Date: Tue, 08 Jul 2003 13:52:12 GMT From: 'nuther Bob <nooneherenopsamaddress.com> Subject: Re: potential 9-3 convertible buyer (ex-Volvo) wanting tips
On Tue, 8 Jul 2003 20:50:50 +1200, "Robert van Deventer" <rvandnopsam.co.nz> wrote: >Hi, > >We're are thinking of buying a 9-3 convertible (SE). I have no experience >with Saabs having been a Volvo 960 driver for as long as I can remember. > >I know my Volvo's inside out but not so my Saabs. I would like to know what >specifically to look out for with the 9-3 convertible. Also, it's a 2000 >model New Zealand new. > >Any help would be appreciated. All I have is good news for you. :-) Great car, fun to drive. Well insulated for winter use. By 2000, the NG900/9~3 was a very mature model. Most all of the glitches from the NG900/9~3 had been worked out. I know of *no* specific defects or issues with the 2000 SE. You don't say how many miles/km, so here's a couple of general pointers: Check the top, operate it open to close several times. Make sure everything is smooth. Drive it at speed, feel for vibration at 55+mph. There are many possibilities here but problems are unlikely. Still, it's nice to get the previous owner to pay for it if work such as wheel balancing if it is needed. Power should be smooth throughout the range... the turbo is a little slow off the line, but should build quickly as you accelerate. ON the highway it should positively surge above 3K RPM. Check for a big grin - if you're grinning wildly after a go with the throttle, it's working correctly. The tranny should be smooth and shift comfortably, although Saab's tranny is not the worlds tightest (try a Honda and drool). Take a look under the tranny/engine/driveshaft area and look for oil leaks. Make sure all the accessories work, That includes seat heaters if you have them, the SID (digital dash display), the heater controls (I assume your SE will have climate control). Check the radio on all bands, the cd-changer. Check the headlights and foglights. Operate the power windows and door locks. Again, no known problems. Some folks have reported some lines dropping off the SID - 2001 and later I think. There are also some issues with the *manual* heater controls getting stiff but I think your SE will have pushbutton/climate control. There's nothing like a Saab convertible on the right day. Top down, wind in your hair (what remains for some of us), take a nice drive. I actually look for places to go drive. Yesterday I went to buy a new T.V. with the 'vert - I knew it would barely fit, but it was just too nice a summer day to leave the 'vert home. Bob
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