My dad has a 2004 Saab 9-5 2.0t petrol arc and it's such a fantastic car it's rapid as you get into the higher revs but in my opinion saabs are soooo underrated
Dango Drifts I've got a 2003 saab 9-5 2.3t automatic Vector and the car just flies. Saabs are what vauxhalls should always have been if they'd bothered to design cars properly.
I have had five Saab cars from the 9th to 9.3t 2l and have have not had any problems . serviced more often than Boko especially oil change . have owned Daimler sp250 so easy types Alfa Romeo s for long continental journeys nothing better.
It's underrated because thx to gm Saab went bankrupt in 2011 and most people don't want to buy a car that's company doesn't run anymore. Better for us tough cuz there are more used out there.
You've just driven one of the ultimate 'sleeper' cars. Welcome to Saab....one of the most practical cars on the planet. Even at 100k miles, the engine is just barely broken in. They'll go for 400k plus miles with proper servicing....mine did easily.
Thanks for the head up on the mileage possibility there looking to get one of these in the next few days, 18000.00 m doesn't seem so bad from your info safe motoring everyone
@@Ethankeenan02 Nice Ethan a joy to ride I like the 2003 -2007 93 serie allot. I had to do some little modifications to get the same feel of driving in my 2008 Saab
There is tonnes of things about SAAB thats not just about how pretty it looks, Take a look at Ncap scores to get some idea what you become part of when you sit in one! The 2nd gen 9-3 are build on the GM Epsilon chassis that SAAB actually tweaked and made stronger & longer, Your not just sitting in a safety cell with double guage outer steel, your surrounded by airbags too, literaly!
Saab were incredible! Torque is unreal! Yes it's Vauxhall bit remember that Skoda is VW etc... Not a single fuck to give with shared parts and engines. Saab were incredible car makers
Always loved them since I was 17! Bought my first one last week at 32, a fully loaded 2011 9-3 TTiD twin turbo diesel for £3k, absolutely love the thing, so underated cars, perfect daily hack!
@@Mrak47777sorry just seen this reply, I actually sold it, and bought a Volvo V60 due to needing a hatchback boot...and absolutely regretted it!! The Volvo has now gone, what a dreadful thing, apart from the 5 cylinder engine, it was a souless thing, nothing on par with the 9-3...now looking for a later TTid again but as 'wagon ;) still have the itch to be back in a SAAB.
Fun fact: The indicator noise IS coming from the speakers. So if you reverse and the parking sensors start beeping the indicator goes quiet. The subwoofer is located in the trunk, "replacing" the spare wheel. But it was only available on the estate (SportCombi) if i recall correctly.
I love my Saab 9-3. Sound system is crazy good from factory, visibility is like no other, in love with the directional noise it goes on. Just so many little things I adore about it. Also it's true it's not a sporty car but it's definitely fun! If I were to do anything to it I'd adjust suspension but it does have a smooth ride stock.
If you thought the 9-3 Aero was quick you should see the 9-5 Aero (2.3T engine). Mid range is absolutely insane, all I do on motorways is overtake just because its so damn fun.
I have a 9-5 Aero. Can confirm. Get a Stage 3 tune on it and it's even quicker. 300 Hp and 340 ft lbs of torque. I've also always preferred the 9-5 over the 9-3.
the 2.0 aero is actually faster that the 2.3t stock vs stock , and a stage 1 2.o aero is faster than a stage 1 2.3 , although the b234 engine has more power its also alot heavier which equals it out ,
It depends on which year you're talking about, the 210HP 9-3 or the 220HP (the latest 9-3 they made) that also had AWD. The 2.0T FWD and the 9-5 2.3T (Aero) had a 0.2 difference (The older Saab 9-5 so not the newer GM boats, 1st gens). The 9-5 was the faster out of the two. With the 9-3 AWD it was probably way faster but stock vs stock of the same year 9-3 and 9-5, the 9-5 was just a tad faster. I haven't got a clue of Stg1 vs Stg1 though, the 9-5 with a Stg1 gave it tons of torque where as the 9-3 got somewhere around 40-50HP as well as a lot more torque.
Vauxhall / Opel /GM Epsilon platform, yes. However Saab as the naughty nephew it was, changed quite a lot even on the platform itself, mainly due to Saabs higher demands for crash safety!
Its only based on a Vauxhall Vectra, dont forget Saab changed so much in their design of this platform that to call it a Vectra is wrong. Plus Saab are understated
I dig the comparison for the Vauxal... very poignant but one of the things i love about Saab, and one of the reasons why GM dropped them is because they were unwilling to just rebadge. They were sure to make sure it was up to SAAB standards and got into a lot of heat with GM for not following the basic re badge protocol and going above and beyond.
My mam has just bought one of these. I own a Vectra. I have driven both and I'm sorry Vauxhall fans but Saab is just a nicer, better design and brand. Even if they are that same car. The Saab is just a nicer place to be, quicker and feels like a better built car.
Sort of like the difference between a Subaru Impreza and a SAAB 9-2X. The SAAB is quieter, heavier, and handles better, either in base "Linear" trim or the WRX-equivalent AERO model.
just watched this your reactions were priceless everyone's first experience of saab. 😂 got a stage 3 tuned 2.8v6 myself 358hp 610nm absolutely love it great to see a review on a saab for once
I owned a 2004 Saab 93 Aero. Runs and works beautifully. I lost a 2003 Linear in a car accident and bought this car a few months back for cheap. Great car but need to know someone who can repair them. Fortunately for me I have a company in town who specializes in Saab. If you are in the Orlando, FL area check out Swede Central.
