FAQs and Specs
The 2006 Saab 9-3 Convertible competes with the Audi A4 Cabriolet, BMW 325Ci Convertible, Chrysler Sebring, Mini Cooper Convertible, Pontiac G6 Convertible, Toyota Solara, Volkswagen Eos, and Volvo C70.
What does the 2006 Saab 9-3’s new V6 engine offer that the previous turbo four didn’t?
Not only does the new V6 offer more horsepower and torque, but more important is its silky smooth delivery. This new engine does a remarkable job of powering the Saab 9-3, pulling hard throughout the rev range. Less downshifting is required because of the amount of torque available at the low end, with 90 percent of maximum twist available at just 1,500 rpm. Upshifts will also be reduced, though subconsciously because the engine is so smooth at higher revs that you’ll forget to use 5th and 6th gears. What designates the difference between the 2006 Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible 20 Years Edition and the standard model?
The biggest difference is the unique blue paint and dual five-spoke wheels. The interior also adds matching blue leather inserts and an etched designation is located on the rear quarter window. Convertibles can be noisy with the top up. How does the 2006 Saab 9-3 stand up in this test?
Saab uses a three-layer top that does a remarkable job of reducing wind noise. There is still some noise but nothing that will interfere with conversation at 70 mph. The most impressive part of the top is the way it is finished on the inside. No bare bars and canvas seams here, and the top lowers and raises in just 20 seconds. SPECIFICATIONS:
Test Vehicle: 2006 Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible 20 Years Edition
Price of Test Vehicle: $44,615 (including the $720 destination charge)
Engine Size and Type: 2.8-liter turbocharged V6
Engine Horsepower: 250 at 5,500 rpm
Engine Torque: 258 at 2,000 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual; six-speed automatic
Curb Weight. Lbs.: 3,480-3,700
EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway): 21/29 mpg
Length: 182.4 inches
Width: 69.3 inches
Wheelbase: 105.3 inches
Height: 56.4 inches
Leg room (front/rear): 41.4/32.3 inches
Head room (front/rear): 38.1/37 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: Four
Max. Cargo Volume: 12.4 cu.-ft.
Competitors: Audi A4 Cabriolet, BMW 325Ci Convertible, Chrysler Sebring, Mini Cooper Convertible, Pontiac G6 Convertible, Toyota Solara, Volkswagen Eos, Volvo C70 Photos courtesy of Saab Cars USA
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About Ron Perry
Before joining the Autobytel family in June of 2005, Ron Perry spent twenty years as a freelance photographer in the automotive community, shooting cars for automakers and magazines, including Road & Track. Before striking out on his own with camera in hand, Ron worked at a daily newspaper as a staff photographer shooting news stories – at least until an editor with a passion for cars fueled his automotive interests. Today, Ron focuses on high-performance sports cars of the past and the designs of the future. Not surprisingly, then, Ron owns a 1990 Porsche 928S4, but someday hopes to add a Ferrari Testarossa, a Lotus Esprit, and Volvo P1800 to his stable. Having to give up his 2000 Jaguar XJR in favor of a 2004 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab was, “a necessity of the craft,” he says.
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