Saab 9-5 NG vs. Volvo S80 — Why This 2011 Test Still Matters
When Auto Zeitung staged a head-to-head between the Saab 9-5 NG and Volvo S80 in March 2011, the stakes were high. Saab had just launched its striking, all-new flagship, a car meant to pull the brand firmly into the premium arena. Volvo’s S80, already well-established, stood as Sweden’s ambassador in the executive sedan market.
Fast-forward to today, and the duel takes on a new significance — not as a guide for new-car shoppers, but as a reference point for used-car buyers deciding between two distinctly Scandinavian interpretations of luxury and performance.
This wasn’t simply a numbers game. The test explored design philosophy, driving dynamics, comfort, and ownership costs — the kind of details that still define how these cars age and perform on the second-hand market.
Body and Interior: Saab’s Size vs. Volvo’s Polish
Auto Zeitung’s testers didn’t need calipers to spot the Saab’s imposing presence. At just over five meters in length, the 9-5 NG stood a full 15 cm longer than the S80 — edging closer to a BMW 7 Series in footprint. This translated into a more commanding road presence and slightly larger luggage capacity (33 liters more) with a higher payload allowance (485 kg vs. Volvo’s 400 kg).
Inside, the Saab’s steeper front and side glass created a lighter, airier cabin feel, with marginally more headroom in front. Rear passengers, however, found similar space in both. The Volvo countered with meticulous fit-and-finish, tighter panel gaps, and more premium-feeling materials.
From a safety standpoint, both offered comprehensive protection. Volvo’s reputation for safety tech held, offering lane-departure warnings, a driver attention monitor, and optional pedestrian detection with auto-brake. Saab’s edge came from optional rear side airbags and the brand’s already renowned crash-protection engineering.
Used-Buyer Takeaway:
If interior craftsmanship and trim longevity matter most, the S80 may feel better preserved today. If you want more visual drama and cargo practicality, the 9-5 NG still has presence that turns heads.
Ride Comfort: Volvo’s Quiet Advantage
Comfort is often what separates a good used luxury sedan from a tiring one, and in 2011 the Volvo S80 had the edge. Its seats delivered long-distance comfort, though Saab’s sports seats — with extendable thigh support and a taller, more supportive backrest — offered better lateral hold.
Noise insulation proved decisive. While both cars kept engine sound muted, the Volvo isolated wind, tire, and suspension noise far more effectively. On rough asphalt, the Saab transmitted more road texture into the cabin.
Adaptive suspension systems were fitted to both, but Volvo’s Four-C chassis in comfort mode proved more composed on patchy roads. Saab’s DriveSense system felt firmer, reacting more sharply to bumps.
Used-Buyer Takeaway:
In the used market, suspension condition varies widely. If you value low cabin noise and relaxed long-haul travel, a well-maintained S80 remains hard to beat. Saab’s setup appeals more if you like a slightly sportier, tauter feel.
Engines and Gearboxes: Saab’s Power vs. Volvo’s Smoothness
Both cars came with 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engines, a format Saab pioneered decades before “downsizing” became industry jargon.
The Saab 9-5 NG offered 17 horsepower more than the S80, delivering a noticeable edge in acceleration above 60 km/h. In real terms, the Saab pulled away by two seconds by 160 km/h. Yet, Volvo’s engine-gearbox harmony impressed testers — it felt more responsive between 60–100 km/h, thanks to better torque delivery and a slicker 6-speed manual.
Fuel consumption was nearly identical: 10.0 L/100 km for Saab vs. 9.9 for Volvo — acceptable for 220 hp-class sedans of that era.
Used-Buyer Takeaway:
Saab’s engine feels stronger at high speed, making it a better choice for autobahn or motorway use. Volvo’s tuning suits urban and mixed driving, with smoother low-speed response and lighter gear action.
Handling and Dynamics: Two Approaches to Stability
On paper, Saab’s more eager turn-in suggested a handling win. In practice, the light steering required frequent corrections in fast corners, and quick left-right transitions could trigger mild oversteer before the ESP reined it in.
The Volvo S80, though less immediate in steering response, felt more predictable and balanced, with better traction exiting tight bends. Power delivery was also easier to meter without upsetting the chassis.
Braking performance was close, though the Volvo edged ahead in cold-stop distances.
Used-Buyer Takeaway:
For drivers seeking sportier steering and a slightly livelier chassis, the Saab 9-5 NG offers more involvement. For those preferring composure and predictability, the S80 remains the steadier hand.
Ownership Costs: Saab’s Premium, Volvo’s Value
Here’s where the 2011 verdict still echoes in the used market. The Saab 9-5 NG was €2,500 more expensive new, and even today, parts availability and insurance group ratings can make running costs higher.
Auto Zeitung noted Saab charged extra for basics like alloy wheels, while Volvo’s base spec was more generous. Depreciation was another factor — something Saab suffered from after its 2011 production halt.
Used-Buyer Takeaway:
The Saab 9-5 NG is rarer, often pricier to maintain, but holds unique appeal for enthusiasts. The Volvo S80 is easier to source parts for, with broader service network coverage — especially important outside Saab specialist circles.
The 2011 Verdict — and What It Means Today
Auto Zeitung’s points tally put the Volvo S80 narrowly ahead (3020 to Saab’s 2941). The reasons? Better overall refinement, balanced handling, and lower running costs.
But time changes the lens. In 2025, Saab’s 9-5 NG stands as a rare last chapter in the brand’s history, with design flair and a sense of occasion the S80 can’t quite match. The Volvo’s virtues — understated quality, comfort, and stability — have aged gracefully, but it’s the Saab that sparks emotional connection.
Our Take for Used Buyers:
- Choose the Saab 9-5 NG if you want rarity, design drama, and high-speed confidence — and you’re willing to maintain it through specialists.
- Choose the Volvo S80 if you value quiet refinement, ease of ownership, and predictable handling — with a network of service options still in place.
In the end, this wasn’t just a battle of specifications — it was a clash of identities. Saab’s final flagship remains a symbol of ambition and individuality, while Volvo’s S80 represents longevity through measured evolution.
And yes – we know who the “official” winner was on paper. But here at SaabPlanet, our heart will always side with the 9-5 NG. Its bold design, turbocharged character, and undeniable Saab spirit outweigh any spreadsheet advantage the Volvo held. For us, the Saab wins – every single time :)
It is down to the battle of cupholders. I believe they have similar designs — one pulls a tab on the console or the dash, and voila! What about your passengers, would they require an extra set of hands?