Jamie mate, I watched your video on this car about a year and a half ago before buying (and learning to drive) in my own 2005 SAAB 9-3 1.9TiD Linear, although I settled on a saloon because I was too impatient to wait for a desired estate to come available. I was sold on buying a 9-3 anyway because I love the way SAAB was, the way they insisted on doing things their way and the fact that I could go out and get a compact luxury car for £800 knowing full well that when I was younger my parents were yearning for one when they were brand new. One year of driving later (the first 5,000miles on a provisional with my friend who helped me get my license in the end and was happy to just sit and enjoy the comfort whilst I hypermiled thing to near 60mpg at motorway speeds. It's a big car and the interior feels big, a fellow chef at work joked he could lay across the dash. But it's easy to drive. I did some lessons in a 2018 Astra which was a nice car, actually. But the SAAB feels more engaging, I can feel the power and what the car is doing precisely through the pedals and fairly well through steering wheel (ignoring the play I've put down to age). The fifteen year old 9-3 makes for a better team mate to the driver than the brand new Astra in my opinion. The six-speed gearbox in my diesel took some getting used to however but with practise has become easier to use. The tiny turbo in my car isn't praised with a turbo gauge lie some other SAABs but it does get the car from 30-70mph in third quite nicely. Another friend of mine had (at the time) his 2004 Audi A4 which got T-Boned by a speeding driver who failed to stop in time coming up to the roundabout. To his surprise he was lent a brand new 68 plate Jaguar XF-S as a courtesy car for four weeks while his Audi was in the shop. As one might with a hire car, he took a few liberties and tested it's limits and passed the keys around a fair bit. At the time, having only driven a 1.0l SEAT Arosa before, he let me have a go on private land. It was smooth, quiet and very comfortable but the turbo lag was very evident and off-putting for me. That car to buy new at the time would've set you back a hefty five figure sum. For just £800, I've ended up with a car that's actually more comfortable, nowhere near as hard, slower by far but better fun at legal speeds. Oh and it weighs a ton less so it drives like something smaller, a feeling that's slightly exaggerated by it being front wheel drive. Yet it's just as practical. Anyway, in a nutshell, your review on this car is pretty damned accurate.
I own a 2006 saab 9-3 with 151,000 miles and yes, the turn signal sound comes through the Harmon Kardon speakers. Good, reliable car that you can count on to get you around through snow or other bad weather. The traction control is excellent as the Honda I used to own could not get up the mountain I live on in heavy snow but the Saab can.
+DR:Snaggens Your avatar looks like a psycho dentis and i belived u are a dentist and u own one. You didn't heard of this stereotype between saab and dentists, architects? I love this car too ;)
Watched your review as my friend has just bought a 2007 9-3 Anniversary edition, 2.0 diesel etc. - what a car! AND, he came over to UK to buy it (we live in Ireland) as Irish cars are a) very low spec and b) very inflated in price. He bought his in UK for 2,700 pounds and drove it over, had to pay 800 pounds total for Irish inspection, import duty and NCT test and plates but still saved the equivalent of 2,000 pounds if he ever found similar model over here! Nice review of a brilliant car. If you ever get the chance to try a VW Touran 1.4 TSI (the car I have), well, for a 1.4 petrol "people carrier", it is super charged and turbo charged (!), does around 42mpg and is FAST. Not made for speeding round corners, but on the straight, even if not in sport mode, kick down and leave your head behind :)
I’m afraid that you are in correct with the fact that it is a Vauxhall Vectra, they had Vauxhall Vectra parts and minor accessories, one of the reasons why Saab was close down because they wouldn’t toe the line and do a simple body change. If you watch top gear is feature on Saab when it closed down, they explain all
If you get one on the ramps, you will clearly see it's a world away from a Vectra, yes shares the platform, but SAAB completely changed and added to this platform, completely over engineered everything, Vauxhall did nothing to the Vectra. Very underated cars, wonder why you don't see many Vectras still driving around, yet you still see 1,000's of old SAABs 🤔
Nicely done review, always liked Saab's and that was a really nicely spec'ed car with the black leather, black exterior and Aero wheels. Also the key is placed in the centre as a safety and anti theft, with the manual car the key is used to lock the transmission in reverse and in the event of head on collision the key isn't going to be jammed into your knee.
I've actually just purchased one of these (2.0 turbo Saloon) and what you get for your money is insane! climate control, cruise control, electric memory seats, auto wipers, auto headlights, leather interior, full parking sensors and all of that for £900 with a full MOT. I can't think of another car on the market that would give you more fore you money. Absolutely brilliant cars!
I had a 1998 Saab 9-3 cabriolet. Comfortable, fast and looked great with the roof down. Had to sell it because I couldn't get all my camping gear in it.
in newer cars because everything is computer controled you don't get the ticking noise from a regular blinker relay, that is why you feel like the blinker noise is coming from the speakers because it does, it's just a sampled sound that plays when you indicate to have the ticking noise. otherwise there wouldn't be a ticking sound it would just be quiet.
+Hamza Rayaz 360bhp/600nm from a 19t sounds phenomenal. Be interested to see your dyno plots - never seen a 19t make more than 342bhp/530nm dynoed in the UK - what's the spec of your 19t?
