Date: Thu, 13 May 2004 13:28:25 GMT From: -Bob- <uctraingNOSPAMnospamanet.com> Subject: Re: Any feedback on 2004 convertibles?
On Thu, 13 May 2004 01:17:36 GMT, Peter <garbagenospamsafe.com> wrote: >Yep, It is based on the completely new Sedan version of 2003. > >Does not seem to be any owners in this forum though. > >Do you have the 2003? Any comments if you do? > >Thanks I have an older convertible. Here's the deal though... aside from the roof mechanism and the back seat (size), the 'vert is the same as the normal 9~3. So, you might want to rephrase your questions to "what do you guys think of the new 9~3 in terms of ?. Be specific, because you'll get lots of "it ain't no classic" and "I don't like body shapes that we're designed after 1989". So you might want to say "How's the handling and engine performance of the new 2003 or higher 9~3 ?" or similar Back to the 'vert. The basic differences with _any_ convertible are quality of the top, operation of the top, body flex, and changes in weight distribution. You also have the "small truck" issue to go with the "small back seat" issue. As to quality and operation of the top, Saab is at the top. Well insulated, well designed, suitable for year round use without any consideration as to the weather conditions. Glass window, no complaints there. Body flex is an issue with all convertibles. Drive one on a washboard road around a corner with the top down. You'll feel it. Or, accelerate on a washboard road with the top down - again, you'll get a little body flex. It's not uncomfortable, but it's there. You might also find that the doors bounce a little on a rough road. That's a feature of life in convertibles. But, the issues are small and unless you plan to run at Monte Carlo, not really an issue. If you want more handling (from any Saab) you can change a few things to make it more aggressive. On the space issues: decide if you care. Convertibles can haul the groceries, but I had to put the top down when I hauled the 27" TV box home (Of course, I could put it back up once it was loaded in the back seat. I carry a large blanket in the trunk for when I need to put something on the leather seats. The bask seat will be tight for anyone but kids but it is useable. Don't expect Jr. to be able to lay down and take a nap though. All in all, I don' think there are many cars in competition with the Saab. The BMW 3 series is probably the only comparable car. The Volvo is, well, a Volvo. If you want to drive a tank, have at it. So, drive a Saab and see what you think. There's something to be said for a turbo that is attractive to the technologically inclined. Also, you should try it on the highway, maybe a nice run in second gear from 30mph up to highway speeds. That's where Saabs shine... mid range acceleration. Last but not least: The reason I would not buy a first year convertible is that a new top most always has some engineering issues to be worked out. Saab is very, very good about supporting customers and if they find any issues they most always conduct a "goodwill" campaign where they correct the problem regardless of whether you are having the symptoms. But, convertible tops are moderately complex these days and I like to se the bugs worked out first. MHO.
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