[mabthera]

I know I know ... this has been discussed before and I'm sure some of you will tell me to go and read up some of the old threads, but I just want to get this off my chest.

I've had my S40 2.4i for ~ 1.5 years now and overall I guess I am satisfied with it, although I have to admit I am starting to get fickle and want to move on ...

I know that the Saab 9-3 is of an older platform and older technology overall, but I can't help but admire the wonderful lines it has ... although the design has been around for ~ 4 years now, it still looks great. I have test driven it before and although the chassis is not as tight, the 2.0t engine is more fun ... and I guess the Saab has a better weight-to-power ratio as well ...

Can anyone of you give any comments in comparing the two cars?

 

[Nebor]

It would be more fair to compare the S40 T5 with the Saab 9-3. Regardless, I'd take the Saab. It handles better and has a better motor with more horsepower potential.

 

[eurotrash]

Re: S40 2.4i vs Saab 9-3 2.0t (mabthera)

Have you ever owned a SAAB? I'd take a serious look at reliability and the dealer network in your area- find out if the dealer is good and if there are good independent shops. A lousy dealer can ruin a car. With most cars, if you don't like a particular dealer, you can go somewhere else to get service. It's a lot harder with a SAAB (or at least in certain places).

Other than that, it's all up personal preferences.

 

[v50t5black]

Re: S40 2.4i vs Saab 9-3 2.0t (mabthera)

I'd stay away from the SAAB if you value reliability. I owned an '86 SAAB 900 Turbo 5 speed. I had to have the transmission rebuilt. My Father owned a '96 900 Turbo. He had to have the head gasket replaced. My brother-in-law owned a '01 9-3 Turbo. He had to have the engine rebuilt. My wife presently owns an '01 9-3 Turbo. At ~70k it started to puff blue smoke on start up.

I love the way the SAAB's handle, their looks, utility and their performance but I am no longer willing to put up with their poor reliability and poor dealerships. After my wife's '01, I am through with SAAB.

If you haven't guessed, I'd opt for the Volvo.

 

[V50_T5]

Re: S40 2.4i vs Saab 9-3 2.0t (v50t5black)

trick question? asking the Worlds Largest internet Volvo club , how should we reply? (could be our answers might be biased ????)

but the new 9-3 wagon V-6 turbo seems like a nice alternative , if I didn't buy a V50 T5. don't know if that helps