Stuck behind a hoover wagon, that sucks!!!!!! I will get my coat. :-) though this was filmed around the Aberdaron area of Wales for a bit, slow instead of araf on road surface proved otherwise. Great video, bought a 150bhp diesel auto after watching this video. Love it. Thanks, vinny. :-)
I wanted to buy one, talked to the owner but even though he reserved the car for me, the bastard sold her next morning so I ended up with a E39 520i after 2 days. I am pleased with the E39 but I really wanted the Saab ... That turbo engine is so reliable and is able to get so much power with little to no effort (tuning).
I owned a 9-3 Aero a few years back and it was a fantastic car. Mid range was quite brutal especially after a remap and it had the best seats I've ever found in any car to date. Also look for the Viggen model for a bit of exclusivity.
It’s a Saab safety thing 😎 been around since 1970ish, when keys were mechanical and bulky...and engineers kept that tradition going in all Saab cars till 2011 models when factory shutdown...just one example of what made Saab so great, shame NEVS no go aswell, and GM blockage of sale to China etc, be nice to see this Brand resurrected even if it starts up again in Far East at first 👍🤓
Indicator clicks via speaker rather than mechanical clicker on most of other cars. If you indicating while taking your seat belt off, you will only hear the seat beat warning but click is gone.
I do love my saab. great reliability, great fun. but also: be aware if you want to keep your saab in a fine condition you might invest some money in it over the years. i personally do not mind, but just something to be aware of.
You should not really consider Saab as "opel/vauxhall" because its actually really different car. Yes they have some same parts, but its so much different actually. Saab has just created masterpiece!
I've got a '05 SAAB 9-3 Vector 1,8t myself. It's not the top of the line in regards to bhp, but my fucking GOD does it smoke so many others car that theoretically has more power. I once had an Aero infront of me, cabriolet from what I remember (very sure it was two door cabriolet) and even if the Aero is the more "sporty" version, my Vector (which is also one of the sport versions) kept up easily.. and they did very much throttle the gas. My Vector has a very sports type gearbox. So tight and solid, shifting gears is a joy. The Turbo.. I think it actually is an upgraded one, but they haven't registered it as such. It hits like crazy at 2k revs. My car has a slightly overtuned fuelconsumption, so I believe they even tuned it up some, but this must have been before my father purchased it (and subsequently gave it to me two years ago). Just a cherry on top is that it came with the Prestige 300 sound system, which features two amplifiers and a crapton of speakers. The system isn't overly huge, but for a stock system it's very good and I do not need any more. It also has bluetooth and an AUX connector. Very advanced car for a 2005 model - you find new cars with less. But then again, this car was never intended for the low-cost market. I've never driven a more fun and pleasant car. Not to mention reliable. I had an EU control done on it.. it had 4 marks that needed fixing. One break caliper on the rear right. One part related to the steering on the left front wheel (something directly translated to 'stearing ball'.. it's inside the cone or something), one bulb on the break light and.. a slowly returning seatbelt. That's it. Near 15 years old and it had but a $500 repair necessary to be completely fault free and 'street legal'. Even less if you don't consider tax. They say SAABs are expensive to maintain today; I say nonsense. Best car I have ever had. Best car I will ever have. I will keep this car until I simply can no more. It's truly a masterpiece in car engineering.
You want to sit in a SAAB, get your hands on a '67 model 96 with the 850 cc three-cylinder two stroke and four-speed column shift. Crazy-fun, point-and-shoot steering, built like a bank vault.
Hi mate. Nice review. I am actually looking to buy one of these. Estate but diesel as the 9-3 and 9-5 diesel are Fiat's very good and reliable 1.9 JTD engines that many makers use by the way and has no DPF that is a very good thing. Saab is a very very good brand in all aspects and thats why the company went broke cus their cars were so well built but the could not sell them for the price they were worth. And yes they are very cheap for what they are and offer. Personally I would have one of them over any bmw or vag. Cheers bud
Hi I’ve just bought one, first SAAB in my life, I was always into Mercedes although I’m very happy with SAAB Aero so far (touch wood) I’m just wondering if anyone can help me and answer how can I pair the iPhone with the car audio system; If it’s possible though in SAAB AERO 55 plates; Thank you in advance All the best Tom
I drive a SAAB 9-3 Vector myself. It's a slightly smaller engine, of 1.8l, but my oh fucking MY does it go. The relative small number of BHP feels vastly stronger and more efficient than cars with 200+ and it goes 0-60 (0-100km/h) at a whooping pace. Never quite bothered timing it, but suffice to say I've hurt the pride of many a BMW drivers as they try to go past me and I just speed up to leave them in the dirt. Mine has a sports-rated Turbo, so it might squeeze out some extra juice and relative low weight.. and Vectors are made more "casual sportscar" than most other sedans that aren't tripped out with all bells and whistles. Also it drinks a bit more gasoline than it should without actually wasting it, so there might be an adjustment error in the infusion controller (whatever it's called) so it boosts the BHP at the expense of longevity.. not that it has a short one to begin with. Also the exhaust comes out as white as clouds during startup on cold winter days and clear as air when she has a warm engine, so she's very well maintained with service every year. This year being the first one I won't service it because of short of funds, but I will book an appointment as soon as I have a better cash flow. And yes, the blinkers are sounded on the speaker system in SAAB's. I am not certain of the 900's, as I did have a 900 back in the day that I had to throw away. However the 9-3 I have now has a blown amplifier so the speakers don't work any longer and thus the blinkers make no sound. All in all, best car I have ever owned.. and it looks quite respectable as a non-showy car as well. You don't look at a SAAB 9-3 and think the driver is a twat with a small dick. I'm not going to comment on the "small dick" part, but I know I ain't no twat in traffic. The car just looks best among all the 'regular' cars.
slightly off topic here but what stand will you be on in the focus up at ford fair on Sunday would love to come and have a look at the car and maybe say hello , great review BTW.
