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Need advice on purchase decision for 2006 9-3 Convertible

by drmoore24 on Tue Jul 07 21:36:58 PDT 2009

I have recently test driven a Saab which previously wasn't on my short list. I am moving on from a Volvo and did not really want to get back into another luxury car due to the maintenance costs. But as much as I try, I am having a hard time not liking this car. I am concerned about a couple of things after reading several posts in the forum. What will the car be worth in five years relative to what is going on with GMC? Also, what are some prices for routine maintenance? It seems that brake service is pretty pricey. In terms of the cost of the vehicle, it is a 2006 9-3 Convertible with approx. 26,000 miles. The dealer is asking $21,900. Any advice on what I should offer would be appreciated. I would like to get as far under $20,000 as I can. Thanks.

Re: to buy or not to buy [observer22]

by esobel on Tue Jul 07 19:24:01 PDT 2009

New Nissan Sentras are ugly as sin. I never realized how awesome 2008-09 9-3's headlights look in the dark: http://hyperleggera.com/wp-content/images/Inline/2008_11_14_Saab_Turbo_X_15.jpg (pic doesn't do it justice, but it's the best I could find). I saw one on the road last night (had never seen one in the dark). Makes me want to buy one even more for the unique headlights. I'd say they trump the Audi R8 which I saw last night too.

Re: to buy or not to buy [scaredtobuy1]

by observer22 on Wed Jul 01 01:31:41 PDT 2009

Test drive the most expensive Nissan Sentra.....the Spec-V. Nissan has the Sentra reborn as a much larger car with a very good interior, light years better than previous Sentras of even five years ago. Current Sentra is almost identical in exterior size and interior dimensions as the Saab 9-3. Sentras with the 170 and 200HP engines are faster than the Saab 9-3. Also consider these advantages: * much more mechanically reliable * much, much better resale * better real world fuel mileage * no stress on you. Nissan will be around in the years ahead, Saab may not be and even if Saab stays in business it could leave the American market as Peugeot and Renault (twice) has done. My local Saab dealer dropped Saab to concentrate on Mitsubishi. Yes.....Mistsubishi. Saab's can never live down their richly deserved reputation of the worst resale value possible and constant mechanical problems.

Re: Too good to be true [jayrider]

by hgershman on Thu Jun 25 12:39:05 PDT 2009

Actually didn't even look at the new Saab. This was a purely hypothetical discussion. You think GMAC would cave on their "no dickering" on lease residual rule? Worth a try , I guess. Thanks.

Re: Too good to be true [hgershman]

by jayrider on Thu Jun 25 12:22:08 PDT 2009

Do you really like the new saab? Is the 4 year service/warranty still in effect? Make sure warranty work is available. CR recommends them. There are independent shops that can handle service. If you keep it 8-9 years it won't matter much re depreciation -- donate it to a worthy charity. If you buy you won't be able to resell or trade without taking a severe beating. If you really like the car ask for another 1500 off and settle for a grand. You could also offer 12k for your lease -- see what happens.

Too good to be true

by hgershman on Thu Jun 25 10:39:33 PDT 2009

My 2006 93 lease set to expire. Dealer desperate to sell me similar 2009 93. Willing to go as low as 22,500 on $31 MSRP or so and eat my last three payments. I know it makes mathematical sense. The resid value on the lease car is 17,500 or so. Still comes down to "Should I buy a Saab?" Any insights? Thanks.

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