If you liked, and worked on, your 9000 you will have similar feelings toward the 9-5. Same basic car with different sheet metal.

I personally love them, but I cannot get past the rugged durability of my red blocks. The Saab will drive "better" than all the cars you list depending on which trim you get and how comfortable you are with a firm but compliant ride (think E46 BMW).

Stick with the 2.3T models unless you absolutely want the insane acceleration. The 9-5 wagons are pretty darned compelling. I would seek a Saab specialist to pre-purchase inspect any car but that is because I have only worked on few 900's and 9000's.

Cup holders still suck in all but the newest cars though they are fun to watch deploying from the center console.

Saab also has a fanatical following though the 9-3/9-5 crowd is even less active than the FWD/AWD group here.