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Saab 9-3 I 2.0i (130 Hp) Automatic
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 177 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1295 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 13 s). The top speed reaches 190 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.
2.0i (130 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The weakest performer in the lineup, with sluggish acceleration further hampered by the automatic gearbox, making overtakes challenging.
Fuel Economy
While naturally aspirated, the automatic transmission can negate some of the potential fuel savings, leading to mediocre economy.
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): | 2.0i (130 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | 1998 |
| End of production: | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Hatchback |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 3-5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 130 Hp @ 6100 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 65.5 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 177 Nm @ 4300 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | B204i |
| Engine displacement: | 1985 |
| 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: | 78 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.1:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 15.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.9 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 13 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 190 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 10 kg/Hp, 100.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.7 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 12.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1295 |
| Max. weight: | 1860 |
| Max load: | 565 |
| 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 | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
What’s the best feature of the Saab 9-3? Tell us in the comments!