Saab has been out of production for a while, but it continues to have a fan base. One of those fans is Kees Schafrat, who has driven his Saab 9-3 2.0 Convertible for more than half a million kilometers over nine years. AutoWeek tested Schafrat’s vehicle, which was purchased for its mileage potential, not because it was a convertible.
Schafrat’s daily commute involves driving from Zeist to Twente and back, resulting in 1,000 kilometers of travel per week. He is the director and owner of a chain of six larger bookstores called Broekhuis located in the middle and east of the country. He prefers the Saab 9-3 because he thinks it is stylish and not ostentatious.
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Good car maintenance is a condition for it to serve you well
Schafrat’s Saab is well maintained, with two service appointments a year, and he keeps it in a garage. He does not expect any problems during the AutoWeek’s test of his vehicle by Joep Schuurman.
Interestingly, Schafrat did not seek out a convertible when he went looking for a replacement for his previous Saab 9-3, which had logged almost 350,000 kilometers. He found a new-looking Saab 9-3 Cabriolet from 2011 at Automobielbedrijf Zeeuw in Zwijndrecht after Saab had declared bankruptcy.
Although there were concerns about the availability of parts, Schafrat’s regular Saab garage, Karssen in Driebergen, reassured him that there would be enough parts available for the next few years. Schafrat purchased the cabriolet for €38,000, including everything, with only 3,000 kilometers on the odometer. Although he is not a big fan of convertibles, he bought it because it was one of the last Saabs produced.
The AutoWeek test of Saab after half million kilomteres on the clock
The AutoWeek test revealed that the Saab 9-3 Convertible performed well, despite having more than half a million kilometers on the clock. The car still had a tight suspension, with the exception of the back, where it seemed to wobble slightly. The engine still runs smoothly, with no oil consumption, and the transmission shifted smoothly. The brakes were still responsive, with a reasonable pedal feel.
The interior of the vehicle, despite being nine years old and having over half a million kilometers, still looks well-maintained. The leather upholstery is still in excellent condition, and the dashboard and infotainment system are still functioning well. The Saab 9-3 convertible’s roof mechanism still works perfectly, and there were no leaks in the cabin during the test.
Schafrat’s Saab Cabriolet appears to be in excellent condition, even after nine years and over half a million kilometers. The test showed that the vehicle is still a reliable and stylish option for those who enjoy driving Saabs. It is clear that Saab vehicles are well-built and can withstand long-term use, which is one reason why they continue to have a loyal fan base even after the company’s production ceased.
Saab enthusiasts, who are looking for a Saab 9-3 Convertible, should consider purchasing this model. AutoWeek also reports that this Saab has been offered for sale several times, with Schafrat being approached at his work in Hengelo by interested buyers who left notes on his car. However, Schafrat has not yet decided to sell his vehicle.
Is there a future for the Saab Convertible?
Based on the information provided, it sounds like the Saab 9-3 Convertible has been well-maintained and has a good chance of passing a vehicle inspection in future. However, there are a few issues that need to be addressed, such as the curved brake discs that need to be replaced and the worn windscreen. The fact that the car is leaking some oil may also require attention in the near future.
Overall, if these issues are taken care of, there’s no reason why the Saab 9-3 Convertible can’t continue to provide reliable transportation for its owner. With proper care and maintenance, this car could last for several more years.
In conclusion, Saab may no longer be in production, but the Saab 9-3 Cabriolet is still a reliable and stylish option for those who want to drive a Saab.
I drive a SAAB 9.3 TURBO Convertible AND although the check engion light is on with all the other lights on maybe electric problem it still drives me hundreds of miles every day it starts everytime with a good battery , but can’t find anyone to work on the electric because it’s a SAAB
Best to learn to diy – saabs are easy to work on just need the correct tools
I drive the Saab 9.3 , with all the lights on, never had problems, and will continue driving it. Love my car.
my saab 9-3 2002 was running great then one day it turned over as usual but did not start, After replacing the fuel relay and the cps my mechanic said he thought the timing chain had jumped.He said the compression was different on each cylinder. Any thoughts on this