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The C&D Article was as usual full of inaccuracies and failed to take into account real world facts. First consider the value quotient ascribed to the 9-3 SE. Sure for 34K, it is not on a par with some of the newer models but for 28K it beats the hell out of PASSATs and 6 cylinder hondas.
The 9-3 SE is a great alternative to paying 31K for a loaded Passat. Show me a loaded BMW or A4 or Lexus IS 300 for 28 K and I will show you a used vehicle. More over, why did the SAAB 9-3 suddenly get so unrewarding to drive. Last time C&D test drove the car, they liked it enough to rank it third. Of course since then all the new car makers with the exception of Audi have introduced new and improved models. If I could buy a loaded BMW or AUDI for 28K I would. As a native New Englander, you learn early in life that smart people just don't spend money on a depreciating asset to show they have too much money and not enough frugality. I see a SAAB and I say that person understands value and doed not care if others applaud his purchasing decisions. Frankly I test drove the 3 series and the Audi when I bought my SAAB along with a 300M and an Acura TL and none of them came close for pure driving pleasure. The SAAB has better acceleration than all and its brakes were better than the Auid, the TL and 300 M. I see lots of 3 series cars and A-4s. I can't help feeling like they are the size of a Honda Civic. Just too small for a burly New Englander. Christ, I can't load 3 drunken skiers into a 3 series with gear for road trip to Killington in a snow storm can I? Who the hell needs a rear wheel drive BMW in the snow belt. The Audi offers too little value compared to the 4 motion Passat and the volvo until recently was a brick. Forget about negotiating a decent price on the new MB. SO what is left for those of us who don't desire to spend more money than is necessary to by a true sports sedan? C&D has and continues to be drunk on Race track/sea level tests/fair weather testing of their sports sedans.
Get real: Take the damn rear wheel drive Lexus, BMW and MB and the Volvo, the SAAB and drive from Kansas City to Park City utah in mid-January.
Then tell me how well rwd handles in the higher elevations in a snow storm.
Keep on SAABING. SAABS are the right car for the cognocenti.
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