The 2001 Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible is an enticing option for car enthusiasts looking for a unique blend of performance and quirkiness. This high-performance version of the early 2000s Saab 9-3 offers a fun driving experience and a distinct Swedish charm.
Currently listed on Cars & Bids, this rare model is generating significant interest with its no reserve price auction, making it an attractive opportunity for collectors and fans of Saab. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes this car special, along with insights from Doug DeMuro and detailed auction information.
Doug DeMuro’s Take on the Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible
Doug DeMuro, known for his detailed and engaging car reviews on his YouTube channel, has highlighted the Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible as an interesting and fun-to-drive alternative to mainstream European sports cars. According to Doug, this model features a turbocharged engine, quirky design elements, and a reputation for being enjoyable on the road.
DeMuro emphasizes that this specific Viggen, with its 5-speed manual transmission and Southern California ownership, stands out due to its well-preserved condition and clean, accident-free Carfax report. Watch Doug’s video:
The Highlights of This Auction
A Unique High-Performance Saab
The 2001 Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible is finished in Steel Grey with a black soft top and black interior. This model is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, a feature that adds to its driving enjoyment. The Carfax history report shows no accidents or mileage discrepancies and confirms that the car has been registered in California from new.
Factory Equipment and Modifications
This Viggen comes with a range of factory features, including 17-inch wheels, fog lights, a power-operated soft top, leather upholstery, heated and power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, and a CD player. The only reported modification is a Sony head unit, which enhances the audio experience without compromising the car’s originality.
The Story Behind the Saab 9-3 Viggen
Introduction and Naming
Saab introduced the first-generation 9-3 for the 1999 model year as a replacement for the 900 series. The Viggen model, named after the Saab 37 Viggen aircraft, was the high-performance version, produced between 1999 and 2002. Only 4,600 Viggen models were built across all body styles, making it a rare find today. The Viggen name was dropped in favor of the “Aero” designation when the second-generation 9-3 was introduced in 2003.
Performance Specifications
Powering the 9-3 Viggen is a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, delivering 230 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission. This setup provides a spirited driving experience, with the turbocharged engine offering a unique blend of power and performance.
Quirks and Features: Inside and Out
Exterior Design
The Saab 9-3 Viggen features several design elements that distinguish it from the standard 9-3 models. Notable exterior features include larger wheels, a distinctive front fender badge, and headlight wipers. The Viggen’s design maintains Saab’s quirky charm while offering a sporty and aggressive look.
Interior Highlights
Inside, the Viggen continues to impress with its unique features. The center console-mounted ignition switch, a hallmark of Saab design, is intended to prevent knee injuries in the event of an accident. The “Night Panel” button, another Saab innovation, turns off all interior lights except for the speedometer, reducing distractions during nighttime driving.
Driving the Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible
A Fun and Engaging Experience
Driving the 9-3 Viggen is a joy, thanks to its smooth and responsive turbocharged engine. The clutch and shifter action are well-tuned, providing a sporty and engaging feel. Despite its age, the Viggen’s performance remains impressive, delivering a surprising amount of power and excitement.
Handling and Comfort
The upgraded suspension and heavy-duty mechanical components ensure that the Viggen handles well, even by modern standards. While the car does exhibit some torque steer and cowl shake, typical of high-power front-wheel-drive convertibles from its era, these quirks add to its character rather than detract from the driving experience.
Known Flaws and Maintenance
Auction Listing Details
The current auction listing on Cars & Bids includes detailed information about the car’s condition. Known flaws include exterior scratches, weathered badges, wear on the soft top, and minor interior issues like cracked leather and faded pixels in the center console displays. The selling dealer has addressed some maintenance needs, such as changing the engine oil, filter, and battery, ensuring the car is ready for its new owner.
A Rare Opportunity for Saab Enthusiasts
The 2001 Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible is a rare and desirable model that offers a unique combination of performance, design, and Swedish charm. With its no reserve auction on Cars & Bids, this Viggen presents a fantastic opportunity for collectors and Saab enthusiasts to own a piece of automotive history. Don’t miss out on this chance to bid on and potentially own this special car.
In conclusion, the 2001 Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible is more than just a car; it’s a statement of individuality and a testament to Saab’s innovative spirit. Whether you’re drawn to its turbocharged performance, quirky design, or the thrill of driving a rare vehicle, the Viggen is sure to impress and delight. Bid now and experience the excitement of owning a Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible.
Related story: from Viggen’s power to 9000’s precision
While the Viggen Convertible represents the raw performance edge of Saab’s turbo heritage, another chapter of that story lives further back — in the elegant form of a 1989 Saab 9000 Turbo CD.
Now listed on Cars & Bids with no reserve, this Cirrus White sedan showcases the quiet sophistication that defined Saab’s executive era.
Read the full story: 1989 Saab 9000 Turbo CD resurfaces on Cars & Bids
