2004 Saab 9-3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The 2004 model brought several additional changes for the Saab 9-3. The 9-3 SE Convertible had survived model lineup revisions in 2003,...
The 2004 model brought several additional changes for the Saab 9-3. The 9-3 SE Convertible had survived model lineup revisions in 2003, but Saab has now discontinued the SE nomenclature in favor of two new models: Arc and Aero Convertibles. Aero is a new trim name this year, replacing the top shelf Vector. Several new options are also available this year, including bi-xenon headlamps, rear park assist (sedans), and a tire pressure monitor (included in the Sport Wheel Package).
There are five 9-3 variants for 2004: two convertibles and three sedans. The sedan is available in the base Linear, mid-level Arc and the high-end Aero styles. The convertible is offered in the two upper-level trims. The 9-3's price spectrum is quite broad, with the Arc sedan retailing for about $10,000 less than the Arc convertible.
All 9-3s are powered by some variation of Saab's turbocharged 2.0 liter inline four. The Linear Sedan is supplied with 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, and the small turbo power plant is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy is estimated at 23/34 mpg, or 21/30 with the optional five-speed automatic. All other models feature an additional turbo boost, which bumps horsepower to 210 and torque to 221 pound-feet. The Arc comes with a five-speed manual, while the Aero gets a six-speed. Fuel economy is just a bit lower with this power plant, but mixed driving averages are in the mid-20s (mpg) with either transmission.
The overall 9-3 design has been a strong selling point for consumers. The 9-3 offers distinguished styling, but the layout also creates a very spacious interior and a notably large trunk. Owners also express great satisfaction with the 9-3's power and performance, especially when the attractive fuel economy numbers are factored in to the equation. Drivers have also been very pleased with the handling and ride quality, but the 9-3's front-wheel drive train is rather limiting with regard to true sporting performance. Other common jeers are directed at lower-quality interior materials, significant depreciation, frequency and cost of service and overall reliability.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers are quite fond of the 2004 Saab 9-3, praising its performance, comfort, and unique styling. Many enjoy the turbo engine's power and the car's handling, especially during highway driving. The sound system and some interior features received mixed reviews, with a few drivers indicating that the stereo could be improved. Some noted potential high costs for repairs and an outdated interior design as negatives."
comfortable, built like a tank, fast, great gas mileage.
June 6, 2008This car has 210 HP turbo that is pretty fast, it seems much faster than it states as far as HP. It passes very well in low gears and does 0 to 60 in the low 6's.
February 11, 2008The definition of a Grand Touring Car. Cruising at 90 mph is easy, efficient, and a pleasure. Friends of mine often voice when initially seating in the car "...wow, did you steal James Bond's car?" lol. The build quality throughout the vehicle is 2nd to none! I can't sum up this car in anything brief except this. Go test drive one.
July 28, 2008What owners say
comfortable, built like a tank, fast, great gas mileage.
June 6, 2008This car has 210 HP turbo that is pretty fast, it seems much faster than it states as far as HP. It passes very well in low gears and does 0 to 60 in the low 6's.
February 11, 2008The definition of a Grand Touring Car. Cruising at 90 mph is easy, efficient, and a pleasure. Friends of mine often voice when initially seating in the car "...wow, did you steal James Bond's car?" lol. The build quality throughout the vehicle is 2nd to none! I can't sum up this car in anything brief except this. Go test drive one.
July 28, 2008The car has a number of features that make this a true four season, family convertible. The car has four seats which are usable, the roof line isn't too low, and the performance is well suited to the car. Truly capable of hitting it's 137mph top speed, but just as happy pootling around town
May 26, 2008Amazing engine for a 2.0l 4 banger, 12.4psi from 2200-redline, max torque (230 ft/lbs) 2200-5k, perfetly geared 6-speed gearbox, no road noise (except winter tires), traction control is too good (no burnouts)
January 6, 2008Overall, I enjoyed driving this car as a daily driver. It's styling was great, had great fuel economy with the 4-cyl turbo and pretty decent handling. The power lag was noticeable and annoyed me. It would always be a second or two before the turbo kicked in and you could get going. I feel like this car was way overpriced brand new at over $40K (I believe). I also feel like GM had too much influence in this model with cheap materials. It became apparent when I hit over 50K miles and things started to chip away or brake off and noises/rattles made a presence.
September 18, 2012Born from jets... It's the only thing that you should know about Saab in general. It goes like hell, very comfy and really not much to dislike about it. Also a very safe family saloon which is a very good allarounder.
April 27, 2011Stage 2 power at 255 hp and 290 ft/lb, quick from 60-100, 0-100 about 13 sec. lots of fun for the money. has minor electrical problems and bad headlights, but mechanically works like a dream. sounds fierce for only a four banger.
July 8, 2009I love my car - still...after 4 years of driving it like crazy. Even before we had it tuned by Frank of SQR (Sweden), it was fast - pulled nice and hard and handled really well. Now, well, hold on tight when you floor it! I've had it on the track a few times (Thunderhill - Willows, CA), and it's so much fun. Admittedly, it can't keep up with the high-powered Corvettes or Vipers on the straight, but it has nearly always trounced them through the curves (sure - driver experience has something to do with that, too) - the handling is superb. It has had its share of minor mechanical issues, but nothing earth-shattering in severity or cost. Besides bumper wear from city parking it still looks good and the interior still feels and looks like new. I would (and often do) recommend this car. But if you're a driver who is less concerned with performance, opt for another trim level - the sport suspension of the Aero often proves too jarring for some who prefer a softer, squishier ride.
August 14, 2008Ok well Saabs are known for the Turbos and they have done an amazing job with that 2.oL engine over the years. 2ed Geaar is sooo long and once the turbo spools OMG hold on because your in for a treat!! its goes from about 40 to 100 faster then you can swallow in 2ed. The interior is top notch, being an afordable lux car it is quite impresive, fomr the key it uses, to the controls, transmission and how it tells you which light bulb is out.
March 29, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $40,690 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.0L 210 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 23 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $43,195 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.0L 210 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 23 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $31,180 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 210 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 14.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $33,380 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 210 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 14.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $26,785 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 175 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 14.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
