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Date: Thu, 14 Jun 2001 22:25:04 +0100
From: H. <musicboxnopsamrider.co.uk>
Subject: Re: 9-3 convertible quality......?


In reply to both your posts..... Just to contradict one statement, the Viggen is NOT called the Aero in Europe, or at least, I know it's not in the UK! In the UK, the Viggen is the flagship 9-3 with 225/230BHp, big alloys, body-kit etc. The Aero model is one down from that and is what was once called the HOT, or High Output Turbo, as it has 205BHp, in comparison to the normal full turbo which has 185. Finally there is the entry-level engine, a light pressure turbo with around 154BHp, or something like that. I think the Limited Edition you are thinking of is the "9-3 Alpine" which has just been released in the UK - it is a standard 9-3 but with body-colourd windscreen pillars, brushed aluminium / carbon/fibre dashboard, slightly different seats, a body kit and rear spoiler and big 17" alloys. As for comparisons with the BMW 3-series, well there is a world of difference between the two, but both have their good sides and bad. Certainly in the UK, the 9-3 Convertible is much much cheaper than the equivalent 3-series, and has far more equipment - standard leather / air-con / trip computer / CD player etc. The entry engine, the 154BHp Ecopower turbo is more powerful than the BMW unblown 1.9, and also more fuel efficient. The Saab is arguably going to last longer - both will be fine for 4-5years, 100,000 miles, but beyond that, the Saab will probably be a little more reliable, and even if not, probably cheaper to fix. But when it comes to resale value, in 3 years, the Saab will be worth less than the BMW, but then again, you have paid less for it in the first place... HOWEVER, arguably, the 3-series, being BMW and rear-wheel drive, is the better car when it comes to handling - it may be slower on the straights, but it is easier to push through a corner. The Saab is prone to scuttle-shake - that feeling of the whole car vibrating when you go over bumps, and BMW apparently doesnt so much. In the BMW, the engine gives smooth power delivery - good for some, boring for others. Non-Saab drivers are often frightened by the sheer wall of power you get off the turbo, but one you get used to it, it is anything but boring! I haven't driven an 3-series convertible, but I have driven several different 3-series 5 doors and coupes. I own a 9-3 SE 185BHp Convertible, and am glad I chose that. Why? Well there are less of them about, which makes them unusual - there are 3-series all over the place - you can't get away from them. In the UK BMW have something of a bad reputation - we seem to think they are driven by idiots who can't drive and have no respect for the rules of the road. Saabs are seen as odd, unusual, and safe. If all you care about is perfect handling and image, get a 3-series. If you want to be a bit different, have more fun in the long run, and pay less in the long run, buy the Saab! Hope this helps, H.

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