Used 1997 Saab 900 Consumer Reviews
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270K and still going
It's been the hardest thing to let go simply because it continues to run and won't stop. The engine still has all it's pep, it's still fun to drive, got enough pep it not having a turbo, it's great on gas and if it wasn't for most of the perks failing -6 CD changer, auto locks stopped working in winter, antenna lost in a car wash and a few electronic gremlins- I would never look at another car. I bought it for 4,000K cash with 106K miles on it, and I must have known it was going to be worth it because I had to have it and I got more than my money's worth out of i. I always put premium in it, always changed the oil after 3K and send to a SAAB Dealer once a year for tests and recommendations
Wasn't Looking For A Saab, But It's Good Car For The Money
I bought this when, after 15 years and 235,000 miles, after my beloved E36 BMW died. Having not had a car payment since 1999 - and not wanting one - I bought this from its second owner. It had 106,000 miles on it when I bought it. I was expecting it to be a slow car but, while no rocket, the car has enough power to be safe and mildly entertaining. Interior is comfortable, but not as well laid out or as well built as my BMW was. Gas mileage is in the 23 MPG range. It has a nice factory stereo system, but the old school 6 disc changer in the trunk is a bit of a pain. So far, other than a few minor issues (dash light bulbs, etc.) it has been reliable. Shifter is rubbery compared to the BMW.
1997 Saab 899SE Turbo Best Convertible
I live in the north east, and I don't drive this in the winters due to salt / rust issues. (My friends drive their similar vintage Saabs in the winter report good handling and decent salt resistance.) I plan to keep this for a long time, and I hate the losing proposition of rust on such a fine car. Only one issue so far (direct ignition module), but it didn't leave me stranded, and the repair has lasted.
I LOVE THESE CARS!! AND SO SHOULD YOU!
Ive had the privaledge of owning many high end luxury cars. WOW! I am so impressed with the drive of the saab, the incredible roomyness & sporty handling. Best of all I am impressed with the fuel economy. I love the solid feel of the car in comparison to the lightweight tin out there these days.Recently purchased a 97 900s 4cyl auto, after giving back my 09 Acura MDX. Fortunately I am experiencing a Saab before its full bastardization by GM. I would definaltely recommend this car.No mechanical issues yet and my Saab mechanic does not forsee any. Do not be swayed by the horror stories on such sites. Experience this magnificent car for yourself!
Quirky, yet stylish and extremely comfortable.
I have owned this car for 1 year now (bought for $2300 with 134k miles) and it has been one of the nicest experiences I have had. It is not the best on the wallet, considering needed maintenance, but given that I bought a 17 year old car, it is to be expected. I have not had many issues with this car and I can always count on it to start up in the morning. I was warned about Saabs being "money pits". They can be if you take it to the shop, but if you invest in a Haynes manual and some tools, DIY is not so bad. My model is the 2 Door 2.3L N/A 4 Speed Auto. Currently have 143000 and plan to keep going. The vehicle looks stunning. When I see a reflection of it, I can't believe it is mine.
Still going strong at +5 years/82000 mi
I've had this car for over 5 years. I now have 82K on the odometer. I still love this car. Very good utility, fun to drive, looks great, very comfortable on long drives. You can get a tonne of stuff in the hatch area. Fold the seats and double your cargo room. Very good seating position, roomy in the front & the back (better than an Audi A4). Passing power is fantastic. Handling is pretty good, but could be a bit better. This is an excellent car for long trips & adverse weather driving (especially winter driving with snow tires).
Good memories, mixed feelings
Mine was a great car when it was around! The turbo's power is really surprising for a 4-cylinder. 5-speed is a must to keep the in-town gas usage down. Brakes are firm and responsive and do their job well. Handling could be better, as it always felt kinda heavy around corners, especially for how fun and sporty the engine is. Mine was getting rusty but lasted until 165k. Engine seized, despite taking care of it. The car was extremely lovable and fun and I still miss it. It's unlike any other car ever, and you have to drive it to really get why. It just feels kinda raw and European. It can start falling apart on you as it ages, especially the interior, but you tend to shrug it off and smile.
love my 1997 Saab Talladega coupe
Bought this wonderful Saab in 2000 from the original owner. 16 years old now and only 120,000 miles. Its Cayenne red and a 3 door coupe. Always garaged and always serviced so in turn it looks excellent and runs fantastic. It is our 3rd Saab and most likely our last due to GM screwing up Saab Sweden. The fit and finish is outstanding, the paint almst looks new from 10 feet. The outstandig leather interior looks almost new. The Talladega is a limited production model that has upgraded exterior and interior features. The engine and transmission have never been apart, just regular maintenance. No Saab stories here.
