Used 2005 Saab 9-3 Convertible Consumer Reviews
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Very satisfying drive.
MJ, 04/30/2009
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
The 9-3 convertible is a total package that comes together for a very satisfying ride. If you look at any one detail of the car it may or may not be best in class, but when combined it just makes you smile. It gives a solid, tight, controlled ride, a little busy on bad pavement. You're very connected to the road. Acceleration from a dead stop is nothing special, but when you're on the road the passing power is impressive! Very comfortable seats. The automatic top opens/closes in 20 secs, even if you're driving (slowly). The stereo isn't strong, but its notes & sounds are very precise (don't confuse bass boost with good music). There's a reason this is Saab's most popular car.
9.3 convertible.....I'm not getting rid of it
jbeloff, 08/12/2013
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
29 of 32 people found this review helpful
I have owned a saab for over 20 years and find them to be the highest quality car. While Saab has had it's many challenges over the years it has always produce a solid performer with above average reliability. Unfortunately the markets tends to go with the brands with the biggest budget to impress you with the image of it's brand. Saab has done a outstanding job mixing form with function. Everyone who has enjoyed the ride in my car are always impressed with the quality and find themselves asking why they never considered on. Saabs brand deserves leadership that can carry it's unique niche and continue it's quality builds to attract more owners looking for something that just works well.
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a huge step forward
soll, 06/12/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I had a 2001 9-3 SE. everything wrong with that car (and there was a lot) has been fixed. Night and day. A rare example of Detroit actually improving on a European car. As a devoted Audi fan, I selected the 9-3 over the A4 Cabriolet and haven't regretted it for a minute. Kudos to GM.
Better than expected
tom, 02/21/2009
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car used with 45,000 miles on it and 6 mos. left on the factory warranty. The car has been great, looks and runs like a brand new car with no problems. It was a one owner car that I purchased from the original selling dealer.
Great, fun car
Thom, 05/09/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Linear 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Great car, from the service at the dealership to its scheduled maintenance. I've only had one problem and it was with the emergency brake. The dealership towed it for free and fixed it over night. They even provided me with a Saab loaner car. The car is quite quick for its price range and is always fun to drive, especially on open, twisty roads (saab fixed torque steer!). The cars interior seems complex at first, but becomes easy to use after 10 minutes. Next to BMW's iDrive, this is like coloring in the lines. The tall stack design of the cockpit makes you think you're in an airplane, which sometimes brings you to the speed of one...minus 1 mach level of course. Outstanding car.
Very satisfying car
MJ, 09/23/2008
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is a really nice car to drive. It's responsive, controlled and quick. From a dead stop the acceleration is normal but it has great passing power - which is really what you need. It accelerates from 40 to 65 (or more, if you dare) in a heartbeat! The ride is stiff (Aero) but very tight. It's very comfortable (Aero seats) and the power convertible top works great. No noticeable decrease in headroom. Still has trunk room with the top down. Stereo is good - sound is very true to actual.
2005 Saab Arc Convertible, Charlotte, NC
Brian, 07/24/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Overall a great car and very pleased with the purchase. Test drove the BMW 3 series convertible and the Audi A4 convertible, although the performance was not as impressive, the Saab was the most fun to drive. Tons of interior room and of the three by far the most comfortable interior. With the roof up, has a true coupe feeling. I am 6'1 and with the roof up I have tons of headroom. Did not like the wood trim on the inside of the Arc model and had it changed out for the metal trim. I personally like the ride of the Arc suspension better than the Aero. The automatic is great, and the ability to shift the automatic is great for passing.
Not too happy with my convertible
atlantaowner, 04/16/2008
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
I first bought a 93 Aero, it shook terribly, turned it back in and got a 93 Arc...this one shakes! In a loaner from the dealer and it shakes at 70 mph. My car has been in the shop for over a month just because of a simple (I thought) balancing job. But it turns out that it couldn't get fixed, so they had to replace all 4 tires! Not even a year after my 2nd purchse, I am already planning to trade in after summer. Do not buy a 93 convertible unless you're prepared for it to be in the shop time after time after time. It's in the shop for 'updates' seems like every month. If you want a high maintenance car, this one's for you!
sierra alpha alpha bravo (SAAB)
Jon Cox, 05/01/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great handling - powerful when turbo kicks in and luxurious but practical. No gimmicks, just functional, solid and safe! 2005 is deeper and longer, so at 6'5" I was very pleased to find a convertible that provided me with plenty of head room and leg room, as well as a couple of rear seats so the kids can come along on the ride. A great family convertible!
