SAAB 9-5 V6 3.0 tdi

[junglie]

Hi,

I am doing 24,000 motorway miles a year and am looking for a car for arond 5K to do the daily grind. I want a large capacity diesel and understand the Vectra and 9-5 are based on the ssme chassis and running gear. I have not driven either but would welcome any views on the Saab (or vectra if you have run/driven both). Would prefer a manual car to extract the limited excitment a motorway journey can provide!

Thanks in advance.

[siwil1]

The vectra and 9-5 share the same platform but not running gear and they are chalk and cheese on the road, 9-5 is far superior. The seats in the 9-5 are the comfiest in the business and you will always arrive at the other end feeling fresh whatever the distance. cant comment on the engine as ive never driven the diseasal.

[John D9395]

Have had a 3.0 TiD estate from new (04).

As previous post, the seats are one of the best in class.

The only problem I have had in 120k miles is the trailing arms between the anti roll bar and suspension (£40 parts plus a couple of hours labour), and the fuel pump at 106k miles. Not so cheap, had it done at Simply Saab Bristol. Great garage, who had a 2nd hand unit that had done 29k. Total cost £1,300 (estimate of £2,500 at main dealer!). Given that is my only repair beyond general servicing, I am very happy with the car / running costs.

At 120k, it still drives well, returns 37 / 38 mpg.

Have never driven a petrol 9-5, so can't coment on other varients.

Happy hunting