Having leased both a '97 900SET and '00 base 9-3 convertible and driven an '01 SE convertible as loaner for a few days, I think I can comment on the differences.

1. Wheels and tires: The '97 came with the 16" wheels and Pilot HX tires. Over the long term, I grew not to like the harsh ride. The HX's were terrible in the rain (lots of that in Fla.) but great on dry smooth surfaces. For 2001, SAAB switched to GoodYears. They don't handle as well as the HX's but seem to deliver a better ride. I think that the 15" Michelin MX4's on the base models are better than either of the 16" models, but that's just a personal preference.

2. Engine: Comparing the '00 and '01 convertibles, I don't think the extra 20hp makes much of a difference with an automatic. With a stick it might be different, but I doubt it. Both engines have enough torque and power for adequate acceleration.

3. Toys: I never was able to get the ACC to work they way I wanted in my '97 SET. I am happy to adjust the temp and vents myself. You can get the SAAB wood trim package installed on any 9-3 base car for about $250. Maybe your dealer might throw it in. My '00 came with an aftermarket package that included the radio, console, auto trans, and glove box included that looks factory installed. I do miss the memory seats!

4. Dealer Maintenance Package: The '00 base conv't did have the maintenance included, so I can't comment on the cost. I would suggest that you negotiate this with your dealer if you want the base car. I'll bet they will throw it in. It costs them very little, as if you are not happy with their prices for maintenance, you will go elsewhere and they will lose that profit anyway.

In the end, you have to be happy. I didn't think the $4K difference for the SE convertible was worth it in 2000. If I had leased in 2001, I would not have had a choice, since there are only SE conv'ts for '01. I don't know if the lease prices would the same even though the sticker prices for the '00 base and '01 SE conv'ts are about the same.

You pays your money and takes your choice. Good Luck with your new SAAB.

gatorcpa

• SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, fprintf, Thu, 1 Feb 2001 13:41:14
  • Re: SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, Erik, Mon, 5 Feb 2001 19:21:32
  • Re: SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, Dan Wyman, Fri, 2 Feb 2001 17:55:22
  • Re: SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, Marcus, Fri, 2 Feb 2001 15:27:14
  • Re: SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, Mark Anderson, Thu, 1 Feb 2001 17:24:37
  • Re: SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, gatorcpa, Thu, 1 Feb 2001 17:14:24 <-- Viewing This Message
  • Wait for the SE, if not for the ACC alone...., Richard P., Thu, 1 Feb 2001 15:54:26
  • Re: SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, Seamus, Thu, 1 Feb 2001 15:42:28
  • Re: SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, Bill H., Thu, 1 Feb 2001 14:31:35
  • Re: SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, Dave, Thu, 1 Feb 2001 14:24:39
  • Re: SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, OnOrder, Thu, 1 Feb 2001 14:06:56
  • Re: SE vs. Base - lots of base cars available, OnOrder, Thu, 1 Feb 2001 14:06:37

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