Big improvement
dso, 08/25/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i had an '03 that gave me no problems other than a squeaky top in cold weather. Love ragtops, and was considering Audi, or BMW. Redceived SAAB early termination deal, coupled with GM program, which would save me quite a bit, so i looked at the SAAB Aero and fell in love with it. Black on black is a hot car. great seats and interior, although I think trunk is smaller. Miss the fold dowm back seat, but it had to be sacrificed for the pop-up rollbars. Still haven't figured out the displays.
Best Car I Ever Owned
Dian, 05/31/2006
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is by far the best I've ever owned. The only things that could top it would be if it had the V6 turbo engine. It is not as common as the BMW which every other person seems to drive here, so you are more unique when on the road. Unfortunately for me, I have to sell it as I am moving overseas and left hand drive cars are not allowed there. When I return, I will pick up the latest model via the European Delivery Program so I can once again enjoy the thrill of the Saab Aero convertible. It is great to drive.
Saab 9-3 Convertible - the Freedom Machi
The Polar Bear, 10/22/2004
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Finally there's a car that reflects how I feel, free, in for a challenge, OUT THERE and totally comfortable when I just feel like taking a ride home in the sunset. With a cup of coffee in the cup holder, and some jazz on the high powered stereo, I call it a mix between a vehicle and a Peet's Coffee coffee shop. Brilliant - again!
Reason to smile!
steve, 04/05/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the fifth Saab I've either owned or leased, and it's without a doubt the most enjoyable. My only complaint is its relatively pokey acceleration. Otherwise, it's great fun, with a nice, controlled ride, strong brakes and all the creature comforts one would expect from a $43000 car. I considered a BMW 330iC as well, but found the local Saab dealership much more agreeable to work with.
Best car ever!
scott, 10/18/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am so happy with my purchace! I bought a ARC Convertible and I still have a smile plastered across my face. If it isnt raining the top is down no matter the weather. So much fun to drive and everybody that sees it makes a comment on how sweet it looks! Do yourself a favor and get this car!
Great Car!
Tim Choppin, 05/12/2006
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased the Saab after driving the Audi A4 and the BMW 3-Series. The BMW really left me cold. I really liked the Audi driving experience, but the interior was far more cramped and the price for an equivalent trim level was shocking. The Saab has been fun and generally reliable, with the exception of the rare and mysterious message from the computer about the engine immobilizer. The car keeps running, so I ignore it. The top goes down rapidly and the seat heaters allow me to drive top-down whenever the outside temperature hits about 40. The car has plenty of pep. The rear seats are unique in this class for being truly functional for passengers. The digital media input jack is nice.
My Swedish Souvenir
topdownarc, 06/08/2006
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love driving my 9-3 Arc! It handles with ease the secondary, curving roads I drive on daily. (and I like to drive it fast...) It averages 26 MPG on my rural roads. I've had the car almost a year and haven't had any problems with it. It was our second European Delivery purchase and we'll certainly purchase future cars in the same manner.
Saab enthusiasts only
Saab fan kk, 04/11/2018
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Not considerably more maintenance than any other convertible; just mechanics charge more for their services on discontinued brands. Owned Saabs' for most of my driving career. Sad that GM bought the brand then put it out of business. I bought the 2005 Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible used which saved considerable cost. No real major maintenance expenses other than high mile service (30-60-90). It runs hard on teh performance tires. They don't last long which I lament. Interior is simple. GM made plastic buttons have peeled. Original Saab parts lasted forever. Love/hate relationship with a brand that harkens back to speed and safety.
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Great car
Oblaw, 04/14/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Linear 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The convertible has great gas mileage for the power. It handles very well and has had no reason for service beyond routine maintenance.
Bare bones facts.
Joseph G, 04/15/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is awesome ! I test drove the "big three", re: Audi-4, BMW 325CI and the AERO. The AUDI and BMW have the performance issues you may be looking for, but they lack the comfort and driving ease of the SAAB AERO. The SAAB AERO driver seat is much more roomy than the other two, so if your a big man, re: 6 feet or above then your knee will be bruised in the AUDI or BMW. This car is really the only choice for comfort and style. I recommend you test drive all three on the same day to really get a feel for what I am saying.
2005 Aero Saab Convertible
Karen Gustin, 05/29/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
So much better than the 2002! Quieter, sturdier, faster, solid. Overall, I love this year's model and may not ever get another!
