2003-2011 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
I'm going to start with the result first: I went with the Saab 9-3...again. I am turning in my 99 9-3 for a 05 Linear this weekend!
A couple of weeks ago, I want to check out some cars before I made my final decision. I think the most disconcerting thing about the S40 is how tiny it is. There is absolutely no space inside. The 9-3 is much larger, yet feels much lighter on its feet too. The S40 feels extremely heavy. The Volvo turbo is quick, but the whole car does not seem like it's willing to have fun. The automatic makes the car extremely boring. The manual is much more fun, but the clutch is heavier, and my right foot kept hitting the side of the footwell, NOT a good sign. Again...tiny car. Ridewise, the S40 AWD is terrible. It's rock hard. There is no give in the suspension at all, and nothing can be called comfortable about the ride at all. I wouldn't say it's a sporty ride, just a poor ride.
The interior of the Volvo is more stylish than the Saab, but I feel the 9-3 is a little more functional and less gimmicky. So what if the S40 has this flat panel...the space behind is a complete waste. There is little storage room in the Volvo. Seats felt more naturally comfortable in the 9-3, although the Volvo is not bad.
Crucial for me was having ESP, which is an option on the S40, and extremely hard to get.
I have to say I was extremely disappointed by the S40. It did not live up to expectations of a fun car at all. Judged simply as cars, the 9-3 is a much better choice, regardless of pricing or dealer experience. You'll be much more comfortable in the Saab.
posted by 68.198....
, Sun, 22 May 2005 02:07:35
No Site Registration is Required to Post - Site Membership is optional (Member Features List), but helps to keep the site online
for all Saabers. If the site helps you, please consider helping the site by becoming a member.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
