2004 Saab 9-3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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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.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2004 Saab 9-3
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Paola le B
Mar 13, 2024
This car so far has lived up to my expectationsMar 13, 2024
by Anonymous
May 25, 2022
I think the car looks great
Is the price great tooMay 25, 2022
by Malkijah R
Jan 12, 2021
The Saab 93 Aero is my personal favorite car. The reason for this, is the car has a large number of standard features and an extremely safe vehicle to drive. The 4 cycle turbo gives me the ability to drive aggressive and save money at the pump with descent fuel economy. The car is very comfortable and the view of the dashboard are bonus especially for long drives. The car has a lot of quirky things like the turn signal sound in my speakers and the ignition next the gear shifter. Thats the reason I purchased the vehicle because of its nontraditional feel and appeal. The vehicle is well engineered which could be a good thing or bad. The car will run for a very long time but if something was to break the cost is very expensive and only a handful of people can repair this car properly. So, if you are considering this vehicle and up to the task of having a niche car than this, then go for it.Jan 12, 2021
User rating:
by Paola le B
Mar 13, 2024
This car so far has lived up to my expectationsMar 13, 2024
by Anonymous
May 25, 2022
I think the car looks great
Is the price great tooMay 25, 2022
by Malkijah R
Jan 12, 2021
The Saab 93 Aero is my personal favorite car. The reason for this, is the car has a large number of standard features and an extremely safe vehicle to drive. The 4 cycle turbo gives me the ability to drive aggressive and save money at the pump with descent fuel economy. The car is very comfortable and the view of the dashboard are bonus especially for long drives. The car has a lot of quirky things like the turn signal sound in my speakers and the ignition next the gear shifter. Thats the reason I purchased the vehicle because of its nontraditional feel and appeal. The vehicle is well engineered which could be a good thing or bad. The car will run for a very long time but if something was to break the cost is very expensive and only a handful of people can repair this car properly. So, if you are considering this vehicle and up to the task of having a niche car than this, then go for it.Jan 12, 2021
by Anthony M
Sep 14, 2020
It’s reliable and good mileage vehicle if prefer this car.Sep 14, 2020
by Anonymous
Aug 31, 2020
I love the car and it has a signal to let you know if you are too close to something. I need to learn to system operations like changing the time on the clock. The car is really nice.Aug 31, 2020
by Byron W
Jul 12, 2014
This is a Great car, with great features for the age. It is 10 years old but does not look out of date on the outside. However, on the inside this car does look out of date. It drives very well but if you do have an issue, be prepared to pay a lot of money.Jul 12, 2014
by Anonymous
Mar 31, 2014
Appearance is great. Very comfortable and quiet drive. The turbo offers a lot of power. The gas mileage was as listed by the manufacturer. I got 30mpg when driving long trips, and never got less than 23mpg with a city/hwy mix. It has a huge trunk and the rear seats fold down for larger items to fit in the trunk. ABS breaking and traction controls along with all the airbags that it has made me feel very safe in stormy weather. The back seats offer minimal leg room if you have tall people in the front seats, as the case with all compact cars.Mar 31, 2014
by Scott G
Feb 20, 2014
I had a BMW Z3 convertible but it was noisy and had no room to take a trip. I get all the performance in the Saab 9-3 Convertible plus back seats and space for luggage. This car is fun to drive, comfortable on long trips and gets great MPG.Feb 20, 2014
by Anonymous
Nov 18, 2013
This is the quickest and most agile car I have owned so far. All you need to do to have a little fun is press the ESP button to turn of the stability control and the car gets a totally different personality, especially using manual shifting. Although city mileage is average for the size/weight, highway mileage is great for an old car that's this much fun. New pads/rotors are very cheap online if you know how to shop and since it shares many mechanical parts with other GM vehicles, maintaining it shouldn't cost an arm and a leg. Other than a CD player that won't eject, l have had no other issues in the eight months I've had it so far.Nov 18, 2013
