Saab 9-3 I 2.0 i TS (200 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.4 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 3.7 / 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)

I Overview:

Saab 9-3 (I). With 283 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1370 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.3 s). The top speed reaches 235 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.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 2000
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars 4
Expert Note:
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.

2.0 i TS (200 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A very strong performer, delivering exciting acceleration and a thrilling driving experience, especially for a front-wheel-drive car of its era.

Fuel Economy

High performance comes at the cost of significant fuel consumption, making it an expensive choice to run regularly.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast driving, spirited weekend trips, or for those who prioritize performance above all else.

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):2.0 i TS (200 Hp)
Start of production:1998
End of production:2002
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:3-5
Engine:
Power:200 Hp @ 5500 rpm.
Power per litre:100.8 Hp/l
Torque:283 Nm @ 2300 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:B204R
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:Turbocharger
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:9.2:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:14 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.3 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7.3 sec
Maximum speed:235 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.9 kg/Hp, 146 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.8 kg/Nm, 206.6 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.9 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1370
Max. weight:1770
Max load:400
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 ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/50 R16
Wheel rims size16
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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