Used 2004 Saab 9-3 Convertible Consumer Reviews
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I don't get it.
Just purchased a used 9-3 2004 arc automatic. It has a 100000 miles on it. This is by far the nicest car I have ever driven. I don't understand why the reviews are so mixed on this car. Now you can get a $40000 vehicle for under $10000. All I hear is people complaining about little things on this car. Performance, ride, and looks, three great reasons to buy it. I test drove others in this price range of $8000, nothing came close!
Great car
My 2004 Saab 9-3 convertible has been wonderful. Fun to drive, with an amazing acceleration on a 4-cylinder turbo engine. When going out with the family, we use the back seats which seat adults comfortably, although a bit cramped, but this beats a 2-seater any day. Reliability has been good, and the car has been well maintained. Only complaint is occasional problems with the electrical system: windows, convertible top, radio, ignition. None has been fatal but I have experienced 2 incidents where car would not start. Note: I have the automatic, not manual, model.
- Arc ConvertibleMSRP: $3,500846 mi away
- Aero ConvertibleMSRP: $9,875875 mi away
- Arc ConvertibleMSRP: $2,499911 mi away
2004 SAAB 9-3 ARC Convertible for the Masses
I truly believe that GM got it right when they retooled the 9-3 convertible for 2004. The older 9-3 convertibles had way too much flex in the chassis. Going over bumps made it feel like it was playing a game of Twister. 2004 convertible utilized GM's epsilon platform from Europe which firmed up the chassis 300%. Okay, maybe that's an exaggeration but it really is firm. Acceleration is more than adequate considering that the engine is a GM inspired 2-liter Ecotec engine with a turbo charger. Same basic engine as found in the old Chevy Cobalt
Great Used Car with Over 100K miles
I bought this car on a whim and it already had over 100,000 miles on it. Yes, 100,000. The car ran like new. Handles extremely well and to date (almost 12 months later) I've had no problems. There were some minor issues and with routine maintenance the total cost for the year is under $250!!! I've had no electrical, mechanical or other issues at all. This is one fun car to drive and has held up well. I've got over 125,000 miles on the car now.
A happy Saab owner
I feel very sad to see Saab went under. Its probably not surprising because today every car maker is going mainstream and the only way to survive is to get bigger, which Saab failed to achieve. But Saab definitely didn't fail to make a solid and sporty 9-3 convertible. They don't drive as well as a 3-series, but not off by much and the car itself is much, much more special. Not the mention the excellent value. Buy yourself a gently used 9-3 rag top today and find a trusted Saab shop, it will bring you years of happy top down motoring and attract lots of envy eyes.
Electrical issues
Overall, I love the car, but problems with electrical. Latest is left blinker won't go off. 1100 at the dealer to fix.
An underated fun car to drive
Unfortunately Saab gets bad press here in the States. This is a fun car to drive, handles well and the one fact overlooked is it's a safe car with many safety features for a convertible. I've owned many cars over the years and drove as much. The seats (where you spend most of your time) are extremely comfortable unlike the BMW convertible. A virtual maintenance free car that's a pleasure to own and drive.
People Smiler
This is my 3rd Saab, though first in 20 years. Never owned a car that made people break into big smiles before, though I suspect the electric lime/yellow has a wee bit to do with it. (What's the point in owning a conservative convertible, anyway?) Reluctantly traded in my 98 Jaguar XJR. Except for sheer power -- the Jag would get to 60 in 5.2 seconds -- the Aero appears far the better car. Tighter build, slick 6-speed, handles fabulously and the power curve suits the car well. Audis and BMWs are boring and dime-a- dozen in the Bay Area. They hold zero cachet. This car gets noticed (and I mean that in a positive way).
Score!
Just bought a 2002 Volvo s60 2.4T about a month ago. Some lady totaled it for me by smashing into the passenger side. Was devastated until I found the Arc convertible. Went out and got this beauty and cannot believe how much of a better car it is! And I am paying about the same for a newer car with better handling, more horsepower and less mileage. Score.
Wife's first new cabrio
We bought this car for my wife to drive while we are in Germany. The car is solid, fast, powerful, and a heck of a lot of fun to drive. Looked at Audi, Volvo, and BMW, and all seemed to lack the style of the Saab, plus everyone has a BMW or AUDI here. We live in the mountains and this car brings new life to the curvy roads. Great way to start and end a commute. That low-end torque and the Saab turbo beats the heck out of the competition on the flats/curves. The car handles corners, literally like it is on rails. The 6 speed manual is amazing and that extra gear helps on the Autobahns. Stereo sound is awesome, seats are confortable, quiet up to 100MPH
Quirky, but awesome!
