We've owned several Volvos over the last 30 years, and recently purchased a 2003 Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan for our son, the first (and probably last) Saab we've ever owned. Sometimes I have trouble believing the Saab and the Volvo are from the same country. The Saab is a great driving machine with nice, tight, responsive handling. But it is definitely not a mechanic-friendly car. Some things about the car are very much like Volvo, but some things are wierd beyond belief.

Example: The turn signal switch went haywire. The dealer told me I couldn't purchase just the switch - that I had to purchase the entire electronic module that included both LH and RH stalks, and the alarm system control module - cost=$650. If the dealer installed it, add a couple hours labor. If I installed it, the car wouldn't start because the new alarm controller would disable the vehicle until the dealer reprogrammed it with their proprietary electronic tool. Fortunately I was able to dissect the switch and repair it.

If you buy a Saab , make sure you have a spare key. As long as you have at least one key, they can create another for about $150. But if you loose your last key you will have to purchase some sort of on-board computer for about $1500. The dealer told me he sees it happen quite often.

If you have lots of time to repair your car, and you kind of like working on it, a Saab may be a good choice. But all-in-all, it ain't a Volvo.