I've just bought a Saab 9-3 tid 2006 for what I think is a bargain. Get to drive it tomorrow once it's taxed. How do I know if it's the 150 bhp or 120 bhp model? Drove it and was blown away by the power and how stable and solid it felt. I'm overwhelmed by the buttons everywhere and haven't figured how to work the cruise control. My Audi is 209 bhp and I think the Saab would keep up!
Love how people think its Vauxhall cars. Vauxhall did not make the engines at all, it was Saab. Both the Cadillac BLS and Vauxhall was created on the Saabs platform.
I've got a 2010 530d bmw with 40k, the wife has a 2007 Saab 9-3 1.9tid Aero with 170k on the clock the thing is bullet proof and still easily returns 50+mpg, she just uses it to go back an forth to work so sits onn the motorway all week. Thinking of replacing it with another one they are that good.
The key in the middle is because old saabs used to lock the car in reverse when you took the key out and they kept it there because it had always been there
@@Ben-wx7br true, but it is also a safety thing, so in the event of an accident your keys etc aernt in the way, jingling down from the dashboard/steering column
just one remark the engine of the aero and the turbo 1.8 was not a stock vauxhall motor Saab did quit a lot of improvements on it also the undercarriache was taking care of by Saab
Have the 9.3 convertible 2.0 hot 🥵 remapped to 285 bhp and black diamond discs and Bilstein shocks - not a touch of rust on it as waxoyled and Bilt Hamber in cavity areas
You should not really consider Saab as "opel/vauxhall" because its actually really different car. Yes they have some same parts, but its so much different .
My dad has a 2004 Saab 9-5 2.0t petrol arc and it's such a fantastic car it's rapid as you get into the higher revs but in my opinion saabs are soooo underrated
Cos there low pressure engines ;)
Dango Drifts I've got a 2003 saab 9-5 2.3t automatic Vector and the car just flies. Saabs are what vauxhalls should always have been if they'd bothered to design cars properly.
I sure will look into getting a Saab all being well in the next few years for sure
I have had five Saab cars from the 9th to 9.3t 2l and have have not had any problems .
serviced more often than Boko especially oil change .
have owned Daimler sp250 so easy types Alfa Romeo s
for long continental journeys nothing better.
It's underrated because thx to gm Saab went bankrupt in 2011 and most people don't want to buy a car that's company doesn't run anymore. Better for us tough cuz there are more used out there.
saabs are a lot of car for the money. especially since it went bust they are next to nothing. most comfiest car i ever owned
You've just driven one of the ultimate 'sleeper' cars.
Welcome to Saab....one of the most practical cars on the planet.
Even at 100k miles, the engine is just barely broken in.
They'll go for 400k plus miles with proper servicing....mine did easily.
Thanks for the head up on the mileage possibility there looking to get one of these in the next few days, 18000.00 m doesn't seem so bad from your info safe motoring everyone
They dont make cars like this anymore sad, still happy with my new Saab 93 2008 I bought yesterday , yes Iam blessed
I've had 2 both were great
@@ReggaeWise iv just got a black 2005 2.8 v6 convertible
@@Ethankeenan02 Nice Ethan a joy to ride I like the 2003 -2007 93 serie allot. I had to do some little modifications to get the same feel of driving in my 2008 Saab
There is tonnes of things about SAAB thats not just about how pretty it looks, Take a look at Ncap scores to get some idea what you become part of when you sit in one! The 2nd gen 9-3 are build on the GM Epsilon chassis that SAAB actually tweaked and made stronger & longer, Your not just sitting in a safety cell with double guage outer steel, your surrounded by airbags too, literaly!
Saab were incredible! Torque is unreal! Yes it's Vauxhall bit remember that Skoda is VW etc... Not a single fuck to give with shared parts and engines. Saab were incredible car makers
Always loved them since I was 17! Bought my first one last week at 32, a fully loaded 2011 9-3 TTiD twin turbo diesel for £3k, absolutely love the thing, so underated cars, perfect daily hack!
Great. Any updates
@@Mrak47777sorry just seen this reply, I actually sold it, and bought a Volvo V60 due to needing a hatchback boot...and absolutely regretted it!! The Volvo has now gone, what a dreadful thing, apart from the 5 cylinder engine, it was a souless thing, nothing on par with the 9-3...now looking for a later TTid again but as 'wagon ;) still have the itch to be back in a SAAB.
The 93's always had an amazing interior and just a heads up, the dash on the 93's made after 2005 was massively updated.
Fun fact:
The indicator noise IS coming from the speakers. So if you reverse and the parking sensors start beeping the indicator goes quiet.
The subwoofer is located in the trunk, "replacing" the spare wheel. But it was only available on the estate (SportCombi) if i recall correctly.
6x9's in the rear deck on the saloon/sedan
Glenn Stockinger
Yeah, thats the standard stuff, my SportSedan has them as well ;)
In the SportCombi you could get a really big one.
I love my Saab 9-3. Sound system is crazy good from factory, visibility is like no other, in love with the directional noise it goes on. Just so many little things I adore about it. Also it's true it's not a sporty car but it's definitely fun! If I were to do anything to it I'd adjust suspension but it does have a smooth ride stock.
