Saab 9-3 Cabriolet I 2.3 T (230 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 350 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1470 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 convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

2.3 T (230 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

The most powerful engine, delivering impressive acceleration (6.8 sec 0-100km/h) and strong performance, making it the enthusiast's choice for maximum thrills.

Fuel Economy

Higher fuel consumption compared to other trims, especially under spirited driving, but acceptable for its class-leading performance.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast 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:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Cabriolet I: 1998 - 2000).

General:
Brand:Saab
Model:9-3
Generation:Cabriolet I
Modification (Engine):2.3 T (230 Hp)
Start of production:2000
End of production:2001
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Cabriolet
Seats:4
Doors:2
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:6.4 kg/Hp, 156.5 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.2 kg/Nm, 238.1 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.5 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1470
Max. weight:1850
Max load:380
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:378 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:295 l
Fuel tank capacity:64 l
Size:
Length:4629 mm mm [Same length.]
Width:1711 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1423 mm mm [17mm less]
Wheelbase:2605 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
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 [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size215/45 R17
Wheel rims size17
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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