We Still Love It.
1997 was 51% SAAB 49% GM. Bought new and has 293,000. Clutch at 98,000 and 293,000. Water Pump 200,000+. Valve job at 260,000. Front Discs replaced. Pads changed only twice. Hydraulic Valves never need adj! Always kept outdoors and paint is still great. Hatchback works like a pickup truck. Worse design is placement of alternator as it's located on the BOTTOM REAR of the engine. Only my Reseda Saab mechanic can take apart all mechanical necessary to access it from underneath. Just before valve job had head gasket leak that had oil go down and to rear of engine. Ruining NEW BOSCH ALTERNATOR recently put on. Bosch rebuilt is very expensive to obtain and only expert can replace with many hour
I Love My Saab !
First of all, I just love Saab 900 Turbos for their quirky style and total driving experience. It's a nice, heavy, safe and reliable car if you know how to take care of it. I have an '88 900 Turbo that is being restored because I've never driven a car that fun before. I just replaced that Saab with a 1997 Talladega Convertible with 123k miles on it, no rust or major issues, apparently very well cared for. I can foresee a major tune-up in the near future, but if you love your car, you do that anyway. This car is completely fun, responsive, quick and while it's not the typical long-nosed little Saab I'm used to, it didn't take long to fall in love with it.
Convertible....Sometimes
The entire NG900's have more problems than should be allowed. The convertible costs about $1200 every other year if you want it to open as the design on the tonneau motor is an absolute failure. The clutch cable is another abomination. I'm under the hood more than I'm behind the wheel, or it's at the garage due to "superior swedish engineering". NEVER AGAIN, I tell you... never again
What Do I Get Now?
When I bought my car it was four years old and after a lease it only had 16000 miles on it. I love it. No major problems, except for something in the air conditioning system two years ago. I think I should get a newer car before troubles start but do not know what else to get, except for a 2002 Saab, which still has the great looks and qualities. Newer Saabs look disgusting and nothing else appeals. Help!
My 1997 SAAB is STILL Running Awesome!
My 1997 SAAB 900S now has 227,000 miles on it and is still running great! Body looks great too - no ext. rust whatsoever. The only major repair was a new clutch & clutch cable but hey, it's not a new car so certain things will wear out on anything after 15 years on the road.
Excellent car!
I have read quite a few bad reviews for this car. I only read them after I bought my second hand Saab. Needless to say, all those bad reviews are probably form drivers who have no clue on how to maintain a car!
True love
Any Saab owner knows that this car is not without its quirks, but in terms of personality and just plain fun, nothing beats my 900 SE Turbo Convertible. The car is a solid performer and the overall experience has been worth it.
Unbelievable car for the price!!!
While I've owned many European imports, this is my first experience with a Swede....so far I've found it to be one of the best automotive purchases I've made in 30 years of car ownership!! Compared to many other euro-rides (Renault, Audi etc) I've had, the Saab beats them in terms of reliability, ease of maintenance, comfort, parts cost and just general driving enjoyment. The NA 2.3 has enough power (150hp) to keep you from dozing off behind the wheel, although I would bet if mine were an automatic, I might have a different opinion...For the purchase price (400.00!!) and several months of hassle free ownership, I'd recommend a Saab to anyone!!!!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Totally Unreliable
I bought this car for $8,500 when it was 6 1/2 years old. It had 54k miles. I have almost replaced everything on it but the engine turbo and radiator: clutch and clutch cable, radiator fan, fuel pump (twice in 6 months), starter, alternator and water pump, cdriver's side door lock actuator, radiator hoses, direct ignition cassette, brake pads and rotors (all 4), one engine mount, sepertine belt, thermostat, flex pipe and muffler. Leather is trashed, poor quality. Heated seats don't work anymore. Cd changer broke, 4 speakers blew out so I replaced the system. There is a reason these cars depreciate 60-70% in 3 years. Spend the extra money and buy a beemer (which performs far better).
