Other Saab 9-3 (1998 - 2003) models:

  • Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Stands out from the pack, has sensibility to buy a 9-3 and not a Mondeo or Vectra

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

    Friends think it is great, one has bought one of the newer models on the strength of the reviews given by me. Other half is not the biggest fan due to the noisy diesel. Everyone who rides in it remarks upon its comfort.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes, I'd buy a new one.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    When this current 9-3 becomes 10 he's going to be sacrificed for the scrappage against a brand new Volvo V-70 R-Design.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £1,600

    When did you buy the car?

    January 2009

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    A very good deal, was sold through eBay and sold as seen... After a visit to see the car I could see it was a bargain.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    It was cheap!

    What was the dealer like?

    Just a fellow from Wisbech.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    A little bit rough at lower speeds emits tractor like noises... Cruises like a dream at motorway speeds, it ate a round trip of 2500 miles to Southern France comfortably and quickly.

    What's it like to park?

    Not too bad, a wiggle to straighten up is sometimes required (or perhaps that's just me?)

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Yes, a pipe split causing it to lose coolant, a cheap self fix. Unfortunately the turbo then failed (July 2009) with a replacement cost of £822.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Load space, 48/50mpg fuel consumption, very comfortable.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Steering wheel stereo controls, cruise control and air con.