9-3 Convertible - worth a punt?
Discussion
All,
Due to an outbreak of common sense we are looking at replacing our MX-5 and MINI Clubman with just one car, ideally a convertible and big enough to use as a sensible car (Currently 2 + small dog + luggage).
Thoughts started with a BMW E46 of some description, but it seems that a newer, lower mileage 9-3 can be had for similar money.
It doesn't have to be hugely thrilling to drive (we have another car for that), we just want something competent. Is it reasonably stiff? How good is the heater (winter topless fun is essential)? Does the hood insulate well? etc etc
Are there any particular issues we should look out for or models to avoid? Budget would be up to £5k (although less is better). Is this likely to get us something that would last a few years of light to moderate use without major upset?
They certainly look like they fit the bill, but what are they actually like to own?
Thanks,
James
Due to an outbreak of common sense we are looking at replacing our MX-5 and MINI Clubman with just one car, ideally a convertible and big enough to use as a sensible car (Currently 2 + small dog + luggage).
Thoughts started with a BMW E46 of some description, but it seems that a newer, lower mileage 9-3 can be had for similar money.
It doesn't have to be hugely thrilling to drive (we have another car for that), we just want something competent. Is it reasonably stiff? How good is the heater (winter topless fun is essential)? Does the hood insulate well? etc etc
Are there any particular issues we should look out for or models to avoid? Budget would be up to £5k (although less is better). Is this likely to get us something that would last a few years of light to moderate use without major upset?
They certainly look like they fit the bill, but what are they actually like to own?
Thanks,
James
I have a 2006 9-3 'vert.
Great car, genuine 4 seater (4 adults). Good for 42mpg on long runs (mine is a Vector 1.9 diesel), around 38 around town,shorter commutes.
The only problems I have had are a slight gluing up of a valve due to diesel particulates (my fault as I hadnt taken her out for a good run for yonks so the small commute I did just didnt get her hot enough for long enough) and an alternator that packed in.
Comfortable and plenty warm enough with the hood down. Invest in a wind diffuser for when there is only 1 or 2 of you.
Have taken 3 people to the S of France fully loaded with the roof down and will be taking her over the French Alps this summer.
Was going to sell her and get something more exotic but have decided to keep her as she is so good.
I cannot fault the car tbh but am sad at Saab's demise as I would have considered the new model which was promised for 2013 I believe (before they went obviously)
Great car, genuine 4 seater (4 adults). Good for 42mpg on long runs (mine is a Vector 1.9 diesel), around 38 around town,shorter commutes.
The only problems I have had are a slight gluing up of a valve due to diesel particulates (my fault as I hadnt taken her out for a good run for yonks so the small commute I did just didnt get her hot enough for long enough) and an alternator that packed in.
Comfortable and plenty warm enough with the hood down. Invest in a wind diffuser for when there is only 1 or 2 of you.
Have taken 3 people to the S of France fully loaded with the roof down and will be taking her over the French Alps this summer.
Was going to sell her and get something more exotic but have decided to keep her as she is so good.
I cannot fault the car tbh but am sad at Saab's demise as I would have considered the new model which was promised for 2013 I believe (before they went obviously)
Roadster25 said:
Thanks for that.
9-3 now at the top of the list.
Nice one9-3 now at the top of the list.
I am just looking at getting the wheels refurbed on mine as they are a bit tired after 52k miles. Also I will be getting the roof redyed and sealed as she is now 6 years old. Luckily I only have a couple of chips and a very small scuff on the rear bumper (Tesco trolley height
) to sort and then with a good wash, wax and leather clean she will be pristine. Have had a few convertables in my time and the Saab is the only one that the wife hasnt moaned about getting her hair all blown around with the roof down!
I realise we arnt talking Ferrari's here and that I am the wrong end of the A429 to you but if you are down this way you are welcome to pop in and have a look-see. Just PM me.
cheers
My wife has an 07 2.8T which has a lovely sound but gives only 19mpg....I would however recommend the Saab as it give so much more £ per spec over the equivalent Audi & BMW etc.
In fact the only car that came close was the Volvo V70 convetible - it only lost out for us on boot space (2 small childeren + boot space required).
Cheers,
Mark
In fact the only car that came close was the Volvo V70 convetible - it only lost out for us on boot space (2 small childeren + boot space required).
Cheers,
Mark
My 9-3SS (2.0) Aero returned 39.2 mpg according to SID, and the petrol station, for this week's commute to work.
I was considering the 2.8 before this one came along, but I really could not justify the additional RFL, running costs and insurance for the extra performance gained. I also considered jumping ship and buying a 3 series BMW - a great friend and work colleague has one, and we have done many a mile to meetings we have hosted together with it.
However, our 9-3SS stands as the most economical Saab there's ever been in our fleet, plus one of the quickest - I have had driven various 9000's, 900's, classic 9-3's and 9-5's - loaned or owned.
For what the 9-3SS professes to be, it ticks all the boxes, for us.
I was considering the 2.8 before this one came along, but I really could not justify the additional RFL, running costs and insurance for the extra performance gained. I also considered jumping ship and buying a 3 series BMW - a great friend and work colleague has one, and we have done many a mile to meetings we have hosted together with it.
However, our 9-3SS stands as the most economical Saab there's ever been in our fleet, plus one of the quickest - I have had driven various 9000's, 900's, classic 9-3's and 9-5's - loaned or owned.
For what the 9-3SS professes to be, it ticks all the boxes, for us.
Edited by LesKellet on Saturday 26th May 23:49
I like the look of this. What should I look for, and what dark lurking problems are inherent to this kind of car... http://tinyurl.com/cfktyq7 how much is car tax? Oh and what major work would be around the corner given the mileage?
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