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Lisa,
Let me start off by saying that my experiences with the 9-3 come from a 1999 SE convertible and SE hatchback experience. My 9-5 experience comes from a 2000 Aero wagon. Here are my assessments:
1999 9-3SE Convertible
Pros-Great looks, passenger and luggage capability for a convertible, many inexpensive to expensive mods to choose from.
Cons-Very flexy body, mediocre handling, fussy soft top, lots of interior squeaks and rattles. Creaking sound from front suspension. Ride is the worst of the three. Turbo lag which is much worse during hot weather.
1999 9-3SE Hatchback
Pros- Stiff chassis, good handling, large hatch capacity. Most Saab-like. Many inexpensive to expensive mods to choose from. Ride is better than the convertible but not as compliant as the 9-5.
Cons- Only a couple of interior squeaks. Same creaking sound from front suspension as the convertible. Turbo lag which is much worse during hot weather.
2000 9-5 Aero Wagon
Pros- Stiff chassis, excellent handling due to the Aero suspension. Large cargo capacity. Ride is the best of the three. No squeak or rattles to be found today. Build quality seems the best of the three. Dual climate controls! No more fighting with the spouse No turbo lag even during hot weather! More rear leg room than most cars in its class. Better overall gas mileage than either 9-3SEs. More comfort features included/optioned vs. the 9-3s.
Cons- Least Saab-like. Fewer aftermarket options vs. the 9-3, which are usually expensive.
If you ask me, I would go with the 9-5 just because the build quality seems to be better which translates to fewer squeaks and rattles in or outside the car. In regards to the V6, I had a chance to test drive a 2000 and found it to be quicker than the base model and quieter. The only reason I know of people steering away for the V6 is because every 60K miles, you need to replace the timing chain and pulleys which is a recommendation. The 2.3 and 2.0 engines don't require this added maintenance as soon. Hope this helps.
posted by 24.6.36...
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