A Garage Full of Choices—But One Stood Out
For most teenagers, their first car is whatever they can scrape together enough money for—usually an aging sedan or a hand-me-down from family. But 16-year-old Nick had a vastly different experience. Thanks to his father’s extensive 28-car collection, he had the rare opportunity to test drive multiple vehicles and select his favorite. Among the options? A Maserati, a Dodge Dynasty, a Ford Crown Victoria, and a 2007 Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible.
While some might assume a 16-year-old would gravitate toward a flashy badge like Maserati, Nick shocked even his father by choosing the Saab—a brand known for its engineering excellence, turbocharged performance, and Scandinavian design. But why? Let’s break down why the 9-3 Aero Convertible emerged as the clear winner!
Why Not the Maserati? A Teen’s Thought Process
At first, the Maserati seemed like the natural frontrunner. The 1989 Maserati TC by Chrysler, a $110,000 sports car when new, had an allure that was hard to ignore. With its turbocharged engine and luxurious interior, it had the makings of a dream car for a young driver. However, once behind the wheel, Nick quickly realized its limitations:
- Aged performance – Despite the Maserati badge, the old 2.2L turbocharged four-cylinder felt sluggish by modern standards.
- Handling concerns – While it had style, it lacked the precise handling Nick was hoping for.
- Limited practicality – As a 16-year-old, he needed something reliable and easy to maintain, and the Maserati’s rare parts supply raised red flags.
After a brief but insightful test drive, the Maserati was ruled out.
Eliminating the Weak Links: Dodge Dynasty & Ford Crown Victoria
Nick’s next choices, the Dodge Dynasty and the Ford Crown Victoria, didn’t fare much better. The Dynasty had a classic, boxy American charm, but it suffered from severe misfiring and poor handling. It was clear this wasn’t a car built for spirited driving.
As for the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, while it had the V8 power and undeniable presence, it wasn’t what Nick was looking for in his first car.
That left just one contender—the Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible.
The Saab 9-3 Aero: A Surprising Yet Sensible Choice
With the competition fading, Nick climbed behind the wheel of the 2007 Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible, and almost instantly, it felt right. This turbocharged 2.8L V6 beast wasn’t just about raw speed—it delivered balanced power, comfort, and a level of uniqueness that set it apart.
Why the Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible Won Nick Over
- Turbocharged Thrill: Saab’s 2.8L turbocharged V6 delivers 250 horsepower, making it both powerful and engaging to drive.
- Superior Ride Comfort: Unlike the Crown Vic’s stiff ride or the Maserati’s age-worn suspension, the 9-3 Aero provided a smooth, responsive ride.
- Unique Yet Practical: Saab convertibles are rare, but they aren’t impractical. The fully automatic convertible top, quiet cabin, and high-quality interior added to the appeal.
- Saab Engineering Legacy: Even for a teenager unfamiliar with Saab’s history, the build quality and driving experience spoke for itself.
After just one test drive, Nick knew he had found his car.
A Car Enthusiast in the Making?
Nick’s unexpected decision to choose a Saab may be a sign of a budding car enthusiast. While many young drivers chase after mainstream sports cars, he recognized the hidden brilliance of a Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible.
His father, initially surprised, later admitted it was a great choice. Unlike the Maserati, which required constant attention, the Saab was built for both enjoyment and reliability.
This purchase also marks the beginning of Nick’s own car journey. He hinted at possibly starting a YouTube channel, which could mean future restoration projects, Saab upgrades, and car reviews. Maybe he’s on the path to becoming a full-fledged Saab enthusiast without even realizing it.
See Nick’s Decision for Yourself
Curious to see the full process of Nick choosing his first car? Watch the video where he test-drives multiple options before landing on the Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible.
📺 Watch the full video here:
The Saab 9-3: A Future Classic?
Nick’s choice of the Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible highlights the enduring appeal of Saab engineering. While Saab may no longer be in production, its legacy remains strong among enthusiasts. The turbocharged power, balanced chassis, and Scandinavian craftsmanship make the 9-3 Aero a car that still turns heads today.
For a 16-year-old stepping into the car world, there are few better ways to start. As Saab cars become rarer and more sought after, Nick’s first car could very well become a modern classic in the near future.
Young Saab Enthusiasts Make Unlikely Choices
In recent months, we’ve seen young Saab enthusiasts choosing models that many would not expect. Just like 16-year-old Nick, who picked a Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible over flashier options, 18-year-old David has made a surprising but thoughtful choice: a 1971 Saab Sonett III.
David’s Sonett III, featured in a video by Mike the Baldadonis, shows that classic Saabs aren’t only appreciated by long-time fans — even those with less exposure to Saab lore can recognize what makes these cars special. In the Sonett III, you get fiberglass bodywork, the rare Ford Taunus V4 engine, and quirky engineering features like the freewheeling clutch — all wrapped in a car that weighs just about 1,900 pounds.
For both Nick and David, the draw seems less about badge prestige and more about character, rarity, and engineering ingenuity. If you thought the Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible was an unusual first car, David’s Sonett III might take that concept even further.
Curious how David’s Sonett III compares? Read more in our full article:
1971 Saab Sonett III — Young Owner & Mike the Baldadonis
My daughter did too. There is a scary thing with teens and turbos!
Because he has taste!
He is a clever Guy👍🏼😁
Only car I’ve had where someone followed me home for a couple of miles to ask if I’d sell it
Of course he would, they are great cars. I get compliments all the time.
I hope that his dad realizes what a safe car his son drives.
I drive a 2010 9-3 convertible in Orange county, CA.
it has very strong doors, which protect me from side hits. Also, the convertible has roll bars which are invisible, but pop up in a rollover.
My mechanic of Swedish Connection, sometimes has a Saab for sale. Also Ron, the mechanic, does good work at reasonable prices. He takes care of our non-Saabs, also. 🐻
That’s was the only modern option he had the rest were old cars from the Stone Age and era of fuel crisis. A Maserati with electrical gremlins was the closest option for him. Saabs must be go to first car for anyone.
Probably because it was convertible
I personally think that the best car any first driver should own would be a Saab not only for it’s impeccable safety features that rival most cars ( as one point made earlier by a convertible owner – how many other people knew about the pop up roll bars ) but they’re practically maintenance free other than the basics “oil, water etc leaving a new young driver to focus on what they do”speed” the handling the torque the looks etc added on top of the safety makes it an obvious all rounder and probably one they may revert back to later in life as there is nothing like a Saab – there is also another benefit of pushing the option of a Saab on a younger generation it keeps the Saab in the loop allowing it to live on ( you never know one day someone maybe even Saab themselves may be tempted to make a return with the excellent unapproachable in perfection brand ) …