If you thought the 9-3 Aero was quick you should see the 9-5 Aero (2.3T engine). Mid range is absolutely insane, all I do on motorways is overtake just because its so damn fun.
I have a 9-5 Aero. Can confirm. Get a Stage 3 tune on it and it's even quicker. 300 Hp and 340 ft lbs of torque. I've also always preferred the 9-5 over the 9-3.
the 2.0 aero is actually faster that the 2.3t stock vs stock , and a stage 1 2.o aero is faster than a stage 1 2.3 , although the b234 engine has more power its also alot heavier which equals it out ,
It depends on which year you're talking about, the 210HP 9-3 or the 220HP (the latest 9-3 they made) that also had AWD. The 2.0T FWD and the 9-5 2.3T (Aero) had a 0.2 difference (The older Saab 9-5 so not the newer GM boats, 1st gens). The 9-5 was the faster out of the two. With the 9-3 AWD it was probably way faster but stock vs stock of the same year 9-3 and 9-5, the 9-5 was just a tad faster. I haven't got a clue of Stg1 vs Stg1 though, the 9-5 with a Stg1 gave it tons of torque where as the 9-3 got somewhere around 40-50HP as well as a lot more torque.
you should try the 9000 aero
You should see a 2.8 V6 9-3, damn
Vauxhall / Opel /GM Epsilon platform, yes. However Saab as the naughty nephew it was, changed quite a lot even on the platform itself, mainly due to Saabs higher demands for crash safety!
Its only based on a Vauxhall Vectra, dont forget Saab changed so much in their design of this platform that to call it a Vectra is wrong. Plus Saab are understated
saabs are under-aprecciated. they are really good cars, especially for the money, you get alot of car for your money
I dig the comparison for the Vauxal... very poignant but one of the things i love about Saab, and one of the reasons why GM dropped them is because they were unwilling to just rebadge. They were sure to make sure it was up to SAAB standards and got into a lot of heat with GM for not following the basic re badge protocol and going above and beyond.
My mam has just bought one of these. I own a Vectra. I have driven both and I'm sorry Vauxhall fans but Saab is just a nicer, better design and brand.
Even if they are that same car. The Saab is just a nicer place to be, quicker and feels like a better built car.
Sort of like the difference between a Subaru Impreza and a SAAB 9-2X. The SAAB is quieter, heavier, and handles better, either in base "Linear" trim or the WRX-equivalent AERO model.
vectra suspension feels nicer i will say, my 9-3 is on coilovers from a vectra estate and it rides way better than a stock 9-3
just watched this your reactions were priceless everyone's first experience of saab. 😂 got a stage 3 tuned 2.8v6 myself 358hp 610nm absolutely love it great to see a review on a saab for once
MR MAB 358 hp!? Dang I'm getting a saab and tuning it right this moment.
I owned a 2004 Saab 93 Aero. Runs and works beautifully. I lost a 2003 Linear in a car accident and bought this car a few months back for cheap. Great car but need to know someone who can repair them. Fortunately for me I have a company in town who specializes in Saab. If you are in the Orlando, FL area check out Swede Central.
Jamie mate, I watched your video on this car about a year and a half ago before buying (and learning to drive) in my own 2005 SAAB 9-3 1.9TiD Linear, although I settled on a saloon because I was too impatient to wait for a desired estate to come available. I was sold on buying a 9-3 anyway because I love the way SAAB was, the way they insisted on doing things their way and the fact that I could go out and get a compact luxury car for £800 knowing full well that when I was younger my parents were yearning for one when they were brand new.
One year of driving later (the first 5,000miles on a provisional with my friend who helped me get my license in the end and was happy to just sit and enjoy the comfort whilst I hypermiled thing to near 60mpg at motorway speeds.
It's a big car and the interior feels big, a fellow chef at work joked he could lay across the dash. But it's easy to drive. I did some lessons in a 2018 Astra which was a nice car, actually. But the SAAB feels more engaging, I can feel the power and what the car is doing precisely through the pedals and fairly well through steering wheel (ignoring the play I've put down to age). The fifteen year old 9-3 makes for a better team mate to the driver than the brand new Astra in my opinion. The six-speed gearbox in my diesel took some getting used to however but with practise has become easier to use. The tiny turbo in my car isn't praised with a turbo gauge lie some other SAABs but it does get the car from 30-70mph in third quite nicely.
Another friend of mine had (at the time) his 2004 Audi A4 which got T-Boned by a speeding driver who failed to stop in time coming up to the roundabout. To his surprise he was lent a brand new 68 plate Jaguar XF-S as a courtesy car for four weeks while his Audi was in the shop. As one might with a hire car, he took a few liberties and tested it's limits and passed the keys around a fair bit. At the time, having only driven a 1.0l SEAT Arosa before, he let me have a go on private land. It was smooth, quiet and very comfortable but the turbo lag was very evident and off-putting for me. That car to buy new at the time would've set you back a hefty five figure sum. For just £800, I've ended up with a car that's actually more comfortable, nowhere near as hard, slower by far but better fun at legal speeds. Oh and it weighs a ton less so it drives like something smaller, a feeling that's slightly exaggerated by it being front wheel drive. Yet it's just as practical.
Anyway, in a nutshell, your review on this car is pretty damned accurate.
I have a 1.9 TID Anniversary with the DPF Removed and Remapped. Pretty quick, good cars, your review is spot on.
