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I've been wanting to know what the 9-5 turbo wagons are like for quite some time, to compare to 9000 for future reference/purchase, and being so HOT yesterday and not wanting to sit indoors all day, it seemed like a nice adventure...
Test drove 2004 Arc Wagon auto with 19K miles (220 hp) with 6 year 100K mile warranty asking $21.9K...
10 times as much as a nice used early/mid 90's 9000 Turbo.
The good news is my wife REALLY liked it, the bad news is my wife REALLY liked it...
Says now that she drove 9-5, doesn't want to drive our 93 CSE n/a anymore, said she'd prefer the 9-5 to a newer 9000 with FPT.
Of course, that could be a blessing, for when it comes time to replace our 93 or get a second car, there won't be a problem talking her into an Aero wagon...
The bad news, it may be the end of the line for 9000 purchases.
Anyway, test reports:
I like the interior of the 9000 better, especially the front dash design and layout, trip computer, cupholders, and radio. Just a nicer design to look at, more the feeling of looking at mid-century danish modern furniture. I like the seats better on the 9000, but my wife prefers the 9-5 seats. I felt like the 9-5 driver seat was tilted to the left, she thought the seats were firmer and provided more leg room at the dash.
Telescoping steering wheel was nice, rear view mirror was not as adjustable as the one on our 9000.
The his and hers AC controls are nice, so no one has to compromise on air temperature.
Acceleration is great (will break loose the tires), tip-tronic on the steering wheel is useful, but lags a little (IMO)...
Build quality seems fine, feels safe, but interior quality of materials seems less European and more GM.
Seat fold-down is improved (you don't have to remove headrests). Cupholders built into back seat arm rest (nice). Rear AC (nice).
Lots of little compartments in trunk area.
Engine compartment is noticeably smaller and I found myself wondering how hard it would be to change the serp belt. Looks like engine would be harder to work on, but who knows...
Overall, a fine replacement for the 9000, but I can't see getting as attached to it emotionally, at least not instantly, maybe over time.
aaron
posted by 72.144.134...
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