Date: Thu, 15 Apr 1999 08:35:20 GMT From: "Geoff" <jeffe_verdenopsam.hotmail.com> Subject: Re: SAAB?
Gary- my family drive both Saabs and Volvos. Speaking from about 2 million combined miles of experience the (pre-90) Volvos had a *slight* edge on the service costs, but both were extremely reliable (we drive alot and usually replace the Volvos at around 200k and the Saabs at 230-250k). While parts and service are pricey for both -- neither needs much beyond basic maintenance. We've had to replace a trans in a Volvo and a Saab at 120k and 160k, respectively, and I had to replace a motor on my current 9000 (at 185k) when the oil pump failed while cruising at 130mph, and a cam bearing seized before I could shut it down (had to tear the whole thing down, just to make sure there weren't any metal shavings in oil galleys). That said, I'm a die-hard Saab fan. I think the Volvos are ugly and drive like a pig. The older ones were boxy and the new ones don't know what they're trying to be. The 9.5 Saab, on the other hand, has an elegant interior, attractive exterior that doesn't try to look like every other car on the road, and out drives a 540 BMW -- what's not to like? As for the turbos- just use a high grade oil, change it regularly, and ALWAYS wait for the turbo to spin down before turning off the motor. Since changing to synthetic oil, we haven't had to replace a turbo in any of the Saabs. One caveat on all this- no one in my family has a car newer than a 92, so I can't speak for the newer series cars. Guess we'll find out soon- we're all pushing 200-220k miles. (I'm holding out for hatchback 9.5). Geoff Gary Kartchner wrote in message ... >our family has always had volvos and i was concidring a saab is it true that >they are not reliable and have major repair bills are the turbos as good as >the volvos what are the best models and years > >
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