Date: Thu, 22 May 2003 00:23:55 -0700 From: Joe Gugliemino <jgoogsnopsamteme.charter.net> Subject: Starting to shop
I've started to think about a new car, as I don't think my Explorer ('93, 200k mi) will pass inspection in September. There's not a lot out there that really interests me. We've got a mini-van now, so I don't need another utility vehicle. I also don't want a big car payment so I'm thinking about buying used. The cars on the short list (so far) include the VW Passat and Jetta, Subaru Impreza, and the Saab 900. I'm wondering how you think the 900 matches up against these. I think the Saab has the best lines, and from what I've read it has solid reliability. It also seems to be the roomiest. But I don't have experience with any of these cars so I'd like to collect some data points - even biased ones. My hypothetical Saab would be a 900 S/SE 5-speed. I live in New England at the top of a significant hill, so snow traction is important to me. Last year's snows gave our Odessey some trouble before the plows got to us. As for the S/SE, I like the idea of a turbo for performance, but I'm leary of repair costs. Have the turbos proven themselves to be as solid as the engine they're bolted on to? Does a non-turbo have enough zip to make it fun to drive? It seems like I've got 2 options for buying used. I can either buy an off-lease for $10-15k (or more), or an older model for $5 - 10k. I really don't want to spend over $10k if I don't have to, but I don't want to buy a problem child either. What are some things to look out for in '96-'98 models? What would be a good price for an SE? Can I get one for $6k that would last? The few Saab dealers I've called don't carry older models. Does anybody know reputable used car dealers in the Worcester/Framingham/Milford/Westford area? I've been checking Ebay to get an idea of prices and there have been 900SEs listed that are within driving distance, so I could check them out in person. I wouldn't bid sight unseen, but if I could give it a good once-over and have a mechanic check it out I'd be alright with that. Thanks in advance for any comments, - Joe (To reply directly, remove the 'deleteme' from my address
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