1997 SAAB 9000 CSE Anniversary review from UK and Ireland

Nothing to be concerned with other than one of the H1 headlight bulbs blowing.

This is a great all round family executive car. It may not be as controlled to drive as a BMW, but the quality of the finish is streets ahead.

For out and out speed it can still out-perform a Porsche 911 in 5th gear between 70mph and 90mph.

In luxury terms, this car has everything that a modern car should have including climate control/air-con, leather/suede seats, walnut veneer, loads of interior space for front and rear passengers.

If I wanted to change anything it would have to be:

1) Stiffer anti-roll bars both front and rear.

2) KONI adjustable shocks all round with stiffer lowering springs

3) Front engine mounted strut brace

4) Add the Aero spec seats with greater level of adjustment and memory system for three drivers.

The performance mods are only suggested since I've been driving a 309 GTI. Even for a 309 you don't feel any lean as you go around a roundabout quickly. this is more noticeable in the SAAB. However, you need to realise that the 9000 is 600kg heavier and has a higher centre of gravity than a 309. Role on the mods.

The one thing I can't change is the steering wheel height. I'd prefer it to be one inch higher, although I'm only 5'8". The wheel does get in the way of my thighs occasionally.