1999-2009 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup
Okay, I've been lurking here for a couple of years now. I'm looking to become a new member of the SAAB family. I have just a few questions. I'm sure a lot of these have been discussed (yes, I search here religiously) but I want some more input as to if this is the right decision for me knowing obviously that only I can make that decision.
First off, I'm 37 and in Sales. I drive a Maxima because I got a new 2003 SE loaded at invoice -- I couldn't pass it up. After having owned a '97 M3 (can't fit clients into it) and a 2000 Lexus GS 400 (too rich for some clients blood) I'm tired of driving a stick. It's become a thorn in my side, but I still do like the car.
A fraternity brother of mine in 1984 owned an SPG. Man, that thing was sweet. It was my first introduction to SAAB. Wanting a new car, I've been round and round and round about what to get. I still have my Nissan connection if I want it, but with the production in TN (where I live) and hearing some of the horror stories, I don't really want to go that route.
BMW is out -- to expensive (not to mention the Bangle fiasco) as is any Lexus. Besides, I still have clients that I don't want to turn off by what I drive. However, being a Sales Manager, I thing I can upgrade my options somewhat.
So, I keep coming back to the SAAB 9-5. I test drove a 2004 AERO in Memphis just a couple of weeks ago and really liked it. I view it as luxurious enough to slip under the radar in terms of the compeition and by those viewing what I drive, yet practical enough to have a large car (IMO) closer to the size of the Lexus (maybe a little stretch.) I've read everyone's postings regarding reliability, but I guess it really boils down for me that not everyone drives these things. I like that. I need something that I won't have to worry about -- Mike Lynch -- I think you've sold me on that understanding that something can go wrong with every car and that 9-5's are above average in reliability. I need to have this car a long time as the wife is getting irritated by the fact that I trade cars every couple of years.
So my questions and comments are as follows (sorry if some of these are redundant):
1. If you could buy another 9-5 right now, would you (be honest)?
2. I'm real curious as to what the MCE will look like next year. Do I go ahead and buy a 2005 or roll the dice? If I wait, do I run the risk of inheriting "new" gremlins in the new design not knowing how long it will take to iron them out?
3. I do a lot of highway driving. Is this car really as comfortable on long trips as everyone says? As a follow up, are the non-ventilated seat relly more supportive than the ventilated? I've heard both sides on this as I really would like the ventilated but don't want to run the risk of tearing up the perforated leather.
4. Does the fact that this is a 4 cyl. create any issues with vibration given that it is inherent in this type engine, or is really not that noticable? I didn't notice any on my test drive on the interstate.
5. Can you get tinting done by SAAB? I see the pictures from the website and every car looks great with the darker windows -- I'd love for mine to look like that.
Lastly, if you made it this far -- I appreciate it. You guys are a wealth of knowledge and I appreciate all of your postings. I'm looking forward to the responses.
Best Regards,
...Scott H.
posted by 69.137.72...
, Thu, 18 Nov 2004 12:29:36
, Tue, 16 Nov 2004 17:25:58
, Tue, 16 Nov 2004 16:27:09, Tue, 16 Nov 2004 14:07:15
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.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
