Date: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 07:23:41 -0400 From: "Ken Freeman" <kenfreemannopsamlepc.com> Subject: Re: 9-5 Wagon?
Our '99 9-5 with the turbo four and a 5-speed is a great car. Haven't had it in Colorado yet, but as a former Denverite, I'd think about where the dealers are. If you live in Bailey but need service in Aurora, that would be bad news! However, it's probably not that bad anymore. Just based on my experience with other cars in high altitude driving, I would expect the Saab 2.3 with turbo to do everything you could need. The engine system is clearly tuned for responsive, predictable control, which is a great help on mountain roads that you must drive as you find. In Michigan we've found it has excellent snow capability, better than the 740 wagon we drove when we lived in Denver. Ground clearance is definitely greater than the 740, and it never gave me any problem. If they offer it, get traction control, because that will make it easier to eliminate wheelspin. With our 5-speed it's no problem, but you usually get less feedback with an automatic. Also the 9-5 will be much more comfortable and roomy than the Subaru, even a new one. I'd wonder about pulling in radio stations, but that is such a localized issue. Ken "rboater" <bwellsnopsamnet> wrote in message news:bwells-1109022327470001nopsamt48.tnt1.montrose.co.da.uu.net... > It's time for a new wagon. My '91 FWD Camry has 207k miles and has seen > better days. Before that I had an '82 FWD Subaru GL that I put 225k on. I > live in the mountains of Colorado and have gotten by with the FWD, but > there have been times when I've thought that the next car I own will have > to have AWD. But the Outbacks leave me cold. The four is underpowered, as > is the six with just a four speed auto. I drove the Audi Allroad, which > was really fun, but the price and the abysmal mileage eliminate that one. > I think the Saab is a great car, fun to drive, good cargo space, good > mileage, turbos seem to work well for the mountains (besides, I like > quirky); and it's at a great price right now. My only hesitation is the > FWD, and perhaps the clearance. Any thoughts from anyone who drives one in > the mountains, in the snow, lousy dirt roads, etc? Any helpful thoughts > will be appreciated. > > Thanks > > Bill
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