Thank God It's Gone
Bought it with 64,000 miles. Drove it 60,000 miles. The following required replacement: 2 sets of tires (it eats them), brakes, headlight bulbs, alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, dryer, and expansion valve, torque converter lockup solenoid, fuel pump, spark plugs, heater hoses, serpentine belt, serpentine belt tensioner, crank position sensor, battery, convertible top microswitches and cables, rear window weatherstripping, coolant reservoir with level sensor, power window switch, alarm system module, ABS computer, struts, coil spring, climate control sensor. No room here to list the rest. I do 90% of my own repairs. It cost twice what I paid for it to keep it running for 4 years.
Luv my 97 Saab 900 SE Turbo
My Saab was in poor shape when I purchased it. Needed body work, clutch, 2nd gear and a good cleaning. I've had all that work done and the car looks great. I love to drive this car. It's just fun. And I feel like I have a small army tank around me for protection. I really like the safety components of the Saab. This is my 4th Saab. I probably put too much money into rehabbing the car but it was worth it to me.
What a piece of junk!! Don't buy a Saab
We purchased this car for about 3K about a year and a half ago. We have put over $3,000 into it since then. Lots of computer/electrical issues, entire brake system had to be overhauled, it is absolutely NOT worth the money in order to keep these things running. A couple times we were unable to fix the car simply because the part is no longer manufactured and not available anywhere! Do yourself a favor and DON'T BUY A SAAB - what a major money pit!
fast, sleek and quirky
The turbo is a rush, and the car handles in a solid and predictable manner. Outstanding brakes (but watch out for tailgaters in back of you). Its speed and manueverability makes it a very safe car. Very reliable except for an ignition module failure that left me stranded with truly no warning.
too many repair $$$
Prior reviews are right on. I've put thousands of $$$ into it between 100,000 and 120,000 miles, and it still needs a/c and radio/cd player repairs. every repair is very expensive. Lousy mileage. Many electrical problems. Huge blind spots.
I like my Saab, but...
I purchased my 97 900SE after years of enjoyment with my 84 900. So when it came time to buy a new one I naturally chose a Saab. I won't say that I'm overly impressed with the 97, but it's not a bad car. It handles well, enjoyable to drive, quite reliable and I feel safe in it. It doesn't have the harsh European edges and sounds that gave character to the older models, now it's softer and quieter more like my dad's Buick, which is a bit of a let down. Outside of a couple unusal and painfully expensive problems, overall the car runs well and treats me right. I may bad mouth my car at times but I'll defend it to the end.
I love this car!!!
I bought this in 1997 new. Always wanted one. Just love the look! I replaced the engine last year but, worth it. MAKE SURE YOU OIL AND FILTER CHANGE EVERY 3,000 MILES!!! That was the reason... After 12 years I can't complain. Just bought a used 2001 Turbo. It looks and drives like new!!! I'm hooked forever...
Appears to be well made
The 1997 900S Convertible has the sleek look of a well designed vehicle with structural body strength and a sporty character and appearance. Most of the exterior holds up well to the various weather climates but when faced with finally finding replacement parts, you have to seriously consider whether or not hanging onto this prestige Saab is a smart thing to do. At 126K miles, I expected another 20 or 30 K before facing high repair costs. Since I've purchased the Saab in 2006 & having no idea of the kind of conditions the previous owner placed on the vehicle, I've since invested at least 1/3 the original cost into more than just simple wear and tear. After Ks of dollars and 126K miles humm
Unbelieveable
My wife bought this car brand new in 1997. She was a pharmaceutical rep and used it to haul her samples around in three states. When she moved on to another profession, the car sat idle for about 4 years, with just occasional driving (1000 miles per year). Then I accepted a job which included a 100 mile round trip commute. Since this SAAB, 900 SE Turbo, was still in good shape, both outside and in, I began to use it as my commute car since it was getting about 28 mpg on the highway. Five years later and a total now of 225, 360 miles on the odometer, it is still running great and everything still works fine. It is showing some wear, e.g. spots on the carpet and wear holes in the driver's leather seat back, which I am going to have repaired. All in all, this is one of the best cars we have ever owned. Hoping to get another 100,000 miles out of it. Well Done SAAB!!!
