The Saab 9-3 Convertible II, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2007, represents a compelling blend of Scandinavian design, turbocharged performance, and open-air driving enjoyment. Positioned within the premium compact convertible segment, the 9-3 Convertible aimed to offer a sophisticated alternative to more mainstream offerings. This iteration, equipped with the 1.9 TTiD (180 Hp) Sentronic powertrain, was primarily marketed in Europe, where Saab maintained a dedicated following. While Saab as a brand ultimately ceased production in 2011, the 9-3 Convertible remains a sought-after vehicle for enthusiasts appreciating its unique character and engineering.
Saab 9-3 Convertible II (2007-2010): A Detailed Overview
The 9-3 Convertible II, launched in 2003 and receiving a significant facelift in 2007, built upon the success of its predecessor. The facelift brought revised styling cues, enhanced safety features, and updated engine options, including the 1.9 TTiD diesel. This model year focused on refining the existing platform rather than a complete overhaul, maintaining the core appeal of the 9-3 Convertible while addressing contemporary market demands. The “Sentronic” designation refers to Saab’s automated manual transmission, offering a blend of convenience and control.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2007 Saab 9-3 Convertible II 1.9 TTiD is a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated Z19DTR. This engine utilizes twin-turbocharging and an intercooler to deliver a robust 180 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 370 Nm (272.9 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750 and 3250 rpm. The commonrail direct fuel injection system contributes to both performance and fuel efficiency. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is an impressive 94.2 hp/l. Paired with the six-speed Sentronic automatic transmission, the 9-3 Convertible achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 184 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Saab 9-3 Convertible II is a two-door, four-seat cabriolet. Its design language is characterized by clean lines, a wraparound cabin, and a distinctive front grille. The convertible top is a power-operated soft top, designed for ease of use and providing a comfortable open-air experience. The 2007 facelift brought subtle styling updates to the front and rear fascias, headlights, and taillights. Inside, the cabin focuses on driver ergonomics and Scandinavian minimalism. Key features include comfortable seating, a well-appointed dashboard, and a range of available options such as leather upholstery, premium audio systems, and climate control. Safety features, crucial for a modern convertible, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels (302mm front, 292mm rear). The vehicle’s kerb weight ranges from 1650 to 1835 kg (3637.63 to 4045.48 lbs), depending on equipment levels.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Saab |
| Model | 9-3 |
| Generation | 9-3 Convertible II (facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 TTiD (180 Hp) Sentronic |
| Start of production | September, 2007 |
| End of production | December, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 184 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 109.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 224.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1750-3250 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z19DTR |
| Engine displacement | 1910 cm3 (116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1650-1835 kg (3637.63 – 4045.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2040-2140 kg (4497.43 – 4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 305-390 kg (672.41 – 859.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 258 l (9.11 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 352 l (12.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4647 mm (182.95 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2038 mm (80.24 in.) |
| Height | 1437 mm (56.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Rear track | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Front overhang | 981 mm (38.62 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 991 mm (39.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission Sentronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 302 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 292 mm |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 235/45 R17; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
