I like how comfortable the car is.
I originally had a V6 Mustang, which is a weak car in itself, but it never had any problems at around 50k. However I hated having a convertible, I wanted a stick, I wanted a backseat, I wanted leather, I wanted something that could handle well in the snow, I wanted something nice - hence the Saab 9-5.
Guess you could describe the handling as "forgiving" - as opposed to "stiff" or "firm" like an Audi. I like both because both have their advantages. However don"t mistake it with American standard turning performance. It won't ever jerk you around, as you are in complete control.
Even though the suspension is a little aged, I still think it is superior to American engineering. German suspension is in its own class.
It is a very comfortable car to drive, and despite having damaged parts at times, I have always been able to drive it to the mechanic instead of having it towed. I use an independent master mechanic as opposed to "in training" dealership mechanics. Having a good mechanic is like having a good doctor as far as I'm concerned.
Always have regular maintenance for your Saab, and use the right kind of oil and coolant.
The car is very spacious and comfortable for other passengers. It is a very nice luxury car with good power for a 4 cylinder (185 hp). Granted, I drive a stick.
Car handles very well in the snow. HOWEVER, keep in mind it is not all about the car but the person driving it and the tires on which the car is being driven. Drive safe, drive smart, drive slow.
I get good gas mileage in my Saab. I try to minimize the work being done by the engine by shifting around 2500 rpm; this keeps the acceleration smooth but allows the turbo to kick in appropriately. Everybody has their own thing.
A good family car, good car if you like to drive other people around because it is very comfortable, and it has good power for a 4 cylinder.
I drove my friend's Accord and my Saab definitely had the better kick. Much better handling than a Mustang, better power and almost as spacious as an Accord, way more room than an Audi, better gas mileage than an Audi, more torque than some BMWs, more standard features than a lot of Japanese cars. Beware of the LED screen though; I have heard that if the little lights go out where the clock and radio station are, you cannot have it fixed, only replaced.
Lastly, I remember when I used this site to help me decide if I wanted a Saab and the one problem I noticed most people had was the single cup holder, but seriously it is one awesome cup holder; you have to see it.
The reason I would not buy another is because a lot of the costs for this car are as much as cars in a higher class such as Audi or BMW, and the frequency of problems is about the same, so in the future I will opt for the sightly more expensive cars, and pay the same mechanic fees. Saab has done well, but not well enough by me.
