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I've been looking at getting a new 9-3 SS but I have heard a lot of people saying how terrible Saabs are and that it will cost you a fortune to own one. I'd like to know the truth because I have a feeling that a lot of these people just like to talk smack and think that this car is nothing but a rebadged Chevy Malibu.
I know it's too soon to say for sure if the 2003 9-3 is going to be a reliable car, but I know the 9-5 got an excellent rating by Consumer Reports and they're usually pretty pessimistic. I currently drive a 2000 Ford Mustang (which CR said was a terrible car) but want to get into an entry-level luxury car and so far the Saab 9-3 SS is my favorite.
Luckily, I have never had any serious problems with my Mustang, but I do understand that a mass-produced American car is not the same as a European car and a Saab might require a little more care and nurturing (although I have taken very good care of all my cars). And I'm probably not going to be able to have it serviced anywhere I want.
A new 9-3 will cost me a little more than half a year's salary and I am hoping that if I do purchase one, it will be about as reliable as my current car, if that isn't too much to expect. I drive about 18,000 miles per year so a lease is probably out of the question. At that rate, the basic warranty will be up in 2 3/4 years and I may not have the car paid off by then.
I don't know too many people who have owned European cars. My parents had a 1986 Audi 5000, which was a dog (and a well known dog), and I have known a few people who have onwed Mercedes-Benzes and they were in the shop often. I worked with a guy who had a VW Jetta but he hated it. Notice a trend? All German cars...my cousin had a Volvo C70 and loved it, but she had a baby and had to get rid of it. She's the only person I've known whose owned a Swedish car, and a Volvo isn't a Saab.
I would hate to buy a car I would have to put a lot of money into. But at the same time, I won't drive a Lexus because even though they are extremely reliable, they are boring to drive, boring to look at, and are way too common around these parts.
I live in Phoenix so the car won't be seeing any snow or extreme weather conditions other than the extreme summer heat.
So in all, what is a reasonable expectation to have if I purchase one of these cars? Any honest input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
posted by 68.3.99...
, Sat, 22 Feb 2003 10:14:11
, Sat, 22 Feb 2003 02:16:04
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