Thinking about getting a Saab 9-3, recommendations?
 

My friend I work with mentioned getting a Saab when I told him I'm in the market for a new car. Ideally I'd like something about $5-7K. The 2000-2002 9-3 looks nice and fits that price range. Anything I should know about these cars before looking?

Yes. Do NOT spend 7K on one. Also I personally prefer the 99 9-3, but if you don't ever plan on tuning the car it doesn't matter. I personally would stay away from convertibles... If you drive a manual you'd probably be able to get an even better deal. Expect to spend around 1K for preventive maintenance when you get the car - you would want to drop the oil pan and clean it. Also make sure that all options work (heated seats, AC, heat, audio, etc). 4500 is the most I would pay for a 9-3 in the current economy. Shop around, check ebay often and don't be afraid to ask advice on a specific car. We're here to help.

I'd love to tune the car I get, the reason I'm looking at Saabs is because they come with a turbo stock and are reasonably priced. I currently own a Saturn SL1 that I've done a bunch of work to but the car only pushes about 60 whp lol.... From what I've read elsewhere is a lot of negatives, mostly from bmw fanbois though. I also heard a transmission seal leaks on some of the later models, mixing tranny fluid with oil or antifreeze. BTW are these timing chain or belt controlled? Hydraulic or mechanical lifters?

If you want to tune I would personally go with a 1999. It's a MAP instead of MAF and there are some other major differences. Don't get a V6, they suck reliability-wise. As far as issues... I know of many 9-3's that run fine without a rebuild way into 250K miles. I owned one with 180-K miles that was completely stock and still on the original clutch. The 2.0 turbo has a timing chain and hydraulic lifters, the V6 has a timing belt. Also there's open source tuning available for these cars and a somewhat full assortment of aftermarket parts.

I'm hearing a lot of bad things about the reliability of these cars, or any car that is cheap with a turbo for that matter. Also that these are a PITA to work on. Any input?

a lot easier to work on that any BMW or VW. In fact I don't think there's any job that can't be done in a parking lot with appropriate tools.