Saab 9-3 Coupe (1998 - 2002) 2.0t SE (154bhp) 3d (1999/V) Owner Review
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
That I'm a quirky person who wants a safe, quality, reasonable performance vehicle at a lower price than a BMW or Mercedes.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Always admired, especially by my boss who drove a BMW 5 series saloon. When I first got it (in red) someone asked if it was an Alfa Romeo.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, though I'd look after the engine better.
What are you likely to buy next?
BMW Z3 V6 convertible
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchise
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£10,000
When did you buy the car?
January 2001
Did you get a good deal and why?
Ex company car
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Had been my company car from new - liked the prestige, comfort and perceived reliability of Saab, plus the 154bhp light pressure turbo engine
What was the dealer like?
Friendly and helpful
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Engine great, handling poor. Being front wheel drive, the front wheels tend to stamp their feet a bit under harsh acceleration and can spin pulling away from a junction. The chassis is basically an Astra, so dull and predictable handling.
What's it like to park?
No problems. Visibility good and power steering light.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Door hinge need replacing after 6 months. Blew the cylinder head gasket after 54k miles - probably from over enthusiastic use of the turbo before the engine had warmed up properly
What's most practical about your car?
Seats very comfortable and dash very ergonomic - everything is arranged round the driver
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Trip computer easy to use and quite handy when the fuel light comes on
