1997 SAAB 900 NG review from UK and Ireland

Heater Controls Need Replacing.

Center Console Above Radio Loose.

Bonnet Badge Missing.

This Swede certainly knows how to make someone happy!

It's the first time I've owned, or indeed driven, a Saab. After doing my research on the NG (new generation) 900 coupe, I found that it's a Vauxhall (opal) Vectra...

But, I'm not deterred, not one bit. The seats are an absolute joy to sit in, very comfortable. The controls are right at hand and the instrument cluster is very clear to read, thanks to the 'black panel' Only the lights that need your attention show up!

The engine, is one of the best things about this car. Very very smooth, thanks to double balance shafts and timing chain, yup. A chain! it revs freely all the way up to its 6200 red line.

Fuel consumption is OK, but not fantastic. But a car this size and weight, with a 2 liter engine..

I'm still trying to get used to the keys having to go behind the gear lever! Another Saab doing to stop broken knee caps in the event of an accident, as well as stop hot wiring!

Safety wise, you could not ask for more in a base model car. Twin air bags, ABS, belt pretensioner, anti-submarine seats. But Saab are world renowned for their safety. This is a car you feel safe in, very safe.

This car has road presence. People do not want to mess with these things.

On driving, I am still trying to get over how quiet it is. It's very easy to get speed behind you without you realising. Round town, refined, easy to park, light and airy inside.

On the motorway, it could sit happily at 80mph, if not more, all day.