Those unfamiliar with the Saab brand may find the dash controls a little daunting at first, but they actually make sense after a little acclimatization. So does that bizarre floor-console mounted ignition switch. To prove the point, just drive around your regular car while wearing shorts. The cold ring of keys constantly whapping you on the right knee, over and over, could be considered the automotive equivalent of Chinese water torture, and anything distracting is a safety issue. Saab's ignition switch solution is within easy reach but out of the driver's way, a smart and safe idea I wish more automakers would adopt.
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| Those unfamiliar with the Saab brand may find the dash controls a little daunting at first, but they actually make sense after a little acclimatization. (Photo: General Motors) |
Saab is well respected for safety, a Swedish tradition, and the 9-3 follows suit. Along with an exceptionally strong body shell with the requisite crumple zones and impact protection beams, dual front airbags were standard as were anti-lock brakes.
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| If you want a Viggen you better move fast, as a good example will only last a day in the classifieds. (Photo: Alexandra General Motors) |
While Saab would no doubt appreciate a wider audience, both new and used models only sell to a thin slice of the relatively healthy premium sport sedan market. But still the 9-3 manages to keep its resale value quite high, with used examples being snatched up quickly when they go on the market. If you want a Viggen, you better join a local Saab enthusiasts club and let them know you're in the market, as a good example will only last a day in the classifieds.
This speaks well for Saab. Brand loyalty is difficult to attain and easy to destroy, but for the most part GM has done a good job keeping 'Saab-ness' intact - at least I could say this before I caught wind a Chevy Trailblazer was about to get the Saab treatment - what a ridiculous idea. Nevertheless, the original 9-3 is a worthy successor to the legendary 900 and worthwhile to investigate, even if you're not a dyed in the wool Saab fan.