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Saab 9-3 I 2.3 i T SE (150 Hp)
Overall Rating
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)
I Overview:
Saab 9-3 (I). With 210 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1420 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 11 s). The top speed reaches 205 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Saab 9-3 I achieved a commendable 4-star Euro NCAP rating for adult occupant protection in 2000, reflecting Saab's strong commitment to safety for its era.
2.3 i T SE (150 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Likely a naturally aspirated 2.3i with a specific trim, offering adequate but not exciting performance, similar to the standard 2.3i.
Fuel Economy
Average fuel consumption for a larger naturally aspirated engine, not particularly efficient.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Strong turbocharged engine performance (especially 2.0T and 2.3T variants)
- • Distinctive, timeless Scandinavian design
- • Excellent seating comfort, particularly on long journeys
- • Good safety features for its era (4-star Euro NCAP)
- • Engaging handling and driving dynamics for a FWD car
- • Spacious interior and practical hatchback body style
Cons:
- • High fuel consumption for petrol models, especially the more powerful turbos
- • Some reliability concerns, particularly with DI cassettes and age-related electrical issues
- • Interior design can feel dated compared to rivals
- • Torque steer can be pronounced on high-performance models
- • Parts availability can be a challenge post-Saab bankruptcy
- • Automatic transmissions can be sluggish and impact performance/economy
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Saab |
| Model: | 9-3 |
| Generation: | I |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.3 i T SE (150 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1998 |
| End of production: | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Hatchback |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 3-5 |
| 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: | 14.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.6 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 205 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 9.5 kg/Hp, 105.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.8 kg/Nm, 147.9 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 10.5 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1420 |
| Max. weight: | 1910 |
| Max load: | 490 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1314 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 494 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 68 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4629 mm mm |
| Width: | 1711 mm mm |
| Height: | 1428 mm mm |
| Wheelbase: | 2605 mm mm |
| Front track: | 1452 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1442 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
If you could change one thing about the Saab 9-3, what would it be?