Aho Saaby
Bought it in Florida. Drove it home to Utah. Great car to trip across the country.
SUPER TURBO 900 SE
THE BEST 10K I HAVE EVER SPENT ON A USED CAR! HAVE A 97 900 SE TURBO W/5SPEED BANG THRU THE GEARS AT 6000 RPM -LIKE A MAD MAN - EXPLODE THE TURBO ON OPEN STRAIGHTS CRANK IT UP TO 140 MPH + CAR IS A ROCK AND ROLL MACHINE. WILL SPEND 1K AND UPGRADE THE COMPUTER AND EXAUST TO 240HP + AX THE FUEL SHUT OFF WE'LL BE PUSHIN 150 MPH + THIS CAR WAS $32,000.00 NEW --- LIVIN LIKE A RICH MAN ON A POOR MANS BUJET !! HA HA HA
First Car
Bought it in November of '07 from a private owner. Had 235,000 miles on it and a few problems. The throttle cable was very stiff it actually stuck down before i fixed it. The clutch is stiff but catches very well. sometimes i have to struggle to change gears; the shifter will stick sometimes. Also the top didn't work tonneau motor problems. that was pricey to fix. overall I'm very happy with it. Excellent fuel economy and i love the leather and look of it with the top down. good acceleration for just a 4 banger. runs smooth above a hundred. My first car @ 18 years old. Would totally trust it on long trips. nice radio and cd changer. spent $3500 including repairs so it's gr8 4 the price.
Another 'saab' story
Fun to drive, lots of space, and that's it! What car made after 1988 uses a cable clutch?! The cable snapped on the clutch, the oil cooler spewed oil all over the engine, sucked in by the cabin fan and spewed oil on my face, the backlight for the climate control burned out, the lumbar seat broke (and I'm not a big/heavy guy), list goes on. At only 60k miles, the thing fell apart - stupid things going wrong. Do not buy this car. Stay away.
I hate the clutch
The clutch and the clutch cable suck! I had to replace it at 69,000 miles and now I'm at 123,000 and the oil seal is leaking so they need to go in and replace that and the clutch. I bought this car used and I have put in about $10,000 over the last 3 years. Thank God I got the extended warrenty. I won't ever buy a SAAB again. Too expensive. GET AN EXTENDED WARRENTY!
Unimpressed
CONS - Extremely poor front wheel wet traction despite very good new tires. Engine blew at 60K miles. Power windows are very slow. Cup holders might as well not exist. Screen for radio and onboard computer doesn't work. Headlights burn out about every 7K miles. 17/25 MPG despite non-turbo 4 cylinder engine.PROS - Can't beat a convertible. Like the exterior styling. Great trunk space even with the top down.
WOW
By far and away the best car I have ever owned. The control is unbelievable and the comfort issecond to none. This car is great! Looks nice and was extremely cheap for the quality i gotin return.
Saab 900 SE Turbo Convertible
The car looks great and is a great used car value. The convertible is terrific for Atlanta where me and my dogs can enjoy for approx. ten months per year. Fun, fun, fun.
Lovin' my Saab
I recently heard that Saab was discontinueing the hatchback! Slowly but surely, Saab is getting rid of everything that makes them unique. I love this car - it drives incredibly well for the price!
900 Turbo SE 5 Speed 4 Dr Hatch
My 5th Saab. Retired my 1990 900 Turbo automatic for the 5 speed. Love it! I do 120 miles a day on the highway and this thing screams. Bought it with 110K miles, so I expected some issues. Mileage could be better and things wear out. Costs me $500 every 3 - 4 months. Bent two rims in potholes last winter, so put on 4 wheels from a 2002 Aero. Blew the engine at 192K, but a replacement was $4500, so if the thing died today it cost me $0.24/ mile for the last 82K. CD player stinks, and I buy fog and head lamps by the gross. I'm keeping this one for forever!
TOO MANY PROBLEMS
First time I have owned a Saab - and the last. Way too many problems: broken seat, ignition failed @35,000 mi,problems with top, fuel line broke, trunk opens with problems, heater control knob broke, center consol broken (not to mention terible design), wiper fluid pump failed. Just to name a few.
