2004 Saab 9-3 Convertible Road Test

But who wants to ride in the back when the driver's seat beckons. Alas, this time it's only a short run home, where I park in

The 9-3 Convertible is the perfect car for what will be a very memorable day. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

my garage and sit back just for a moment to relish the day's experiences. The kids will be making noise in the house for sure, my wife needing a well deserved break will no doubt replace me in the 9-3's driver's seat shortly, and my hectic schedule will once again consume my every thought. But today I had a perfect day. Yes, today is a day I'll remember for some time. And with that memory will be positive thoughts about a certain lime yellow Saab 9-3 convertible.

I reach down to the lower console mounted ignition switch to retrieve the oh-so-cool electronic keyfob and... ahh... what's that I hear through the speakers? Radiohead's "Fake Plastic Trees..." OK, maybe I'll sit here and enjoy the moment just a few minutes longer.

Specifications:

• Base Price (MSRP): $56,500 - $63,420
• Body Type: 2-door convertible
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Opt Engine: 210 hp, 221 lb-ft of torque, 2.0-L, 16-valve, DOHC, turbocharged I-4
• Transmission: 6-spd manual (opt 5-spd auto)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, EBD, BA
• Curb Weight: 1,580 kg (3,483 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 4
• Cargo Volume (trunk): 328 L (11.6 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): N/A
• Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
• Competitors: Audi A4 Cabriolet, BMW 3-Series Convertible, Chrysler Sebring Convertible, Ford Mustang Convertible, Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabriolet, MINI Cooper Convertible, Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, Toyota Solara Convertible, VW New Beetle Convertible, Volvo C70 Convertible
• Web Site: www.gmcanada.com

Note: If you want lots of detailed specs and lists of standard and optional features check the archives for the 2004 Saab 9-3 Convertible Preview. Also, additional larger photos are available in the photo album.