SAAB 9-3 Arc

"Saabies"
Nothing would drive a car salesman batty like having to wait on a "Saabie".
What, you ask, is a "Saabie"?
"Saabies" are curious creatures of past years, now being assimilated into the mainstream. Unique among the car buying public, they preferred the quirky engineering from Saab of Sweden rather than a "normal" automobile of American iron. They had a pesky trait of wanting to "know" information even before the information age, and they preferred the blending of luxury, safety and performance in efficient front wheel drive cars. Pipe smoking geeks, represented by professors, engineers and medical doctors understood the Swede's passion for safety long before our government mandated occupant protection. As dedicated Saab owners they drove car salesmen nuts with their questions and demands.

But now that "geeks" are popular, information is readily available, sales people are certified in their knowledge, front wheel drive cars are dominant and General Motors owns Saab, the true "Saabie" is loosing the distinction of being different.

Nobody understands the needs of information absorbing "Saabies" like George's Imports, Ltd. on State Line Road in Kansas City Missouri. Not only do they understand the classic Saabs of years gone by but they set me up in the technologically advanced 2004 Saab 9-3 Arc.

Saab continues to be unique with their original values still intact but as General Motors shares more of it's engineering across lines the difference is fading. The 2004 Saab 9-3 appeals to more than just the die-hard Saab owner. Now you don't even have to own a pocket protector to drive a Saab. While professor, engineers and high IQ people will still be excited about the 9-3, this Saab is, well, "a no-brainier" for many.

It's a good example of General Motors sharing platforms and engineering across lines. The Epsilon platform shared by the new Chevrolet Malibu and our featured 2004 Saab 9-3 will eventually provide the platform of several models across their worldwide holdings.

While Saab has become domesticated, some things remain like the ignition switch on the floor between the seats. The basic values of safety, superior engineering, and efficient front wheel drive high performance engines still satisfy the die hard Saab enthusiast.

The 2004 Saab 9-3 Arc is a perfect combination of these basic values. Of course the 9-3 has a long list of safety features as standard equipment. In addition to the driver and passenger front air bags, side torso and curtain air bags provide ultimate protection in a crash. But you really don't want to crash so part of a safe car is to help you avoid an accident. Anti lock brakes, mechanical brake assist and corning brake control, help keep you safe and out of danger.

Safety is a Swedish tradition but the Saab is more than just safe, it's fun as well. 210 HP from the 2.0 liter, 4 cylinder, 16 valve DOHC engine is a blast to drive with the standard turbocharger. My five-speed automatic had the ability to shift manually but I let the computer do the work. All 2004 Saab 9-3 Sedans have the 4-link suspension with "ReAxs" that adapts to hug the road in corning.

Of course with gas prices where they are today, I find the 29 MPG on the highway and 20MPG city EPA rating pleasurable, if not even fun.

The 2004 Saab 9-3 Arc is a beautiful vehicle complete with all of the luxury appointments expected from vehicles of this class. But to the delight of a true "Saabie" the challenge will be to explore all of the hidden features such as the infotainment center combining information with entertainment.

So before you settle for the obvious luxury sports sedan, take a look at what Saab owners have been so passionate about for all of these years. Saab may be the boutique line for General Motors but you might find a perfect fit outside the mainstream.

2004 Saab 9-3 Arc

Base MSRP $30,185
Price as tested $36,004

Providing Dealer:
George's Imports
8011 State Line Road
Kansas City, MO 64114
816-333-6582

www.kcsaab.com

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