Love It
I love my 900S Convertible. It was 5 years old when I bought it with only 44K miles. While some have said Saab's have reliability problems I have had little to complian about. Other than oil and gas I have put a clutch cable in for about $150 with labor. It is unique, fun to drive and makes me feel like I drive an expensive car even though I paid very little for it. If Saab revives the convertible I might be a Saab guy for life.
Fell in love with the car and bought it
I think the Saab is a good value. I purchased it because of the fun to drive factor, the reasonable purchase price and because I needed something with lots of storage space. It edged out the Infiniti I30 (b/c of storage space and more fun to drive). The cavernous hatch has been just what I need; edging out my Pathfinder. Unfortunately, there have been more service issues than I would have hoped for (budget for this!). Dealers have been good, though. Still love to drive it, though living in the middle of a major city makes me wonder if I will ever have the chance to leave the traffic behind and "open her up."
saab reality
live saab or die. this is my 7th one. never had a major problem. realiabiltiy is unsurpassed. feel safe at all times even in a convertible. smooth ride, quiet and comfortable. will probably never own another type of car. always ahead of the competition in every dept.just waiting for the s.u.v.
Still going strong at +5 years/82000 mi
I've had this car for over 5 years. I now have 82K on the odometer. I still love this car. Very good utility, fun to drive, looks great, very comfortable on long drives. You can get a tonne of stuff in the hatch area. Fold the seats and double your cargo room. Very good seating position, roomy in the front & the back (better than an Audi A4). Passing power is fantastic. Handling is pretty good, but could be a bit better. This is an excellent car for long trips & adverse weather driving (especially winter driving with snow tires).
I like my saab
The car is a lot of fun to drive. It's not very good in the snow, but I guess I shouldn't be driving a convertable in the snow anyhow!
A Well-Built Car
Over the past 5 years that I've had this car I have always had a wonderful driving experience. It handles well in all weather conditions (especially on the hilly snow-filled streets of New Jersey) and is sturdy enough to make me feel safe amidst aggressive drivers.
i love my saab, but . . .
I love my saab900.It is sport, luxury and utility all rolled into one. Prfrmnce is great. Except when it breaks down-which is often. I don't mind that so much, because I drive it aggressively, but when it breaks, It is very expnsve to repair. Even THAT would be bearable if it were not for the rude svce staff. And getting info from them is like pulling teeth. Since there are only a few authorized Saab dealers in the state, you are out of luck as far as options. Framingham and 128 are THE ABSOLUTE WORST. For this reason alone, I won't own another one. Not if I have to be subjected to these a**holes. I might try audi or volvo. Or even a suburu, perhaps.
Saab 900 SE Turbo Conv
Great Vehicle... Best 13 Grand spent on used car to date!
Saab 900SE Turbo 5 sp
Great Vehicle - Good reliability and Performance. Only issue is the handling . Vehicle understeers or plows in corners. Wheel design with low profile 225/55R16 tyres is insufficient for northern potholes ( bent 7 wheels in 7 years) Highly recommend vehicle with 5 speed and turbo 2.0L
Great car
This is one of those cars that is is more then the sum of its parts. Nothing else looks like it, unlike the newer generic looking Saabs. It's fun to drive, still solid after 123000 miles, fold down that back seat and you have a wagon. 25 mpg. So far the only major repair has been the exhaust. Too bad they stopped making this body style.
Overall, a great Convertible!
I Bought this Car off of ebay and have had no issues with it so far. (previous owner had a lot of work done and a new top installed just before I bought it!) Its a lot of fun to drive and it corners decently well. The center of gravity is a little high so it tends to roll in corners. But otherwise driving it is a blast. It gets OK Gas mileage cause its a litle heavy for the 150 HP 2.3 L but it still gets where I wand to go Plenty fast! Overall I would buy another one when this one dies!
To many troubles
This is my 2nd Saab. First one was an '87 900turbo. My current '97 900SE turbo has delt me an enormous amount of miscellaneous troubles, too many to list. While the car starts every day, all other items from the windshield wiper motors to power seats unhooking to short brake life, etc.. has occured with my vehicle. Extremely to expensive to maintain.
If you're looking for fun
I purchased this car in August 2007. This car is very dependable and comfortable. It rides extremely well with the top up or down. It is hard to tell at times how fast I'm going. Would recommend this car for anyone looking for a convertible sports car.