[Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Richard, you're right. Sometimes, you have to decide whether you want more "features" or more "car". And we won't all share the same opinion of what more "car" really means. I still prefer the SAAB. But I wouldn't put down others for choosing another brand. We all have different perceptions about what is best, or at least what is best for us. Most of us don't buy cars on purely "objective" terms, do we? I know SAAB fans don't. There's a lot of subjective, emotional stuff thrown into the mix as well. That's what makes SAAB, and some other brands, such an "experience" to own. Like my old Alfa GTV.....ahhhh.
Somewhere else on the board is a discussion about the Jetta GLX versus the 9-3. The guy was trying to say that he could get all goodies and options on the VW for far less than an equally equipped SAAB 9-3. True enough, I guess. But the Jetta GLX, while a nice car, isn't really comparable to the 9-3, at least not to me. I'd gladly do without some of the features the guy loved in the Jetta GLX (leather, power sunroof, wood trim, power operated and heated seats, etc.)and settle for a "base" 9-3. Why? Because for me, while the Jetta GLX is a nice car, especially the VR6, with many features for the money, the SAAB is more "car".
Maybe some folks out there feel a similar situation when trying to look at BMW versus SAAB. When comparing true "delivered, out the door" prices, there is no question the SAAB can be had for significantly less money,and that they are a great value for the money. But, to some people, the BMW may strike them as more "car", and they may feel its worth the price, for them. And good for them, if they want it and can afford it.
But, to play devil's advocate for a moment, SAAB "sticker" prices are also a joke, aren't they? Don't get me wrong, it's a buyers market for SAAB fans. But the fact that SAABS (at least the 9-3) can be purchased for thousands under sticker, even early in the model year,or leased at very low, GM sub-sidized lease rates, can not be very good for the long term reputation and future of the brand, can it? Isn't this going to end up being a double-edged sword for SAAB? Much as I love those Viggens, that model hasn't been much of a real success for SAAB, hasn't it? They've had to unload them at the end of the each model year, with huge incentives, just to get them off dealer's lots. Even though it's a great car. And the continued poor resale value has to be an ongoing sore spot for SAAB as well. SAABS make a great used car value, to SAAB loyalists, but no one else is usually interested in them. And so their value is relatively poor compared to other "premium" brands.
Maybe SAAB should sticker price its cars more reasonably in the first place, and stop worrying about trying to compete with BMW on an equal footing. I loved my old Classic 900, and I'd love a new 9-3. For myself, I couldn't care less whether my SAAB is as "good" as a BMW. I'm not a BMW fan, but that doesn't mean I begrudge them their ability to make some damn fine cars. They' re just not for me. And probably not for most folks on this board either.
BMW makes some fine cars. So does Audi. So does SAAB. You pay your money and you make your choice. To each his (or her) own. Speaking of BMW's, wasn't there a guy out there switching to BMW (chrisg? maybe?)from the 9-3? And I remember that you were taking some flak from some of the folks on the board, good natured flak, I hope. Did you take delivery yet? I recall you were maybe going to post your thoughts. I'd be interested in reading them. Hope you decide to post your BMW impressions. Good luck with your new car.
, Thu, 9 Nov 2000 10:11:02
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.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