I looked long and hard - BMW, Mustang, A4, Mini - the Saab ultimately was my favorite. I call it my Sensitive Swede - I've a handful of CELs, etc., (be sure to turn the car off when gassing up) but the dealer has been great, and even proactive with replacing some things. That said, what a ride - FAST, handles well, very comfortable. Beautiful design, great lines. I receive many compliments. This is a very sophisticated car, and daily I discover something new that impresses me.
I smile each time I drive this car!
I couldn't be more happy with this 9-3 convertible! Got an excellent price and love the way it drives and looks. I do feel like an individual on the road...you really don't see too many of them! The safety features are empressive. A lot of attention to detail...smart designing.
Wonderful touring convertible
Very good mileage, extremely high fun-to-drive quotient, intuitive controls, plethora of options at a very reasonable lease or used-car purchase price. Many cold-weather features make it a true 4-season vehicle. Good trunk space for a convertible. Opening/closing top is a spectator event. Auto with manual shifting helps the acceleration and overcomes the lack of low-end torque. When turbo kicks in, the high-pitched whine and burst of speed is exhilarating. Comfortable seating, much-improved visibility. Safety features are industry-leading (popup rollbars, best crash test scores). Rear-seat access is improved, although seating is tight.
I Love my car - but
I now have a 2004 Arc convertible. I love the car but I want it to behave. I traded a 2003 sedan on the conv. I have put 2 transmissions at 45,000 and 49,000 miles in both cars. If it weren't for a great service department at the Saab dealer, I would be looking for another make of car. I hope the last tranny will be the last tranny I need.
80% Fun, 20% Headache
Excellence: Good looks without being flashy. Superb power delivery, very smooth for a small displacement turbo. So quiet inside you forget its a convertible, comfy seats. Acceptable: "premium" sound system is mediocre at best. Tires break free pretty easily when accelerating from a stop into a turn, but with FWD kind of expected. Unacceptable: Spotty build quality results in buttons and interior surface's paint rubbing off. Electrical gremlins are a constant threat. Complexity of common tasks like resetting oil life monitor is way more difficult than it has to be. Saab-ness: Saab is often different just for difference sake. Like the "night panel" function.
Dave's Saab
My wife and I have owned Saab's for 20 years from the old 900's to the 9000 CD's. Our family now has 3 Saabs and the 2004 9-3 Saab Convertible is the outright best we have ever purchased. This car handles like a dream the interior is even better than the 2003 model for comfort. The only thing I wish Saab would do would be to get rid of the funky cup holder in the dash. With all the features in this car that should not be there. I can't wait to see what comes out next in the new Saab line up. We are waiting for the new 9-7 SUV to come over to trade our SUV. Thank you Saab for an out right fantastic driving experience. Definately fun to drive.
Mine all Mine
Very fun car to drive, and what's not to like about a convertible on Denver's sunshiney days? Driving in the light snow that Denver gets is another matter. Skids and slides a lot. Don't know if it's because I have performance tires or because it just can't handle snow.
totally underrated car
The Saab Aero convertible is a well designed, efficient, fun to drive machine. How many cars deliver 30 mpg at 80 mph? Great back-roads machine as well. The car exhibits minimal understeer. The Pirelli PZero Rosso's are responsive and provide a good ride despite their performance nature. This is my first Saab after owning them since 1979 with an automatic transmission. This is not just any automatic but an Aisin 5 speed unit that can be paddle shifted from the steering wheel. It is very smooth and responsive. Contrary to the drivel that is written by all the BMW lovers in the auto press the chassis has no flex, no rattles on any kind of road surface.
FUN FUN FUN!
WITH A FAMILY OF FOUR AND A BUDGET I HAD TO LIVE WITH, THERE WEREN'T ALL THAT MANY CHOICES. THE AUDI A4 I TEST HAD A ROUGH RIDE, THE SEBRING JUST DIDN'T DO IT EITHER AND THE BMW WAS OVERPRICED. I TEST DROVE THE SAAB AND HAVE LOVED IT EVER SINCE. IT'S NOT GOING TO BEAT ALOT OF CARS IN RACES, BUT THAT S NOT WHAT I BOUGHT THIS CAR FOR. ITS A FUN TO RIDE CAR. SMOOTH, EASY CONTROLS AND ENOUGH ROOM FOR FOUR. IF YOU CAN'T BUY THE DODGE VIPER CONVERTIBLE (MY DREAM CAR), WELL THEN THIS IS A GREAT FUN CAR.
Very good car
This is my first Saab, I'm really in love with this convertible. It's quick,handsome and fun to drive. I was in the BMW fellowship but I trade for the Saab. I drove the BMW 325 convertible and fells skimpy, may little more luxury inside but boring and when you add the extras the price go up!!! The Saab in the other hand is, clean,user friendly and the conering is awsome.