by Travis T
Sep 18, 2012
Overall, 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.Sep 18, 2012
by Lou L
Apr 07, 2012
Great car, descent power and very fuel efficient, but this car does although requires premium fuel. I also has a very roomy trunk, very comfortable front seats, and an amazing amount of gadgets and interesting features that most cars do not have. But I've owned my so far for 2 years and put over 25k miles problem free, the only limitation is the fact that it's front wheel drive.Apr 07, 2012
by Mihai M
Apr 27, 2011
Born 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.Apr 27, 2011
by Anonymous
Dec 28, 2010
i love this car. great in peformance and has great Quality. i believe has the best appearance for a 2004 sedan. This car is fun to drive. acceleration in this car is awsome. i would recommend this car to my friends. Dec 28, 2010
by Jim H
Jul 15, 2010
150hp engine does go but its no rocket the seats hug you in nicely and holds the road pretty well
I havent had to pay for anything yet as the cars still under warrenty but the parts are GM and are readily available
I love the way it looks inside and out i like to think its a bit ddifferent to other saloon cars on the roadJul 15, 2010
by Missy M
Apr 09, 2010
great performance--its quick!! the only downfall has been the front springs breaking--thank god it didn't happen while i was driving!! it was a huge expense with no help from the dealer or gm!!! i get 30 plus mpg!Apr 09, 2010
by John Mark A
Feb 22, 2010
very fun car and now that Saab is belly up not a good car to own we gave it to my son Robert kind of a pre-grad gift the only reason the bad overall rating is Saab is no moreFeb 22, 2010
by Rudawg S
Jul 08, 2009
Stage 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. Jul 08, 2009
by Jan F
Jun 23, 2009
Its just amazing! Has to to experienced :D Only thing that sucks is the CD players that Saab uses, theire connections arent made for " Upgrading your soundsystem" , and they have a tendensy to be broken. But exept that its the BEST!Jun 23, 2009
by Marcus W
Jun 10, 2009
Beatiful looking vehicle, very well-designed interior, except for the HVAC controls. Decent performance, but fantastic MPG. Maintenance has been average, some parts can be expensive, but much cheaper than the Volvo convertible this replaced. The car is lots of fun to drive, especially with the top down. It's a great cruiser, good handling, decent maintenance and best of all, it's paid for!Jun 10, 2009
by Justin A
Apr 21, 2009
Performance - Acceleration wasn't bad from a stop,
but it really shined in the mid and upper RPM range.
60-80mph is about 4 seconds, making it a blast to
drive on the highway. Handling was very tight and
offered good feedback for a FWD car, torque steer was
non-existant. Apr 21, 2009
by Hans H
Apr 02, 2009
performance- the usual turbo lag.
build quality- overall pretty good, but slight rattles are
audible
appearance- love it. definitely unique and gorgeous
cost of ownership- great gas mileage, i get 31 hw, overall
around 27
fun factor-sport shift is fun, but would rather have a stick
shiftApr 02, 2009
by Rose A
Nov 18, 2008
This is a beautiful car, very powerful and economical too. It picks up like a jet! For the price of a luxury sports sedan, this is good. I am very happy with this car. My next car will defintely be a SAAB again, perhaps an aero! Okay, thanks you, I think that sums it all...okay thanks I will never fill out another review like this if you ask me to!Nov 18, 2008
by Robert H
Oct 12, 2008
This is actually a linear convertable but it was not availiable in the options, Great car, best i've ever owned. Very smooth for a two liter 4 pot, however it exellerates like a bus when it's off boost. The body is suprisingly solid for a car with no roof. Being Swedish built it has fantastic safety features.Oct 12, 2008
by Philip Z
Oct 07, 2008
This is the coolest cab there is!! The engine is great, the looks are perf, the performanse is great og the sound and handling is over the top.... mutch cooler than Audi a4 cab...And the price is very reasnable. the speaker system could be better. But i love Saab got one now and would buy one at any day!!!Oct 07, 2008
by John R
Sep 15, 2008
