I actually have test driven the Saab 9-3 linear() and Aero( )
I drove them for about 20-30 minutes each. Complete with Yappy salesperson. I liked the Aero a lot...however even with my discount, I can still only get the car for 29k. So I would opt for the Arc if anything for about 26,500-27000.
I had a TSX for an entire DAY. I liked the car---didnt love it with Auto and no navigation. I think the interior is first rate, the Navigation system is awesome.(if you dont have navigation, you will never EVER understand the true value of it...beyond the coolness factor)
There is not one option in the Saab that is as useful or important to me as the navigation. The stock radio in the TSX destroys the Saabs radio. (I tested both of these extensively).
What I need to do is retest drive the TSX manual and see if it thrills me. I also could wait 6 months and probably get a TL with nav for like 29k.
So to sum up
Interior/Luxuries-
TSX--10.0
Saab-7.0
Mazda-6.0

Outside appearance...
Saab-9.0
TSX-8.0
Mazda6-7.5

Drive/Fun factor
Saab-9.5
Mazda6-7.5
TSX-(auto)--6.0
TSX6 speed(TBD)

Resale/Reliability(based on Mfr. past history)
TSX-9.5
Saab--6.0
Mazda--not sure...
I intend to redrive the TSX6 and Mazda6 heavily.
One car I left out was the Maxima...I can get that for a similar price. ---not sure about that exterior..funky

 

Does it bother anyone that the street value of the 9-3 is $3000 under invoice? Seems kinda sketchy to me.

 

I think I'm the only one who got that.

I actually liked the 9-3 interior more than I thought I would, too. It's a nice car. SilverJ, you really can't go wrong unless you let us (or the Saab guys) influence you to make a decision that you wouldn't have made on your own.

 

Saab pricing has borne no relation to either the sticker price or the invoice for years. It's even more annoying that they give far deeper discounts to certain classes of customers, like GM employees and even GM-supplier employees. (Which is just about anybody - except me, of course!)

 

Let's not forget the extra $1000 discount for former GM owners.

 

Very interesting. The day I decided on TSX I was coming
directly from testing both the A4 and 9-3.
The A-4 adn 9-3 were at the same dealer which was
convenient. I had previously driven 325 many times.
I drove the TSX last because I just saw a TSX commercial
and gave it a chance..
I didn't have anyp reconceived notions about Acura.

I go to the dealers. Tell them that I am just testing to make
a decision. Drive all cars back to back within 1-2 hours without
alot of time and talk. It was TSX immediately for me, I was hooked and feel good about it to this day because is was an objective decision and easy choice.

Tim

 

How ironic.

 

?

 

That makes two of us, Kewl. I'm glad you're not a TSX owner also!!!

 

Judging by all the play this conversaion got it seems many of you consider the 9-3 a worthy adversary to the TSX---I know I do...
time for some more test drives

 

If you don't mind the thought of a Saab, then definitely check it out. But, then, you owe it to yourself to visit this site: www.allnews40.com as well since you're looking at european cars with turbo instead of a japanese na engine.

 

Nice car. Overpriced.