I own a 2006 saab 9-3 with 151,000 miles and yes, the turn signal sound comes through the Harmon Kardon speakers. Good, reliable car that you can count on to get you around through snow or other bad weather. The traction control is excellent as the Honda I used to own could not get up the mountain I live on in heavy snow but the Saab can.
Finaly some saab
"Dentist car " is true..
+ZAHARIA COSMIN (69RUP) what? I Love them, they are great cars and fun to drive. Makes LOTS of chuchu noices
+DR:Snaggens Your avatar looks like a psycho dentis and i belived u are a dentist and u own one.
You didn't heard of this stereotype between saab and dentists, architects?
I love this car too ;)
+ZAHARIA COSMIN (69RUP) haha ah lol, yeah i now that just cause u drive a Saab ur a dentist or architect or something like that lol
Dank memes bro in the 2003 9-5s the indicator noise comes from the SID unit I believe
Watched your review as my friend has just bought a 2007 9-3 Anniversary edition, 2.0 diesel etc. - what a car! AND, he came over to UK to buy it (we live in Ireland) as Irish cars are a) very low spec and b) very inflated in price. He bought his in UK for 2,700 pounds and drove it over, had to pay 800 pounds total for Irish inspection, import duty and NCT test and plates but still saved the equivalent of 2,000 pounds if he ever found similar model over here! Nice review of a brilliant car.
If you ever get the chance to try a VW Touran 1.4 TSI (the car I have), well, for a 1.4 petrol "people carrier", it is super charged and turbo charged (!), does around 42mpg and is FAST. Not made for speeding round corners, but on the straight, even if not in sport mode, kick down and leave your head behind :)
Test the Saab 9-5 aero from 2006-2009.. 2.3 liter engine with 15t turbo with 260bhp from the factory. One hell of a car.. :)
I’m afraid that you are in correct with the fact that it is a Vauxhall Vectra, they had Vauxhall Vectra parts and minor accessories, one of the reasons why Saab was close down because they wouldn’t toe the line and do a simple body change.
If you watch top gear is feature on Saab when it closed down, they explain all
If you get one on the ramps, you will clearly see it's a world away from a Vectra, yes shares the platform, but SAAB completely changed and added to this platform, completely over engineered everything, Vauxhall did nothing to the Vectra. Very underated cars, wonder why you don't see many Vectras still driving around, yet you still see 1,000's of old SAABs 🤔
I bought a 285K miles 2009 saab and my days, the car still drives GREAT!! These are great cars, you have to drive one to know it!
I realy love this vid style and the car keep up the good work and i hope you keep getting views you deserve them
Nicely done review, always liked Saab's and that was a really nicely spec'ed car with the black leather, black exterior and Aero wheels. Also the key is placed in the centre as a safety and anti theft, with the manual car the key is used to lock the transmission in reverse and in the event of head on collision the key isn't going to be jammed into your knee.
saabs are really well built... you get a lot of car for your money... its a great daily to go along side your weekend/project car
aaaaah man a saab. one of the first cars i fell in love with as a kid.
Welcome to the world of saab :)
I've actually just purchased one of these (2.0 turbo Saloon) and what you get for your money is insane! climate control, cruise control, electric memory seats, auto wipers, auto headlights, leather interior, full parking sensors and all of that for £900 with a full MOT. I can't think of another car on the market that would give you more fore you money. Absolutely brilliant cars!
Jay Girvan How's it doing?
witcha chunes on! Good video, thanks. helped me decide if I wanted to put the 9 3 on my list of potentials
I had a 1998 Saab 9-3 cabriolet. Comfortable, fast and looked great with the roof down. Had to sell it because I couldn't get all my camping gear in it.
iv just brought a saab 93 2.0t aero straight to Nottingham for remap and it's changed it so bad lovely to drive
Saab.
Amazing long distance motorway milegrinders.
in newer cars because everything is computer controled you don't get the ticking noise from a regular blinker relay, that is why you feel like the blinker noise is coming from the speakers because it does, it's just a sampled sound that plays when you indicate to have the ticking noise. otherwise there wouldn't be a ticking sound it would just be quiet.
The steering wheel is on the wrong side!
i just love the boost gauge in every saab, such a nice in built feature
You're very welcome to try my Stage 6 9-5 Aero Jamie - 450bhp/600nm - it'll certainly get your attention!😈😉😂
sounds like a really good idea!
Damn dude! I have a stage 3 9-5 Aero and that's plenty of get up and go for me.
600nm? I'm getting that with a 19t at 360 bhp have you tuned you torque down cos of the box?
+Hamza Rayaz 360bhp/600nm from a 19t sounds phenomenal. Be interested to see your dyno plots - never seen a 19t make more than 342bhp/530nm dynoed in the UK - what's the spec of your 19t?
+parky2310 kinugwa 6cm
jamie i love how you aim at all diffrent kinds of audiance what a class video i enjoyed it alot :)
Has the "proper" 17 inch alloy wheels. Looks good. These cars are fairly well engineered + sorted in the later model years.
Stuck behind a hoover wagon, that sucks!!!!!! I will get my coat. :-) though this was filmed around the Aberdaron area of Wales for a bit, slow instead of araf on road surface proved otherwise. Great video, bought a 150bhp diesel auto after watching this video. Love it. Thanks, vinny. :-)
Iv drove a saab 9-3 2.0t convertible I love the interior dash and the seats are so comfortable but supportive
I wanted to buy one, talked to the owner but even though he reserved the car for me, the bastard sold her next morning so I ended up with a E39 520i after 2 days. I am pleased with the E39 but I really wanted the Saab ...
