I'm looking at a '99 Saab 9-3 base manual as a winter beater. I like the turbo power, decent gas mileage (and relatively long range), and comfort. Any horror stories out there?
I'm looking at a '99 Saab 9-3 base manual as a winter beater. I like the turbo power, decent gas mileage (and relatively long range), and comfort. Any horror stories out there?
I think they are one of the best deals in used cars right now. A quick tune (there are even freeware ways to do it) can yield 250+ hp.
It also seems like the used part selection is awesome, and the prices low.
Beware of torque steer. Even at a stock 185hp, the turbos have a LOT of it. Supposedly a steering rack brace helps a lot.. but torque steer was the main reason I hated mine and went running back to an original 900 turbo
In reply to mad_machine:
Did you like it as a daily? I have a '91 MR2 for fun, the Saab would be almost 100% highway miles back and forth to work in the winter.
I want a low mileage manual one to show up on cl. Unfortunately, they are all convertible. Awesome looking cars, when not vert.
Absolutely love our Saab (2007 Saab 9-3). Reliable, comfortable, fast, and fun 
I used our 99 9-3 as a DD for 6 years or so and gave it to my brother with just under 300K on it. They are a nice place to spend time and like was said above it is easy and cheap to turn up the wick.
Benswen wrote: In reply to mad_machine: Did you like it as a daily? I have a '91 MR2 for fun, the Saab would be almost 100% highway miles back and forth to work in the winter.
it was not a bad daily driver.. nice and comfy with plenty of power for when it needed to be quick. I just hated the lack of support in the leather seats (I could slide out of them pulling out of my driveway) and the torque steer.
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