Finally a Fun car to drive!
Have the 9-3 convertible about a week, and can't stop smiling! This car is fun to drive, and every where I go people come up and say what a great looking car. If your looking at convertibles, do youself a favor and test drive the Saab.
New to a Convertible
I was looking for a convertible that was fun to drive, while at the same time practical for a family. Based upon extensive review, I settled for a 2004 Saab Aero Convertible. I am 6'2" and need a interior space. The Saab delivered. The 13 speaker stereo was awesome. The car handles great and has a back seat that can fit two teenage children.
BEST CONVERTIBLE CAR!
JUST PUT A SMILE IN YOUR FACE! GREAT CAR,NICE STYLE,ROOMI,PEPPY,A LOT FUTURES FOR YOUR BUCKS!
I live in Buffalo and my saab is great!
With gas prices going up I appreciate the choice I made going with a saab convertible even more. The car is solid, fast and performs great, with snow tires, in the snow. The car is reliable and the gray exterior with tan interior is a killer combination. The sports package is a must. Never got more looks or compliments on any car before.
'04 9-3 Convertible
Researched and test drove the '04 Audi A4 Quattro Conv. then the Saab. Although the quality of the interior of the Audi w/Quattro was very appealing, I love the overall style of the '04 Saab 9-3 Conv. (diff. from 2003) and perf. is very good for a 4 cyl/turbo. I highly recommend considering this car before you buy any other convertible in the price range.
I love my SAAB
The SAAB convertible is an excellent car to drive. The turbo acceleration makes it a dream on the highways. The top is extremely easy to take down. The SAAB's interior is purposely design to resemble a cockpit interior. This means the controls are all within easy reach of the driver.
in love with my new saab
i hate to get a new car, always disappointed - i am in love with this one. thanks saab
The best
Been driving Saab for a long time , I will continue to bye Saab for the confort, milage and looks specialy I love the convertible. Good work
Saab more bang for your buck!
The interior may be is simple, but very fuctional and neat, the seats are roomy,the trunk has a good space and you will save gas and money. It's fun to drive this car and very peppy!. For all the extras you will pay for others, you can drive this little devil!
Saab Hits Home Run with Aero Conv!
Great convertible! Shopped BMW 330 & Merc CLK. Saab had more value for the money, plus you don't see it everywhere like the BMW. Great engine and pickup with auto trans and paddle shifters. Most comfortable seats, except for Volvo C70. Car handles like a dream, takes hard turns with ease, handles rough roads well, 100 times better than the old model. No turbo lag, and really quick take-off when using the manual shift mode. Everything in this car has been well thought out. Thanks to Saab for a great alternative to the aging 330ci and over-priced CLK.
My Beautiful SAAB Convertible
The color of my SAAB Convertible is Espresso Brown, which is a metalic brown in the sun, and is beautiful!! Driving is fun and especially in Florida where you experience the warm weather in the winter. It has a lot of room in the rear seat. I have lots of admirers when on the road and in a parking lot!
VERY GOOD CAR! TRUE WINNER!
It's a very nice car,with all the toys for fun. Very responsive,handsome design.
first time saab owner
WOW-I drove every competitor and was amazed at the SAAB.
NICE.....
Since I am a quiet freak, I always avoided convertables but finally broke down and picked one up - and sure glad I chose the 9-3 Areo... Always liked the styling and was very impressed with the quick response, nimble handling, solid (but comfortable) ride, and nice sound system. The manual shift mode really enhances the performance and would challange anyone off the line. I love it's unique styling as it offers a breath of fresh air. Another great point is that we can get two full sets of golf clubs with other necessary stuff in the trunk WITH the top down - good luck trying that in one of the competing models...
I Love This Car!!!
Having owned several convertibles in my past, I was eager to step up to more luxurious appointments and amenities with my latest purchase. I was definitely in awe once I test drove (and eventually bought) the new Saab 9-3 Convertible. Besides gorgeous styling and numerous features (the dual leather interior, heated seats, and 13-speaker stereo system are among my favorites), the powerful performance of the Turbo engine makes it a force to be reckoned with! I have yet to meet a car at the intersection that can accelerate quicker than my new Saab! The smooth ride and tight handling are also superb! I'd definitely recommend it to others.
Fun, fun, fun
I tried the Audi A4 butthe 1.8T didn't compare favorably. The 9-3 has more horsepower and you can opt for a manual. I have been truly happy with the car. It gets comments every day! Parking attendants, people on the street and other drivers at lights -- people love to comment on its great looks. I have only noticed two drawbacks. First, the stereo is lacking and does not belong in a car of this level or price range. Second, the self- expanding trunk, which originally seemed like a benefit, is a drawback. Even if you pack the truck with the top down, once you put it up, the trunk contents shift and it won't go down again. All in all -- a GREAT car.
