In 1999 a Saab 9-3 2.0T SE Convertible cost more than £30,000. In February this year it was replaced by a new 9-3 model with the result that you can now pick up the 1999 car for around £11,000. At that price it must be one of the best-value prestige convertibles you can buy second-hand.

Launched in March 1998, the original Saab 9-3 shares more than a passing resemblance to the previous Saab 900 model and under the skin shares its underpinnings with the Vauxhall Vectra. But don’t let that put you off — its distinctive front grille, sweeping lines and beautifully fitted electric soft top make it look at home in all the best places.

Sit inside a 9-3 and its distinctive looks continue with the dashboard curving towards the driver, making it feel more aircraft than automobile. The quality of the fit and finish is good but check that everything works as electrical repairs can be expensive.

Practicality is not usually a word associated with a cabriolet but the Saab 9-3 comes pretty close. The rear seats are large enough not to be just for the under-tens and the boot space is reasonable, if you pack carefully.

High-speed cruising with the roof down is no chore — the car’s high waistline and rear wind deflector make it cosy even on a cold day.

Equipment levels are relatively good so expect a CD player, air-conditioning and electrically operated roof as standard. Only a few cars were ever sold without leather seats and alloys wheels. Higher specification models come with wood dashboards and the top spec Viggen models have 17in alloys and a somewhat dubious rear spoiler.

Saab has long been committed to the idea of gaining maximum power through the turbocharging of its four-cylinder engines so you won’t find anything larger than a 2.3 litre under the bonnet of a 9-3 cabriolet. The most powerful 2.3 turbo is a real rocket, 0-60mph in 6.5sec and a top speed of 155mph from its 225bhp. But the 9-3’s ageing chassis struggles to handle the power and to find grip — the term “torque steer” (meaning the steering wheel fights against you when accelerating hard) could have been invented to describe this car.

The smaller 2 litre turbo units are more popular and come in three power levels: 205bhp, 185bhp and 154bhp. The mid-range unit is the most popular. It’s quick enough to be fun but sensible enough to return close to 30mpg.

Buyers can choose between a five-speed manual and four-speed automatic gearbox. The auto is fine but under hard acceleration the changes can be lumpy and both performance and economy are blunted. The five-speed manual is better suited to the turbocharged engine’s torque; it’s nicer to drive and £500 cheaper than its automatic equivalent on the used-car market.

Most 9-3 cabriolets will have been cherished when new so be fussy. The soft top should be tight fitting, as any signs of excessive wind noise or water leaks suggest possible accident damage. A full service history with original invoices is vital as quality interiors mean that a high-mileage car that has been “clocked” is unlikely to be betrayed by signs of wear from the seats or steering wheel.

VITAL STATISTICS Model: Saab 9-3 2.0T Convertible
Engine: Four-cylinder, 1985cc
Power: 185bhp
Transmission: Five-speed manual
Fuel: 29.7mpg (combined)
Acceleration: 0 to 60mph: 7.6sec
Top speed: 143mph

Visibility: Thick canvas pillars and small rear screen limit rear vision

Dashboard: Wood trim makes the car feel special

Engine: 2 litre turbo engines produce between 154bhp and 205bhp depending on model

Safety: Four-star performer in Euro NCAP tests

Steering: Column adjustable for reach but not height

Upholstery: Most have leather but a few have velour upholstery

Tyres: Front tyres prone to wear due to combination of turbo engines and front-wheel drive

Wheels: Broad range of wheels, most are alloy and range between 15in and 17i

Wind deflector: Pops up behind front seats to reduce draughts Ð check the car has one

Insurance: Saab 9-3 insurance rates are lower than most competitors, group 15 for the 185bhp 2.0T SE

Avoid: The sluggish non-turbo 2 litre with only 130bhp produced in 1998/99

Transmission: Five-speed manual is quicker than four-speed auto and costs £500 less

Timing chain: Can cause problems if the car is not serviced properly


THE ONE TO BUY:

Saab 9-3 T SE convertible, 2000 W-reg with 40,000 miles. Pay £13,450 at a dealer with a 12-month warranty, or £12,250 privately

OR FOR SIMILAR MONEY...

1998 R-reg BMW 328i Convertible
1999 T-reg Audi 2.8 Convertible
1996 N-reg Mercedes-Benz E320 Conv
2001 51-reg VW Golf Convertible 2.0
1999 V-reg Volvo C70 Convertible 2.3 T5

VALUES: Mitsubishi Space Star 1.8 GDI Elegance



Source: estimates based on confidential CAP black book prices. "Trade" is what a dealer would pay to buy your car; "retail" is what you would pay a dealer