That turbo engine is so reliable and is able to get so much power with little to no effort (tuning).
I so cant wait to get a saab ive always wanted one since i pass my test and im looking forward to actually purchasing one and owning one 😀
I owned a 9-3 Aero a few years back and it was a fantastic car. Mid range was quite brutal especially after a remap and it had the best seats I've ever found in any car to date. Also look for the Viggen model for a bit of exclusivity.
Did you have any problems after remap
The Key is down by the handbrake because if you crashed your knee would not be forced into the key
AndyTBO why not put steering wheel on the that side so you won't be hit by it.
It’s a Saab safety thing 😎 been around since 1970ish, when keys were mechanical and bulky...and engineers kept that tradition going in all Saab cars till 2011 models when factory shutdown...just one example of what made Saab so great, shame NEVS no go aswell, and GM blockage of sale to China etc, be nice to see this Brand resurrected even if it starts up again in Far East at first 👍🤓
No subwoofer. Just pure Swedish awesomness. Welcome to Saab
To be honest, so many of the reviewers who have never reviewed a Saab always slaughter it. I'm glad you weren't one of those people. +1 Sub
My dad used to have a 2010 one of these with the 1.9TDi. Very decent car and a lot more reliable and economical than his old 9-5 2.0t estate.
Indicator clicks via speaker rather than mechanical clicker on most of other cars. If you indicating while taking your seat belt off, you will only hear the seat beat warning but click is gone.
I do love my saab. great reliability, great fun. but also: be aware if you want to keep your saab in a fine condition you might invest some money in it over the years. i personally do not mind, but just something to be aware of.
You should not really consider Saab as "opel/vauxhall" because its actually really different car. Yes they have some same parts, but its so much different actually. Saab has just created masterpiece!
I currently drive a 2000 9-5 Aero Hot estate, but I'd definitely consider one of these as a daily driver in the future :)
Hillarious! About to get one of these this weekend👍
Well how was it was it reliable
@@theheaterguyryan5052 nothing major. Still drive it😎
I've got a '05 SAAB 9-3 Vector 1,8t myself. It's not the top of the line in regards to bhp, but my fucking GOD does it smoke so many others car that theoretically has more power. I once had an Aero infront of me, cabriolet from what I remember (very sure it was two door cabriolet) and even if the Aero is the more "sporty" version, my Vector (which is also one of the sport versions) kept up easily.. and they did very much throttle the gas.
My Vector has a very sports type gearbox. So tight and solid, shifting gears is a joy. The Turbo.. I think it actually is an upgraded one, but they haven't registered it as such. It hits like crazy at 2k revs. My car has a slightly overtuned fuelconsumption, so I believe they even tuned it up some, but this must have been before my father purchased it (and subsequently gave it to me two years ago). Just a cherry on top is that it came with the Prestige 300 sound system, which features two amplifiers and a crapton of speakers. The system isn't overly huge, but for a stock system it's very good and I do not need any more. It also has bluetooth and an AUX connector. Very advanced car for a 2005 model - you find new cars with less. But then again, this car was never intended for the low-cost market.
I've never driven a more fun and pleasant car. Not to mention reliable. I had an EU control done on it.. it had 4 marks that needed fixing. One break caliper on the rear right. One part related to the steering on the left front wheel (something directly translated to 'stearing ball'.. it's inside the cone or something), one bulb on the break light and.. a slowly returning seatbelt. That's it. Near 15 years old and it had but a $500 repair necessary to be completely fault free and 'street legal'. Even less if you don't consider tax. They say SAABs are expensive to maintain today; I say nonsense.
Best car I have ever had. Best car I will ever have. I will keep this car until I simply can no more. It's truly a masterpiece in car engineering.
Brilliant review mate, I've subbed up
You want to sit in a SAAB, get your hands on a '67 model 96 with the 850 cc three-cylinder two stroke and four-speed column shift. Crazy-fun, point-and-shoot steering, built like a bank vault.
Looks good. And btw the wheels also looks nice
Hi mate. Nice review. I am actually looking to buy one of these. Estate but diesel as the 9-3 and 9-5 diesel are Fiat's very good and reliable 1.9 JTD engines that many makers use by the way and has no DPF that is a very good thing.
Saab is a very very good brand in all aspects and thats why the company went broke cus their cars were so well built but the could not sell them for the price they were worth.
And yes they are very cheap for what they are and offer. Personally I would have one of them over any bmw or vag.
Cheers bud
Aaaah Saab. ❤️
I've never had a Saab but really quite fancy one next... The value for money now is unbelievable... Night mode? That sounds like sleep mode
nope. Service costs including delays
Hi
I’ve just bought one, first SAAB in my life, I was always into Mercedes although I’m very happy with SAAB Aero so far (touch wood)
I’m just wondering if anyone can help me and answer how can I pair the iPhone with the car audio system;
If it’s possible though in SAAB AERO 55 plates;
Thank you in advance
All the best
Tom
they are just a nice environment to be in
I drive a SAAB 9-3 Vector myself. It's a slightly smaller engine, of 1.8l, but my oh fucking MY does it go. The relative small number of BHP feels vastly stronger and more efficient than cars with 200+ and it goes 0-60 (0-100km/h) at a whooping pace. Never quite bothered timing it, but suffice to say I've hurt the pride of many a BMW drivers as they try to go past me and I just speed up to leave them in the dirt.