3 Saabs and still going
saablover, 11/21/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned 3 Saabs...92 -9000, 99 -9/3 and now a 05 - 9-3. Once you own one you know they just keep getting better. I feel great about my new purchase...fun to drive, tight, clean, great fit and finish! Even the wife loves it!!
stu's saab
stueat, 10/09/2004
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great pick up, fun to drive,
Wow! Top-down fun in Florida
SW-MIMI, 04/02/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had many convertibles in the past and I finally test drove new models this month. I fell in love with my black on black Aero Saab. I think it's much more stylish than the Audi. I felt the BMW inside wasn't as special as the Saab and everything was another fee. My Aero Saab has every extra I could want and more. Drive one today and you'll have a new love too!
My First Convertible
Ron, 06/03/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Briefly, this is a well-built car with a great fit and finish. The trunk will hold 2 golf bags with the top up and 4 passengers comfortably. Along with its 5 star safety rating, convenient controls and good looks, what else would you want in a convertible?
More bang for your buck
Alexander, 06/22/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After one year I still in love with this car. Quick,stylish,secure and handsome. The only thing that bothers me. The navigation system is available now and last year that was not an option.
Couldn't be happier!
Patty, 07/28/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We purchased this car for our 16 year old son. He always wanted the SAAB convertible. Driving it is an amazing experience. You hate to reach your destination. Heads turn the entire time it's on the road. We feel good about it's high safety standards. We test drove ALL convertibles - this one is the best the others cannot compare.
9-3 ARC Convertible is a fantastic car!
JRMNJ, 12/08/2019
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 2005 9-3 Convertible is the best all around vehicle I've ever owned and I've owned plenty. I purchased my 42k miles 2005 ARC in 2009 for my wife. She wanted her own convertible seeing that I have both a BMW 645 ci and a C5 Corvette. After owning the 9-3 now for 11 years, the vette for 20 and the BMW for 10 I can say that the SAAB is in a class of its own. I've only had to put tires, oil, spark plugs, head lights/ tail lights, battery, new gas cap and gas in the SAAB after 148k miles. There was a factory recall on front springs but other than that this car has been flawless. Very low maintenance costs, extremely reliable, great in snow and fun to drive on sunny days. These cars perform well enough with the 2.0 Turbo but that are by no means quick or fast. They drive as nicely as one should expect from a 210hp executive car. My one complaint...the crummy interior laminate over dash buttons. The UV rays and moisture get to them and many have started to peel. The shifter selection panel being the worst. The driver seat has worn at this point and could use a replacement bottom cover. Other than that this vehicle is outstanding. I've since purchased my wife a 2017 Wrangler Unlimited CHIEF which she adores...so the SAAB is now mine. I still have the 645ci which if so was not mechanically inclined would have cost me a fortune in repairs at this point. The C5 is a garage queen, the BMW my summer driver and the SAAB...she's driven every season, sun, rain or snow and as reliable as a Swiss watch.
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Love this car!
Leslie, Los Angeles CA, 05/24/2023
updated 06/03/2024
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It’s everything I want and need : style, comfort, convertible…with enough space and some great creature comforts like a passenger side mirror that tips down to perfectly see the curb when parallel parking.
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It is 20 yrars this month
Richard, 06/07/2025
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Rides and handles well.Very well constructed vehicle. My only negative is that the dash knobs were made of a cycolac type material that gets a greasey feel when the weather gets hot (over 85 degrees.
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Saab - Bad Decision
jj, 06/06/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 3 people found this review helpful
With less than 2600 miles, this car broke down four times. The fifth time I refused to drive it anymore. I had it towed to the dealer and told them to keep it. During one of the episodes the car just stopped while I was driving, luckily I was in a parking lot and only doing about 15 to 20 mph. Saab tried to compete with some of the quality manufacturers and put in too many gadgets. It was tinny and confusing to run. I knew from the get-go that I had made a mistake but was willing to ride it out. Unfortunately this car's time ran out in less than six months. I took a $15,000 hit when I traded this junk in. Live and learn. I no longer drive a Saab and NEVER will again.
Best of the Best
RobertB, 01/13/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Linear 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is wonderful. The car fits me like a glove, handles well in snow and ice, sound system is great. The trunk space surprised me on how much it can hold. I've owned many cars over the past 25 years and this Saab convertible is my favorite car of them all.
Wonderful car
Keith, 04/17/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Beautiful, fun to drive, excellent acceleration, handles very well. Great stereo. Surely the most beautiful of the 4-seater convertibles. Excellent safety ratings. Stands out from the dime-a-dozen convertibles out there.
saab convertble
Joel Klein, 04/02/2005
2005 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my 11th Saab cobvertible and these feels the best
Saab Story
STL Saab, 08/13/2022
2005 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Had a 2005 aero turbo with just 70k miles. Constant electrical and computer problems. Front bearings were bad. Had to replace the hydraulics in the top. Went through several throttle bodies. I STRONGLY suggest avoiding these cars.
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