Saab Fun to look at but...
I really like the styling of the 9-3 but unfortunately I don't get much of a chance to drive it. My 9-3 is equipped with the tire pressure monitoring system. It has been in the shop 3 times in 2 months for a recurring problem with this system. I've tried to work with Saab regarding the problem but they are very uncooperative. Either deactivate the system or get me a new vehicle. They are unwilling to do either. So, everytime I drive it I don't know if I will make it to my destination or if I will end up back at the Saab dealership. Very frustrating for owning a new vehicle.
great car
It has been a great car to own with little or no problems.
2004 Saab Aero convertible
This is my 3rd Saab convertible (and my 5th Saab overall), and it's quantum leap in quality over my previous cars.
Fun Ride!
I have been very impressed with this vehicle. It has great looks with the top up or down. Not too windy/noisy inside with the top down and when it is up you would not know you were in a convertible. Inside lighting at night is compromised due to no ceiling lights. Back seat is only reasonable for kids but not "real size' adults. Front seats provide nice leg room (I am 6'2"). Saab's attention to detail is impectably obvious in the instrumentation. They do need to develop a better wood trim option and DROP the metalic one-must be the GM influence. Bottom line this a great looking/performing vehicle while still maintaining the great ergonomics Saab is known for!
My Favorite Car Yet!
I recentley bought my 2004 Saab 9-3 Cabriolet! I have always had Saab Convertibles. I am now 25, and got my license when I was 16 so, as you can see, I have had quite a few. This one, is my favorite one yet! I love the ride, room, and design. I love watching the top go up/down. It is quick & quiet. It is fun to frive around with the top down cruisin' 'round town!
Disappointed and waiting...
First off a very nice car to drive top up or down. However I have had a recurring air bag malfunction error message displayed on the info center. I have taken to dealership on five different occassions. Dealership directed me to contact Saab and has recommended that vehicle be return to manufacturer however I am still waiting. Car purchased in August 05 and as of today it has been in dealership for repair for over 50 days. Saab has agreed exchange vehicle for 2006 which has a lower price and they don't feel that I need to be compensated for the difference or aggravation. No policy to satisfy the customer. Great ride when I have it...
new transmission after 45000 miles
My 2004 is my second Saab 9-3. I had a 2003 that needed a new transmission at 45000 miles. To my dismay I just put a new transmission in my 2004 at 45000 miles. Love the car but am very disappointed with the transmission incidents. Get with it GM.
Love It!
Test drove the Audi A4, but not available w/manual trans. Beautiful interior, though, much nicer than the Saab. BMW 3 Convert. overpriced. This is my 3rd Saab, the last being a 9000CD (a lemon). I appreciate the somewhat subtle look of the car, it doesn't scream "look at me".
Love my Saab
Nicely weighted and agile handling. It's a fun car to drive through the twisties and is a true 4 season vehicle (I've been driving it all winter). The manual shifting option is a must to get most out of the engine. Convertible operation is effortless and quick.
Great Rag Top
This is my third Saab (um GM) in a row. I am one of those SAAB enthusiasts that has not had a lemon yet. A great improvement over the last 98 900SE convertible I leased. This car will grow on you as you drive it more.
saab 9-3 cabrio
this is a beautiful car which follows the successfull steps of it's ancestors in every way.It has the looks,the power,and the heritage of saab building cabrios.This car in my opinion,withstands among the rest of the competition.
"Have a bad hair day"
A really understated and fun car to drive. I put the top down and leave NYC in this car and leave all the city hassles behind (assuming no traffic).
9-3AeroCV WHOOOHOOOO
This car takes convertibles to a new level of handling, solid body integrity and performance all in one beautiful and comfortable package. The features such as the one-button remote top down function, excellent ergonomics in the interior design, comfort of the seats and joy of the drive (try the paddle shift) is unsurpassed. I recommend this vehicle without reservation.
Love it
I was going to buy the Audi A-4 Convertible, as I really disliked the look of the 2003 Saab. My fiance really liked the 2003 Saab and not the Audi. Well, I decided to take one more look at the Saab, and found the totally redesigned 2004 was there and blew me away. But it and expensive- no deals. SO, back to the Audi, which is slow and poorly equiped(1.8T) or very expensive (3.0). So, knowing how cheap they were selling the Saab 2003 at the end of the year, I held out and as expected in two months the price dropped about $150 per month on the new program. Since, it has gone down anther $30! Drives like a dream!