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Saab 9-3 I 2.3 T (230 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 350 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1380 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.8 s). The top speed reaches 250 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 T (230 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The pinnacle of performance for the 9-3 I, delivering exhilarating power and very quick acceleration, characteristic of the Viggen model.
Fuel Economy
Very high fuel consumption, especially when driven hard, making it an expensive car to fuel regularly.
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:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Cabriolet I: 1998 - 2000).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Saab |
| Model: | 9-3 |
| Generation: | I |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.3 T (230 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2000 |
| End of production: | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Hatchback |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 3-5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 230 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 100.4 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 350 Nm @ 1900 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | B235R More details about the engine B235R |
| 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: | Turbocharger |
| 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: | 9.3:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.2 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6 kg/Hp, 166.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 3.9 kg/Nm, 253.6 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6.5 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1380 |
| Max. weight: | 1870 |
| Max load: | 490 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1314 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 494 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 64 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4629 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1711 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1428 mm mm [12mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2605 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1466 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1456 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Fuel, speed, and comfort: How does the Saab 9-3 rank in your book?