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 41000 miles |
| Previous car | Subaru Legacy |
| Date of Entry | 20th July, 2003 |