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On Friday I swapped my 2003 9-3 Vector for the 2006 9-3 Aero. Unbelievable what a difference 2 cylinders can make. As soon as I started it up I sensed the difference. Then I rolled out of the dealership and onto the interstate and took-off. There's something to that born of jets crap Madison Avenue is feeding us. It reminded me of my days behind the wheel of a 55 Chevy with a 348, but quieter and more refined. There's that little sensation where you're pushed back into your seat and the cars behind you quickly become smaller in the rear view mirror. Anyway, a few questions for anyone who may know. Despite having read a few short blurbs in some of the automotive monthlys, there's been nothing really definitive about the overall improvements or changes. Clearly the engine is new but I sense other subtle differences. For instance the 6 speed seems more precise with slightly shorter throws. Is the tranny different then the Vector or is it my imagination? The Vector had a hard, bone jarring ride on uneven pavement but the Aero seems better damped. Again, changes to the suspension or my imagination? The steering, though just as precise, seems a bit lighter. Is it me or was the steering modified? Seems there's a bit more lean in the Aero as opposed to the Vector. Me, or changes? The clutch seems smoother and more sensitive. Me or is it improved? Even the seat belts have a more positive feel. And the door handles are body color instead of black then grey then white.
There are other subtle changes, some not to my liking. I find the carpeting to be more like a 1972 Chevy Vega then the Vector's richer tweed. The rear windows are no longer express up. I guess a safety feature. No more ashtray to store additional quarters. (I live in NYC where a quarter buys you only 10 minutes in some parts of town so one needs to have more quarters then the console coin holder allows). But I can live with it all because that engine more then makes up for the loss of space to store quarters. Frankly, I can't understand why Saab has such a hard time making a profit. It's such a terrific little package for the money.
So if anyone out there knows, in detail, all the refinements and improvements, I'd like to hear from you.
Oh, yeah, Laser Red.
posted by 68.199.15...
, Mon, 20 Feb 2006 14:04:04
, Mon, 20 Feb 2006 16:23:20, Mon, 20 Feb 2006 14:06:08, Sun, 19 Feb 2006 12:27:50
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