The Context: Two Left-Field Luxury Choices for the Brave
In the saturated world of German-dominated executive sedans, the Saab 9-5 New Generation and Honda Legend emerge as unconventional alternatives. Both are underappreciated, both packed with advanced technology, and both aim to lure drivers seeking exclusivity without sacrificing sophistication. In a recent video comparison published by Autovisie Magazine, the two cars go head-to-head not just on paper, but on camera—offering a rare look at two completely different philosophies of premium motoring.
And yes, the Saab 9-5 NG shows, once again, why it continues to turn heads and capture hearts even years after production ceased.
Styling: Presence vs Discretion
The Honda Legend, particularly in its 2010 facelift version, looks anonymous by design. Honda intentionally gave it clean, understated lines—some might call it elegant, others will simply call it forgettable. At nearly five meters in length, it has the proportions of a proper executive car, but the aesthetic drama simply isn’t there.
The Saab 9-5 NG, on the other hand, is a statement on wheels. With its blacked-out glasshouse, wide stance, and signature rear light bar, it’s unmistakably a Saab—even though it rides on GM’s Epsilon II platform. It’s not shouty, but it doesn’t blend into the crowd either. This is a car that demands a second look.
“It looks minimalistic, Scandinavian,” one of the video’s hosts notes. “The rear is almost mysterious, almost coupé-like. It has class.”
Verdict: The Saab brings presence and visual identity. The Honda blends in.
Interior Quality and Ambience
Let’s not sugarcoat it: the 9-5 NG’s cabin isn’t perfect. Especially in the lower trim levels, some plastics feel GM-grade, not Saab-grade. There’s a noticeable drop in material quality compared to its Scandinavian predecessors. But it still retains key Saab elements: the driver-centric layout, jet-inspired HUD, and the beloved Night Panel feature.
The Legend arguably wins on material richness. With real wood trim, soft-touch plastics, and an elegant gauge cluster, it exudes a level of polish that many would find more premium. However, it also feels a bit dated and over-insulated—almost too serene to feel engaged.
Verdict: Honda wins on tactile quality. Saab wins on ergonomic philosophy and heritage.
Powertrains and Driving Feel
The Saab tested by Autovisie features the 2.0 Turbo with 220hp, considered the most balanced engine in the NG lineup. Smooth, torquey, and surprisingly economical, it delivers enough power to move the nearly 1,600 kg car without drama. The 2.8 V6 Turbo with 300hp is more exciting but less reliable.
The Honda boasts a 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6 with 295hp and VTEC variable valve timing. Paired to a 5-speed automatic and Super Handling AWD (SH-AWD), it’s more complex and more unique on paper. But real-world performance is dulled by its weight and sluggish gearbox.
On the road, the Saab feels lighter, more alert, and yes—more engaging. The Legend is quiet, planted, but numb.
Verdict: Honda offers specs. Saab offers response and feel.
Space and Comfort: Scandinavian Limousine
The 9-5 NG stretches over 5.01 meters, with a wheelbase of 2.84 meters. Rear legroom is excellent. Headroom could be better, but it gives you the proper executive car experience—especially in the back.
The Honda, despite similar dimensions, fails to translate that size into usable interior space. Rear headroom is cramped, and the trunk—at 452 liters—is oddly shaped and less practical than expected.
Verdict: Saab uses its dimensions better, especially for rear passengers.
Technical Reliability and Ownership Realities
Honda’s Legend has bulletproof mechanicals. Few were sold, but those that were tend to be in excellent condition. The SH-AWD system, while complex, hasn’t shown common failure patterns. Just beware of Takata airbags and the lack of variety: only one drivetrain, no diesels, no hybrid, no wagon.
The Saab? It’s a mixed bag. The 2.0 Turbo is solid, but the V6 and some diesel variants have known issues—timing chain stretch, oil and coolant consumption, EGR valve and DPF problems. Parts availability is getting better thanks to Saab specialists and enthusiast communities, but rare components like HUD units can still be a hunt.
Verdict: Honda wins on simplicity and reliability. Saab wins on support ecosystem and parts availability—thanks to the community.
Residual Value and Market Perception
When new, both cars struggled in the marketplace—each for different reasons. Saab was fighting for survival; Honda was fighting indifference. Fast-forward to today, and the 9-5 NG has become a collector’s favorite, especially the well-kept petrol versions.
Autovisie notes that good examples now fetch up to €20,000, while diesels start around €5,000. The Legend? Even fewer are on the road. Just two listed in the Netherlands at the time of filming.
But scarcity doesn’t always equal desirability. The Saab holds emotional value, brand cachet, and collector momentum.
Verdict: Saab’s rest-value trajectory is now upward. Honda remains niche but flat.
On the Road: Which One Moves You?
It’s a telling moment in the video when both presenters—initially split—end up siding with the Saab. Despite the Legend’s credentials and comfort, it lacks soul. The 9-5 NG, while not perfect, has an identity.
“I’d take the Saab,” says one host. “Maybe in a darker color, but it’s the one I’d bring home.”
The other agrees: “The Legend is solid, the Saab is special.”
Verdict: For the individualist driver, the Saab 9-5 NG is still the emotional, rational, and aesthetic choice.
Saab Wins the Duel with Dignity!
This wasn’t a conventional comparison, and these aren’t conventional cars. But that’s exactly the point. If you’re in the market for a youngtimer with style, character, and genuine driver appeal, skip the predictable Germans and take a closer look at the Saab 9-5 NG.
The Honda Legend is a technological achievement in a muted package. The Saab? It’s a flawed masterpiece that wears its individuality like a badge of honor. And in a world of algorithms and anonymity, that counts for something.
Watch the Full Video
Watch the full comparison on Autovisie’s official YouTube channel :
and read the full article at Autovisie.nl.
Looking Beyond the Comparison: Saab on the Dutch Market
After seeing how the Saab 9-5 NG outshined the Honda Legend in Autovisie’s Occasion Battle, you may wonder what today’s Dutch market has to offer. From €7,000 diesels to €21,000 V6 turbos, the 9-5 NG still commands respect.
