The Saab 9-3 Convertible II, specifically the facelifted version introduced in September 2007, represents a refined iteration of Saab’s mid-size open-top offering. Positioned within the premium compact convertible segment, the 9-3 Convertible aimed to blend Scandinavian design with capable performance and a focus on driver enjoyment. This generation, produced through December 2010, offered a compelling alternative to established rivals like the BMW 3 Series Convertible and Audi A4 Cabriolet, particularly appealing to those seeking a more individualistic and understated luxury experience. The 2.0T variant, powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 210 horsepower, was a popular choice, balancing performance with reasonable fuel economy.
Saab 9-3 Convertible II (2007-2010) 2.0T: An Overview
The 9-3 Convertible II facelift brought subtle but significant updates to the original model, enhancing both its aesthetics and technological features. These changes included revised front and rear styling, interior refinements, and improvements to the engine range. The 2.0T model, equipped with Saab’s well-regarded turbocharged engine, offered a spirited driving experience, characterized by strong mid-range torque and responsive handling. While Saab as a brand ultimately faced financial difficulties, the 9-3 Convertible II remains a fondly remembered vehicle, appreciated for its unique character and engineering.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 9-3 Convertible II 2.0T lies Saab’s B207R 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This powerplant utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to deliver a potent 210 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2500 and 4000 rpm. This configuration provides a broad torque curve, resulting in strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 9.5:1 compression ratio contributes to efficient combustion. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 225 km/h (139.81 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 7.9 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.5 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Saab 9-3 Convertible II is a two-door, four-seat cabriolet. Its design embodies Saab’s distinctive Scandinavian aesthetic, characterized by clean lines and a focus on functionality. The convertible top is a power-operated soft top, designed for ease of use and providing a comfortable, weather-sealed cabin. Inside, the 9-3 Convertible offers a driver-focused cockpit with comfortable seating and a well-appointed interior. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4647 mm (182.95 in) in length, 1780 mm (70.08 in) in width, and 1437 mm (56.57 in) in height. The wheelbase measures 2675 mm (105.31 in). Trunk space ranges from 258 liters (9.11 cu. ft.) to 352 liters (12.43 cu. ft.) depending on the top’s position. The car’s kerb weight ranges from 1650 to 1835 kg (3637.63 to 4045.48 lbs.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Saab |
| Model | 9-3 |
| Generation | 9-3 Convertible II (facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0T (210 Hp) |
| 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) | 12 l/100 km (19.6 US mpg, 23.5 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 213 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 210 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2500-4000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B207R |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 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 (Back) track | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Front overhang | 981 mm (38.62 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 991 mm (39.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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, 278 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| 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 |



