Saab 9-3 Convertible (2003 - 2011) 1.8t Vector Sport 2d (07) (2008/08) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Mid-life crisis. After I bought it, I admit I felt a bit self-conscious. Hardly ever put the hood down. Too bright, too breezy, too much feeling of being a poseur.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They have a respectable image, but I have to say I think this is undeserved - and probably only persists beacause most people don't know a lot about them. If they knew the reality - most would be very unimpressed.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Absolutely not. I bought this when I was newly divorced - please beware if this could be you. It looks good, but take my advice - DON'T BUY A NEWISH PRESTIGE OR 'SPORTY' CAR AT ALL, unless you have a virtually unlimited income to back it up, and don't care about the massive depreciation. Buy an old classic maybe, but CERTAINLY, DON'T BUY ONE OF THESE! Ultimately, they all fail to deliver what's promised and will only put your heart in your mouth every time you need fuel, service, new tyres, an MOT, road tax (£433pa - absolutely extortionate for a car that is only moderately quick.)

What are you likely to buy next?

Not a Saab.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£19,000

When did you buy the car?

October 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

Apparently not! I bought it for £19000 and they offered me £13500 when I traded it today, 8 months later.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Also looked at a Porsche Boxster, but Saab had 4 seats, was cheaper, and looked good. It was one of the most costly days of my life!

What was the dealer like?

Pleasant, until today - then I felt completely ****ted.

What's it like to drive?

I had mine chipped by Saab to 195hp, and still feels a bit sluggish. Handling does not inspire confidence.

What's it like to park?

Very awkward. Massive blindspots on rear quarters when hood is up. Also generally very hard to judge length of the front, and width of car. Overall - deceptive and awkward to park.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Drivers electric window anti-pinch mechanism gone wrong. Have to coax it to close very slowly, in stages, otherwise re-opens to halfway on its own. An infuriating fault. Feels generally "soft" and fragile.

What's most practical about your car?

Can be impressive, but this is only superficial and temporary.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?