Saab 9-3 Convertible: 2.0 vs 2.8V6 vs Diesel!

[malc350]

Hi, I'm looking at 9-3 Convertibles lately. My preference was for a 2.0 litre and had ruled out diesels, mainly because I prefer petrol cars. I'd have my van as a petrol if I could have bought one!

Only reason i've suggested diesel here is because I've found one that looks like a peach in terms of how well it's been looked after whih compares favourably with the petrol ones I've looked at which have clearly not had a penny spent on them.

I've found a V6 for sale but it's a long way off but they are super-rare which gives it some appeal.

Fuel economy is not a big priority as I have a daily but can anyone comment on the engine choices, especially if they have owned more than one variant?

Cheers

[biggbn]

Ran a v6 manual, smooth, quick, even relatively frugal. Felt much more special than four pot

[TwyRob]

Avoid the Diesel. It's the Fiat JTD essentially, with associated EGR, DPF, Swirl Flap concerns.

As for the petrols, the 2.0 Aero is my pick (twice in a row now) due to the reliability and ease of DIY working compared to the v6. The v6 is lovely but there are a few more engine issues and Noobtune can get the 2.0 up to the same power levels very easily.

Look out for balance chain noise on start up from the 2.0. Also, if the power steering fluid is overflowing it needs a flush and a seal replacing between it and the engine.

Good luck!