We've got a 2001 9-5 (base 2.3lpt) and 2004 V70R which is essentially the same car as the S60R with exception of a little wheelbase stretch and wagon bodystyle.

I test drove 9-5 Aero wagon before buying the V70R, but the Aero didn't seem quite as quick. We also wanted AWD, so the volvo was an easy choice. The 6-spd manual on the volvo was also unavailable on the 9-5 Aero.

The difference between the 9-5 and the S60R are in driving dynamics. The Volvo is a very bulky, heavy car compared to the 9-5. The turning radius of the R is terrible, especially compared to the good radius of the 9-5. Switching from my previous car, NG900 coupe to the V70R was like culture shock- I was driving twice the car... twice the power and twice the driven wheels, but also twice the size on the outside and seemingly twice as heavy. Also, where our 9-5 can get 31 MPG on the freeway and mid 20s in town, the Volvo is much less frugal, returning 17.5 in town and 22.5 on the freeway!

Even with the V70R's wheelbase stretch vs. S60R, our 9-5 still has significantly more backseat leg room than the Volvo.

I've been a Saab person for the past 12 years, and switching to the Volvo felt like I was leaving the family. Saab drivers notice other Saab drivers, whereas Volvo drivers typically don't.

I'd probaby choose the Volvo again for its AWD and speed, but I'd be more attentive to the fuel economy and maneuverability. If we didn't already have a 9-5, though, I'd likely have chosen the 9-5 Aero wagon and let my wife drive some AWD car.

KR
Shoreline, WA

posted by 63.231.58...

• Question regarding Volvo S60R vs Saab Aero, pa_domino, Tue, 14 Dec 2004 19:05:29
  • Compared V70R & Aero SW -my thoughts, Winder, Wed, 15 Dec 2004 15:37:42
  • My longish comparo, KR900, Wed, 15 Dec 2004 08:21:13 <-- Viewing This Message
  • Do you need the room of the 9-5 or you could live...., TKC, Wed, 15 Dec 2004 05:53:05
  • Re: Question regarding Volvo S60R vs Saab Aero, albanysaab, Wed, 15 Dec 2004 04:33:29

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