The Saab 9-3 Convertible II 2.0t Automatic, produced between 2002 and 2007, represents a refined iteration of Saab’s mid-size convertible offering. Positioned within the premium compact segment, it aimed to provide an alternative to established European rivals like the BMW 3 Series Convertible and Audi A4 Cabriolet. This generation built upon the success of the original 9-3 Convertible, offering enhanced styling, improved refinement, and a focus on driver enjoyment. While Saab as a brand ultimately faced challenges, the 9-3 Convertible II remains a distinctive vehicle, appreciated for its Scandinavian design and unique character.
Saab 9-3 Convertible II: A Detailed Overview
The 9-3 Convertible II was a crucial model for Saab, representing a continued commitment to open-top motoring. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where convertibles enjoyed significant popularity. While not officially sold in the United States during this generation, the 9-3 range, including the sedan and wagon variants, had a previous presence in the American market. The Convertible II sought to blend Saab’s reputation for safety and innovation with the thrill of open-air driving. The 2.0t variant, equipped with a turbocharged engine and automatic transmission, was a popular choice, offering a balance of performance and convenience.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Saab 9-3 Convertible II 2.0t is a 1.998-liter (121.93 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder engine, designated the B207L. This engine is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler, allowing it to produce 175 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 265 Nm (195.45 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2500 rpm. This configuration provides a respectable power-to-weight ratio of 9 kg/Hp. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.5 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg) on a combined cycle, with 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) in urban conditions and 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. The engine meets Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Saab 9-3 Convertible II is a two-door, four-seater cabriolet. Its design is characterized by clean lines and a distinctive Saab aesthetic, including the signature three-door hatchback styling carried over from the sedan and wagon models. The convertible top is a fully automatic, multi-layered fabric roof designed for all-weather use. Inside, the cabin focuses on functionality and comfort, with supportive seats and a driver-centric layout. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The trunk offers 235 liters (8.3 cu. ft.) of space with the roof up, expanding to 352 liters (12.43 cu. ft.) when lowered. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4635 mm (182.48 in.), width 1762 mm (69.37 in.), and height 1434 mm (56.46 in.), with a wheelbase of 2675 mm (105.31 in.). Kerb weight is 1580 kg (3483.3 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Saab |
| Model | 9-3 |
| Generation | 9-3 Convertible II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 t (175 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 175 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 2500 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B207L |
| 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 capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1580 kg (3483.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 390 kg (859.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 235 l (8.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 352 l (12.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4635 mm (182.48 in.) |
| Width | 1762 mm (69.37 in.) |
| Height | 1434 mm (56.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Rear track | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Saab 9-3 Convertible II 2.0t Automatic, while no longer in production, remains a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish and distinctive convertible with a unique Scandinavian flair. Its blend of performance, comfort, and safety features continues to appeal to enthusiasts and collectors alike.
