2012 & 2013 SAAB Convertible Reviews & Ratings

The Saab convertible is nothing new to the company. Not long after their initial entry into the automobile market, Saab began producing convertible versions of their vehicles. However, like many of their automobiles, those early models had a striking resemblance to their roots in the aircraft industry. Saab began their history as a division of Swedish Aeroplane Limited in 1937 as a company that was designed to create aircraft for the Swedish Air Force. They would make their first passenger c... (full review continues below)

The Saab convertible is nothing new to the company. Not long after their initial entry into the automobile market, Saab began producing convertible versions of their vehicles. However, like many of their automobiles, those early models had a striking resemblance to their roots in the aircraft industry. Saab began their history as a division of Swedish Aeroplane Limited in 1937 as a company that was designed to create aircraft for the Swedish Air Force. They would make their first passenger car in 1947 and offer it for sale in 1948. It wasn't until 1989 when the company became an independent automobile group known as Saab Automobile AB.

Throughout its years, Saab would find itself moved between several different automotive groups. At one point it was owned by General Motors and they were responsible for the design, manufacturing and marketing of the brand. It also spent some time as a part of Spyker motors. Currently, Saab is struggling a bit financially but the consensus is that it will rebound and rebuild to be a stronger and more resilient company. All these years later, the company is still producing a version of Saab convertible.

The first Saab Convertible to hit the market was manufactured during two time periods. The Saab Sonett was first produced between the years 1955 and 1957 and was intended to be a car destined for racing. When the rules changed, production was stopped. It was later resumed in 1966 and continued until 1974. The two door, two seat roadster was also known by the names of Saab 94 and Saab Super Sport. It could reach top speeds of 120 mph which was part of the reason it was designed to be a racing vehicle in the beginning.

The current Saab convertible on the market is the 9-3. It was originally introduced in 1998 and gained quite a bit of popularity. Like many previous models, the 9-3 is a two door convertible featuring a front wheel drive. It is currently in its second generation on the market. The 9-3 started as a luxury convertible with the many features that one would expect from a Saab. Plenty of room in the cabin and a design that was appealing made it a natural in the company's line-up. However, over the years the 9-3 has received ample competition and it no longer measures up in quite the same way. A redesign has been promised on a forthcoming new model and the car is in desperate need. Compared to others in its class, the 9-3 is very outdated.

From its early roots, Saab has been known for producing roadsters that could rival other cars on the racing circuit. The company has built a reputation of quality and style in their vehicles that make even the most outdated model of today one that appeals to many. An upgrade to the existing 9-3 will easily put Saab back into the competition based solely on brand name recognition.