1999 Saab 9-3 Review

I'll Really Miss this Car

Written by: RBG on 09/04/2009

Vehicle

1999 Saab 9-3 4 Dr SE Turbo Hatchback

Review

Purchased new and drove it for 10 years and 187,000 miles. I expect it had another 100,000 miles in it. It ended service prematurely after it was rear ended. The vehicle did its job and all occupants walked away with no or very minor injuries. Thanks engineers and assemblers! I'll really miss this car. It did so many things well-a good blend of design, performance, build quality, economy and utility. And it was FUN to drive everyday. Others correctly point out proper routine maintenance is required. It's not necessarily expensive. Like all vehicles Saabs have quirks and some common part failures. To me they were either endearing or minor annoyances. I'm looking for another one.

Favorite Features

Good interior ergonomics. Firm and crisp handling-always felt surefooted. Super comfortable seats (I'm 6'4"). Turbo from 30-70 mph. Weather band radio. Last but not least-they are real-world safe. Look up IIHS injury rates.

Suggested Improvements

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Saab 9-3 SE 4 dr Auto

Written by: pmcag on 08/28/2009

Vehicle

1999 Saab 9-3 4 Dr STD Turbo Hatchback

Review

Bought a 9-3 with 65,000 mi and have been pretty happy. Don't like the auto climate system - defaults to air cond. in summer. Good fuel mileage. Much more power than my accord ex V-Tech. Oil changes are easy. Keeping my fingers crossed that nothing major happens like an engine seizure due to oil pickup getting blocked.

Favorite Features

Pickup, steering.

Suggested Improvements

Keep making them GM.

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Motorcycle alternative

Written by: Mid life crisis car on 07/01/2009

Vehicle

1999 Saab 9-3 2 Dr SE Turbo Convertible

Review

I bought my 99 Saab convertible as a second car. I brought it to a SAAB only local service shop that has taken care of all the basics. Now, I get to drive. I love this car. It has great pick up, is very comfortable, and is lots of fun. I'm not sure about other guys, but this is a great alternative to a motorcycle for me. (I tend to not pay attention when I drive!). Yes, the 9-3 has quirks and leaks, etc. But I am so tired of seeing stupid expensive 323's on the road... and this car is perfect for me.

Favorite Features

Pick up, comfort, gas mileage, radio, convertible, little quirks. Not a lot of people have these cars which makes it even more fun to drive.

Suggested Improvements

Better quality parts.

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Great on Highway, Hard on your Wallet

Written by: ifthecar on 04/11/2009

Vehicle

1999 Saab 9-3 2 Dr STD Turbo Convertible

Review

I purchased the my 9-3 Convertible with 18K miles and now has 107K. When running, it is great on the highway, and so much fun with the top down. The great things are the stereo, very comfortable seats (could easily drive cross country). The bad things: I had it break down 3 times (would not start), and each time it would cost around $1000 to fix. The build quality is not good, and my top had to be replaced even though it is suppose to last a lifetime. Buy this car for a great ride, but expect to pay for maintenance.

Favorite Features

Leather Seats, heated seats, great stereo

Suggested Improvements

Better cup holders, HUD displays burns out all the time

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Repairs on high mileage '99 9-3

Written by: nhundt on 09/02/2008

Vehicle

1999 Saab 9-3 4 Dr STD Turbo Hatchback

Review

Regretfully gave up my 99 9-3 today. After 136K miles it was costing a fortune in repairs & replacements: fuel pump ($700), electronic ignition computer ($700), air vent selector switch broke nearly 1/2 doz. times. Now the engine gaskets are leaking coolant into the crankcase, front struts need replacing, and soon it will need a new clutch. Some items (e.g. clutch) are expected but other repairs were an expensive annoyance compared to '84 Celica which this car replaced. With my 9-3's book value next to nothing, chose to avoid throwing more $ at this car; I purchased an '08 Civic EX-L instead. Conclusion: Saabs will see hi miles only if you spend big bucks to keep 'em going.

Favorite Features

Comfy leather seats, handling & pickup comparable (if not better than) a BMW

Suggested Improvements

Air vent selector switch always breaks - made a cheap plastic crap. After market parts hard to come by.

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