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Like others, I've had no long-term experience, but, like others, I was seriously considering it when I bought my used 9-3. I think kaslop hit most of the points on the head. I just want to add my reinforcement on how well it handles. Turn-in is precise, and steering is balanced. The clutch and shifter feel so clean and good. Around town and on curvy roads, it's more fun to drive than the Saab.
It doesn't have the power of the Saab, and while it's light enough that you don't notice around town, you will notice on the highway. To get it to accelerate at highway speeds, you need to wind the engine up. Not that that isn't fun, but I guess we Saab people just like to have that "stealth" power...power without high rpms.
It's also not built like a Saab. The plastic metallic trim on the inside is potentially the cheapest trim I've seen on any car I've driven. Everything is thin and light, and that means it will be less stable at speed, it will be less durable, and it will not protect you as well in a crash.
For me, it was a close decision, and part of the decision I made was based on the fact that the Saab was cheaper. If I had to buy a new (not used) car right now, it would probably be the Protege5. And with big incentives on the Mazda, if I had to make my decision again, it would be even closer.
Still, I'm glad I got the Saab. I've now driven between Boston and New York twice in near-blizzard conditions, and it continues to impress me. I wouldn't feel nearly as safe in the Mazda; it doesn't have the weight or the stability. The handling deficiencies of the Saab (relative to the Mazda) can be improved somewhat with a steering rack clamp and brace...I can't tell you how much since I haven't done it yet.
If you do a lot of highway driving, I'd say definitely get the Saab. Otherwise, test drive, think about it, price out your options.
Matt
'99 9³
posted by 12.101.2...
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