Saab 9-3 Cabriolet I 2.3i (150 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.4 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Saab 9-3:

The Saab 9-3 is a compact executive car initially developed and manufactured by the Swedish automaker Saab.
The first generation 9-3 is based on the GM2900 platform, changing to the GM Epsilon platform with the introduction of the second-generation car. Other vehicles using this platform include the Opel Vectra, Chevrolet Malibu, and Cadillac BLS.
National Electric Vehicle Sweden , Saab's then parent company briefly assembled a few 9-3 sedans during 2013 and 2014....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Cabriolet I Overview:

Saab 9-3 (Cabriolet I). With 210 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1400 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 10 s). The top speed reaches 210 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

2.3i (150 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

Similar power to the SE, providing adequate acceleration for daily driving. The 10-second 0-100km/h suggests a manual gearbox, offering better driver engagement.

Fuel Economy

Expected to have similar, if not slightly better, fuel economy than the automatic SE variant due to manual transmission efficiency.

Best Use Case: Daily Driving / Highway

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Distinctive and timeless Scandinavian design
  • • Comfortable and supportive seats, ideal for long journeys
  • • Strong turbocharged engine options offering engaging performance
  • • Good safety features for its era, including a 4-star Euro NCAP rating
  • • Practical convertible with decent trunk space for its class
  • • Unique driving experience compared to German rivals

Cons:

  • • Some scuttle shake common in convertibles of this era
  • • Fuel economy can be high, especially with the more powerful turbo engines
  • • Aging electrical systems can lead to minor issues
  • • Interior design can feel dated compared to newer cars
  • • Parts availability can be a concern for specific Saab components

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Saab
Model:9-3
Generation:Cabriolet I
Modification (Engine):2.3i (150 Hp)
Start of production:1998
End of production:2000
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Cabriolet
Seats:4
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:150 Hp @ 5700 rpm.
Power per litre:65.5 Hp/l
Torque:210 Nm @ 4300 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:B234i
Engine displacement:2290
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:4 l
Coolant:8.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:90 mm mm
Piston Stroke:90 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:13.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.1 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:10 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:10 sec
Maximum speed:210 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9.3 kg/Hp, 107.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6.7 kg/Nm, 150 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:9.5 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1400
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:378 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:295 l
Fuel tank capacity:68 l
Size:
Length:4629 mm mm
Width:1711 mm mm
Height:1440 mm mm
Wheelbase:2605 mm mm
Front track:1452 mm
Rear (Back) track:1442 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size195/60 R15
Wheel rims size15
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Fuel, speed, and comfort: How does the Saab 9-3 rank in your book?