Mine has a sports-rated Turbo, so it might squeeze out some extra juice and relative low weight.. and Vectors are made more "casual sportscar" than most other sedans that aren't tripped out with all bells and whistles. Also it drinks a bit more gasoline than it should without actually wasting it, so there might be an adjustment error in the infusion controller (whatever it's called) so it boosts the BHP at the expense of longevity.. not that it has a short one to begin with. Also the exhaust comes out as white as clouds during startup on cold winter days and clear as air when she has a warm engine, so she's very well maintained with service every year. This year being the first one I won't service it because of short of funds, but I will book an appointment as soon as I have a better cash flow.
And yes, the blinkers are sounded on the speaker system in SAAB's. I am not certain of the 900's, as I did have a 900 back in the day that I had to throw away. However the 9-3 I have now has a blown amplifier so the speakers don't work any longer and thus the blinkers make no sound.
All in all, best car I have ever owned.. and it looks quite respectable as a non-showy car as well. You don't look at a SAAB 9-3 and think the driver is a twat with a small dick. I'm not going to comment on the "small dick" part, but I know I ain't no twat in traffic. The car just looks best among all the 'regular' cars.
slightly off topic here but what stand will you be on in the focus up at ford fair on Sunday would love to come and have a look at the car and maybe say hello , great review BTW.
I've just bought a Saab 9-3 tid 2006 for what I think is a bargain. Get to drive it tomorrow once it's taxed. How do I know if it's the 150 bhp or 120 bhp model? Drove it and was blown away by the power and how stable and solid it felt. I'm overwhelmed by the buttons everywhere and haven't figured how to work the cruise control. My Audi is 209 bhp and I think the Saab would keep up!
Gotta do a modified Mk3 Mondeo ST TDCI with remap should be pushing 190+hp and 350lbft :D
Very underrated cars imo
NICE SAAB love it nice review
Funny how its badged as an Aero, even tho only estate Aeros were V6. And the bodykit gives it away, too.
Love how people think its Vauxhall cars. Vauxhall did not make the engines at all, it was Saab. Both the Cadillac BLS and Vauxhall was created on the Saabs platform.
I've got a 2010 530d bmw with 40k, the wife has a 2007 Saab 9-3 1.9tid Aero with 170k on the clock the thing is bullet proof and still easily returns 50+mpg, she just uses it to go back an forth to work so sits onn the motorway all week. Thinking of replacing it with another one they are that good.
My dad has the exact same one only I live in the Netherlands.
My dad gave it a Hirsch tune with 310 Horse Power
Saabs are amazing
I heard that the saab used to be the car of choice for the SAS, the reason for the ignition being in the middle was for security... Apparently
The key in the middle is because old saabs used to lock the car in reverse when you took the key out and they kept it there because it had always been there
@@Ben-wx7br true, but it is also a safety thing, so in the event of an accident your keys etc aernt in the way, jingling down from the dashboard/steering column
The key was put in between the seats, not by the steering wheel, so that it is impossible to steal (or turn on without the key) .... Very smart!
By the way, they were never Vauxhall Vectra level, they are BMW and Audi level, the convertible is even Competed with the mid range Mercedes Benz
just one remark the engine of the aero and the turbo 1.8 was not a stock vauxhall motor Saab did quit a lot of improvements on it also the undercarriache was taking care of by Saab
The subwoofer is between the spare Wheel and the bootfloor
Have the 9.3 convertible 2.0 hot 🥵 remapped to 285 bhp and black diamond discs and Bilstein shocks - not a touch of rust on it as waxoyled and Bilt Hamber in cavity areas
It's on the short list, cheers bruh!!
Ive had three saabs in succession and now when I go abroad and hire a car I am always trying to put the ignition key in by the gear stick.
The cup holder is the highlight of this car and video hahahahaha
Do your aware off common problems getting Saab ? If yes please share. Simple stuff, reliability, cost off fixing, running costs, would appreciate this
Not a Vectra. Not at all. But apart from that it was nice to have a video on one.
I got the 2.8 Turbo, 84,000 miles for £2,300 LOL has about 275hp with a stage 1 and is a right laugh,
It's a very classy family car.
Here's a tip for all you Saab owners if you need engine parts but can't find any use parts from a vauxhall Vectra as tge engine is the same
Be a great idea to do more in the way of used car reviews 👍
just thought i'd add that if you're a new driver these can be really surprisingly cheap to insure (more so the saloon versions though)
No no no
Paul Cannon why not ?
there is a sub in my boot found it under the cover where the spare wheel is as well
you did not mention the back seat/boot ski carriage hole!
You should not really consider Saab as "opel/vauxhall" because its actually really different car. Yes they have some same parts, but its so much different .
Try a JZW stg1 remapped 2.8 (320bhp) if you want fast lol, mine never fails to disappoint except for the appalling mpg!
Great cars. Stop the vaux hate though Jamie. Try mine!
I got a Turbo X 🤘
me too!
lucky s.o.b´s :P
Just recently got to know a guy who has a 9-4X. Now that is a car.
Hi, i habe always loved saabs. Im thinking of buying one but im not quite sure of how easy it is to find parts for it?
We have a 2007 1.9 tid vector sport anniversary auto with paddle shift and got 143mph and 0-60 in 7 seconds
No subwoofer in these bro! mates dad had one and I thought the same, awesome cars, and can make at least 400 bhp on the standard block
Suborder is in the spare wheel well.
For anyone wondering it must be 2007 or older