All the reviews I have read about the 9-3 (>=model year 2003), rag on its handling. I find this strange as the episelon platform has been raved about and other cars based on it have good handling per reviews. What it is actually the case? I am not looking for M3 handling but enjoy a good combination of quite highway driving and a bit of sportiness to make those hilly country roads more enjoyable.
Thank, Dan
The reviews blamed the electronic stability control systems for making the car do strange things. They also did not like the manual transmission, but said anyone familiar with Saabs would not have a problem. Is there anyway to turn off the electronic stability control systems?
Drive the car yourself and make your own decision.
I am stick> All the reviews I have read about the 9-3 (>=model year 2003), rag on
what publications 'rag' on the handling? all that i have read say that it is 'best in class' for fwd cars period. my experience with a test drive corroborate this.
keithg
Dan wrote:
Dan wrote: :: All the reviews I have read about the 9-3 (>=model year 2003), rag on :: its handling. I find this strange as the episelon platform has been :: raved about and other cars based on it have good handling per :: reviews. What it is actually the case? I am not looking for M3 :: handling but enjoy a good combination of quite highway driving and a :: bit of sportiness to make those hilly country roads more enjoyable.
Huh!!?? I've driven the car on narrow, country-roads....the car handles GREAT! Completely follow the small turns you make with the steering-wheel.
I've German automagazine praising the handling. One even thinks it's better the 3-series BMW.....!!
Cheers!
I have found the car very well balanced. It handles great. European Car Mag. likes the new 9-3. I had my doubts when I bought mine last year. But I really like it. Yes the stabilization system does funny things with the car that most of us are not used to, but once you get used to the idea of the car correcting itself you are alright. The rear wheel ReAxs system is a trip Love the car. I have the 5 speed manual and have not had any problems.
Surprising. I am pretty sure I read the one in C&D and IIRC, it was a pretty glowing review of handling. I did not read MT nor do I ever. I really find it hard to believe that they are allowed to say anything less than stellar about any car they review, though.
MT pre-release review (typically, nothing negative)
CD review (not bad, even compliments handl> Motor Trend and Car and Driver I think.
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