Saab 9-3 Convertible (2003 - 2011) 1.8t Linear 2d (2006/06) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
That I appreciate a design classic.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Most of them like it a lot (although I suspect a few of them think convertibles are a bit showy).
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, if I was in the market for a convertible I'd definitely choose a 9-3 again. But, given the choice I'd probably go for a diesel if money was no object. A bit more punch and also better fuel economy.
What are you likely to buy next?
I don't know - I'd like a Giulietta if it was to be a second car, but I'm likely to be selling the second car soon and riding my bike. For a new main car I'd probably be considering an Alfa 159 estate, a Skoda Superb estate or a Honda Civic.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£4,000
When did you buy the car?
April 2012
Did you get a good deal and why?
Yes - it was on eBay and very local. I was the leading bidder, but under the reserve price. Contacted the seller to say I'd go as high as £4000 and could pay the next day and he accepted.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
I wanted something a bit different and fun as a second car that wouldn't be used as much as our main car.
What was the dealer like?
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Really easy to drive and feels comfortable. It could do with a sixth gear for motorway driving (the diesel model has it, but the petrol one doesn't). The engine is big enough to pull uphill without having to change down too often, but it is a little slow - but then it isn't designed for racing.
What's it like to park?
Easy to park with the roof down, but with a slightly high boot line and small rear screen it can be a little trickier with the roof up.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Pretty much nothing except bulbs seem to blow more frequently than on other cars I've owned.
What's most practical about your car?
It's sturdy and reliable.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The roof.
