Date: 04 Feb 2002 04:12:45 GMT From: jmel5nopsamcomnospam (JMEL5) Subject: Test Drove a 9-5 Aero
I had the chance to test drive a 9-5 Aero (US) the other day, and I thought that I would post my thoughts on that drive. At first I was a bit lukewarm on the car until I got to a highway ramp and really put the car through the paces and in third gear I was pinned in my seat by the sheer force of the acceleration, though I did have to deal with a ton of torque steer. By the time I hit the highway, I was at about 75 or so and the car was incredibly stable at speed and I didn't even realize how fast I was going. It was a very, very smooth ride. My only problems with the car were that the shifter seemed a bit rubbery and the brake and accelerator pedal were quite close together and my foot kept hitting the brake when I lifted off of the gas. After that test I tested a BMW 530. That was an amazingly solid car with super handling, but, I never got that kick in the pants that I got from the Aero, and the car always felt to be going faster than it actually was. I think that overall the BMW was a more luxurious car, but when you factor in such things as that here in the states you will almost never get a deal on a BMW due to supply and demand, I think that I would go for the Saab. The choice unfortunately isn't mine to make as I was just helping a friend out who is choosing between the two cars. He is going to go for the BMW, and I guess I can't blame him. This test drive really strengthened my desire for a 9-3 Viggen (US) as I sat in a few of those at the dealer and loved the dash layout, and the seats were some of the most comfortable and supportive that I ever sat in. Now I know why people love Saabs so dearly. JJ