This car is a blast to drive! Great sporty appearance with an agressive 2.0L turbocharged engine to match, for the true driving experience I opted for the 5 speed manual transmission. Performance is incredible, awesome acceleration, insane handling and great braking all while averaging 33 MPG! Build quality is up to par for a European car, low wind noise, no squeeks or rattles except for a squeeky clutch. My only complaint: unsupportive seats and a numb audio system, both are adressed with the Aero package which is what my next one will have.Sep 15, 2008
by Afzal B
Aug 18, 2008
Great alternative to average mill of the market like Honda, Toyota etc... Exceptionally smooth ride, I've heard people say Audi has a smooth ride... Driven both, I think this is far nicer. Not knocking Audi, I love the Audi as well, A6 perhaps might be my next car. Performance is well balanced, handling could be more aggressive but then you'd loose the comfort. Overall great car. Pretty good gas mileage as well, average usually 28+, highway with aggressive driving around 32-33, people with lighter food then mine can yield 34-36mpg.Aug 18, 2008
by Laurie S
Aug 14, 2008
I 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.Aug 14, 2008
by Sean H
Jul 28, 2008
The 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.Jul 28, 2008
by Shawny A
Jun 06, 2008
comfortable, built like a tank, fast, great gas mileage. Jun 06, 2008
by Kris M
Jun 04, 2008
Silver Arc with Turbo.Leather interior, auto everything, 6 disc changer with awsome stereo system. Couldn't ask for a better car.Jun 04, 2008
by Andy C
May 26, 2008
The 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 townMay 26, 2008
by Bo Y
May 07, 2008
a perfect combination of rarity, ride comfort, fuel economy, quality, and perforance if necessary.May 07, 2008
by Scott W
May 06, 2008
Smooth 5 speed . Great inerior and options with a 16 valve 2.0 with turbocharger. May 06, 2008
by Matt L
Mar 29, 2008
Ok 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. Mar 29, 2008
by Hawk W
Mar 22, 2008
loved it
the new ones arn't the sameMar 22, 2008
by Patrick T
Feb 11, 2008
This 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.Feb 11, 2008
by Andreas K
Feb 08, 2008
Nice car with interior rattle as a flawFeb 08, 2008
by Raymond L
Jan 06, 2008
Amazing 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)Jan 06, 2008
by Esther L
Jan 03, 2008
Interior is leather and heated handling of wheel is good. fuel consumption is excellent although the fuel to empty gauge is never accurate. the automatic roof comes off easy and can operate when driving under 20km/ph which is handy. Stereo system could do better, lots of room at the back for a convertible.Jan 03, 2008
What users have asked
2004 Saab 93 Convertible Windshield Cowl
I have a 2004 Saab 93 convertible and the windshield cowl needs to be replaced. I have searched any sites that makes parts and all they have are windshield cowls for sedans. Will the sedan part fit my convertible or am I just out of luck with my cowl?
46 views
Air Conditioning
I had problems last year with my air conditioning, had it repaired, compressor problem. Now almost a year later, the air conditioning is going bad again. Sometimes it works, looks like the same problem as last year. Does anyone have the same problem. I have a 2004 9-3 linear, 5 speed.
9964 views
What causes the "gearbox malfunction" warning
Just got a "Gearbox Malfunction" warning and the associated "check engine" warning. What causes this warning and can it be cleared? The car seems to be ok???
3825 views
Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2004 Saab 9-3?Compare this car
2004 Saab 9-3 Pricing
Original MSRP
$26,785 to $43,195Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Pioneer · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Sunroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Pioneer · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Sunroof: power glass
Safety
Impact sensor: post-collision safety system · Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Pioneer · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Sunroof: power glass
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Telematics
Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Pioneer · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power folding · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bucket
Roof
Convertible roof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Pioneer · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bucket
Roof
Convertible roof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Telematics
Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing