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The topless model The first Saab convertible virtually created the concept of the four-seater, four-season convertible. For two decades Saab has been the leading category and now expectations are running high. Everyone awaits a worthy successor and the Swedes have done just that with the launch of the Saab 9-3 Convertible. For those not familiar with the four-seater convertible, it is a lot more than just fair weather driving. The Saab 9-3 Convertible is made for pouring rain, blinding sunshine, morning breezes, hazy dawns, icy roads, storms, moonlight, falling snow, tender twilight, blizzards, autumn afternoons and dark nights. Although the interior space is roomier, the 2004 Saab 9-3 convertible is more sturdy and larger than its predecessor, yet it retains the feel and manners of a entry-level luxury sports car. With two turbocharged 2.0-liter engines to choose from, Saab 9-3 has plenty of power in reserve. The problem of torque steer is nicely eliminated this year with a new front wheel drive configuration. The 2004 Saab 9-3 handles as well as anything else out there. Steering and breaks on the Saab 9-3 are masterfully engineered to be quick and sure. The standard engine pulls its weight with aplomb, and for those with a thirst for more power, the turbocharged 210-horsepower is deceptively quick. Its engine is designed for responsiveness and confident power delivery. The turbo certainly makes the car fun and rewarding to drive. Should you press on a bit you?l recognize the temperament of a sports car. But power is also an important safety feature. It makes everyday driving smooth and overtaking so much quicker. All that power is harnessed by a chassis designed for active driving, balance and consistent behaviour. The advanced rear axle even takes part in the steering and adds stability when braking hard. There are two different versions of the Saab 9-3? new turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine. 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque are produced by the low-pressure turbo base engine coupled with a five-speed manual standard or a five-speed automatic. The high-pressure turbo engine option produces 210 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque with a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. The Saab 9-3 Convertible offers 205 horsepower from its turbocharged four-cylinder coupled to a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. Safety standards in the Saab 9-3 Convertible are as advanced and as uncompromising as in all the other Saab models. The fact that this one has an open compartment imposes particular demands on passenger protection. Saab research goes beyond the norms specified in legislation, it is based on what happens in real-life situations, which explains why it is referred to as real-life safety. The advanced safety system features active roll-over protection, seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, airbags and whiplash protection (SAHR). The same basic safety concept has goven the sedan version five stars in the EurolNCAP safety ratings. The front seatbelts are integrated into the seat backrests. This is not only a safety feature. Together with the easy entry function it also makes entrance into the back seat easier. The new Saab 9-3 includes active head restraints, adaptive force front airbags, and seat-mounted side torso airbags. In side-impact collisions, passengers are protected by side curtain airbags in both the front and rear seats. Standard on all models are antilock brakes, traction control, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and stability control systems. 2004 Saab 93 offers larger, easier to read gauges compared to previous years. To help keep driver's eyes on the road, a new center-mounted display screen allows for easier review of settings. There are also numerous environmental and seating presets that can be restored. In the driving seat, you have a powerful climate unit, a range of sound systems to choose from, DVD-based navigation and an integral telephone with Bluetooth interface, for work or pleasure. The Saab 9-3 Convertible is also one of the most spacious and versatile cars in its class. Part of the explanation is CargoSET (Self Expanding Trunk), the function that expands the luggage capacity as you raise the roof top. The space occupied by the folded soft top becomes available for luggage. However, there is still plenty of space even with the roof lowered. The CargoWing serves as a spoiler when lowered, and when raised it becomes a functional rack to carry objects such as skis and snowboards. The towhook-mounted bike carrier is also naturally designed for the Saab 9-3 Convertible. Choosing a Saab 9-3 Convertible is in itself a personal statement. Still, you have a wide scope for putting your own personal stamp on its appearance. The first stage is to choose between Linear, Vector and high-performance Aero. Three expressions of Scandinavian design with different personalities ?inside and out. The next step is even more enjoyable ?tailor the car exactly as you like. Choose and add until it matches your style perfectly. After all, design is personal and nobody knows it better than you do. Linear represents natural Scandinavian simplicity ?refined, clean, modern. The upholstery incorporates Saab? unique Hydroblox laminate for maximum water resistance ?an important feature in a convertible. Colour-matched surround trim can be specified for the Lime Yellow and Steel Grey body colours. On the outside you can give the car a distinctive personality by specifying the 10-spoke light alloy wheels. Vector exudes performance and dynamics. The 17-inch wheels enhance the sharp handling and sporty stance. The interior of the Vector continues the theme: classic leather highlights the metal finish. Colour-matched surround trim can be specified for the Lime Yellow and Steel Grey body colours. Meanwhile, the Aero is the top model. It is built with absolute focus on the driving experience, and the interior design is a clear indication of the sporty theme. Colour-matched surround trim can be specified, and when on the move, the spoilers and skirts reduce lift forces. Add to that the 17-inch wheels, broad high-speed tyres, extra-large ventilated disc brakes all round and a very inspiring chassis. You benefit from all this when you unleash the power of the turbo engine? 300 Nm on a suitably twisting road. Drive and enjoy. TOP