16-Year-Old’s Unexpected Pick: Why the Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible Stood Out Among 28 Cars

A Garage Full of Choices—But One Stood Out

For most teenagers, their first car is whatever they can scrape together enough money for—usually an aging sedan or a hand-me-down from family. But 16-year-old Nick had a vastly different experience. Thanks to his father’s extensive 28-car collection, he had the rare opportunity to test drive multiple vehicles and select his favorite. Among the options? A Maserati, a Dodge Dynasty, a Ford Crown Victoria, and a 2007 Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible.

While some might assume a 16-year-old would gravitate toward a flashy badge like Maserati, Nick shocked even his father by choosing the Saab—a brand known for its engineering excellence, turbocharged performance, and Scandinavian design. But why? Let’s break down why the 9-3 Aero Convertible emerged as the clear winner!

Why Not the Maserati? A Teen’s Thought Process

At first, the Maserati seemed like the natural frontrunner. The 1989 Maserati TC by Chrysler, a $110,000 sports car when new, had an allure that was hard to ignore. With its turbocharged engine and luxurious interior, it had the makings of a dream car for a young driver. However, once behind the wheel, Nick quickly realized its limitations:

• Aged performance – Despite the Maserati badge, the old 2.2L turbocharged four-cylinder felt sluggish by modern standards.
• Handling concerns – While it had style, it lacked the precise handling Nick was hoping for.
• Limited practicality – As a 16-year-old, he needed something reliable and easy to maintain, and the Maserati’s rare parts supply raised red flags.

After a brief but insightful test drive, the Maserati was ruled out.

Eliminating the Weak Links: Dodge Dynasty & Ford Crown Victoria

Nick’s next choices, the Dodge Dynasty and the Ford Crown Victoria, didn’t fare much better. The Dynasty had a classic, boxy American charm, but it suffered from severe misfiring and poor handling. It was clear this wasn’t a car built for spirited driving.

As for the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, while it had the V8 power and undeniable presence, it wasn’t what Nick was looking for in his first car.

That left just one contender—the Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible.

The Saab 9-3 Aero: A Surprising Yet Sensible Choice

With the competition fading, Nick climbed behind the wheel of the 2007 Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible, and almost instantly, it felt right. This turbocharged 2.8L V6 beast wasn’t just about raw speed—it delivered balanced power, comfort, and a level of uniqueness that set it apart.

Why the Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible Won Nick Over

• Turbocharged Thrill: Saab’s 2.8L turbocharged V6 delivers 250 horsepower, making it both powerful and engaging to drive.
• Superior Ride Comfort: Unlike the Crown Vic’s stiff ride or the Maserati’s age-worn suspension, the 9-3 Aero provided a smooth, responsive ride.
• Unique Yet Practical: Saab convertibles are rare, but they aren’t impractical. The fully automatic convertible top, quiet cabin, and high-quality interior added to the appeal.
• Saab Engineering Legacy: Even for a teenager unfamiliar with Saab’s history, the build quality and driving experience spoke for itself.

After just one test drive, Nick knew he had found his car.

A Car Enthusiast in the Making?

Nick’s unexpected decision to choose a Saab may be a sign of a budding car enthusiast. While many young drivers chase after mainstream sports cars, he recognized the hidden brilliance of a Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible.

His father, initially surprised, later admitted it was a great choice. Unlike the Maserati, which required constant attention, the Saab was built for both enjoyment and reliability.

This purchase also marks the beginning of Nick’s own car journey. He hinted at possibly starting a YouTube channel, which could mean future restoration projects, Saab upgrades, and car reviews. Maybe he’s on the path to becoming a full-fledged Saab enthusiast without even realizing it.

See Nick’s Decision for Yourself

Curious to see the full process of Nick choosing his first car? Watch the video where he test-drives multiple options before landing on the Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible.

📺 Watch the full video here:

The Saab 9-3: A Future Classic?

Nick’s choice of the Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible highlights the enduring appeal of Saab engineering. While Saab may no longer be in production, its legacy remains strong among enthusiasts. The turbocharged power, balanced chassis, and Scandinavian craftsmanship make the 9-3 Aero a car that still turns heads today.

For a 16-year-old stepping into the car world, there are few better ways to start. As Saab cars become rarer and more sought after, Nick’s first car could very well become a modern classic in the near future.