Basic information and history

The first-generation Saab 9-3 Cabriolet represents one of the best-known open cars from Trollhättan in the early 2000s. The combination of a turbocharged two-litre inline-four, Saab's Trionic engine management, SAHR-integrated front seats and reinforcements adapted for an open chassis gives a character appreciated by both enthusiasts and everyday drivers. Around 2002 the model entered its final years with refined detail quality and the well-known Saab feel in the drivetrain.

This example was imported from the United Kingdom and was purchased there in 2005 according to the seller. The odometer is stated to read 320,000 kilometres. The seller describes their background with a Saab 9-5 in Sweden and that the dream was a cabriolet, and that the car has given the family a positive ownership experience over time. The seller notes a lack of time and knowledge for continued care as the reason for sale and hopes the next owner will take over. The seller also states that the car was referred to as model year 2003 at the time of purchase in the UK.

The instrument panel shows a warning light for a non-functioning headlamp. Otherwise, the information on condition and history is provided by the seller.

Equipment and options

• Package-equipped Saab SE
• Leather upholstery
• Convertible soft top
• All-weather tyres fitted
• Four original Saab wheels included (see image under Miscellaneous)

Modifications and improvements

No non-original performance or chassis modifications are known according to the seller. The following measures and work have been carried out:

• Passenger door previously repainted
• Engine gone through on an ongoing basis from 2005 to 2016 in the United Kingdom and Sweden, thereafter serviced in preparation for inspection
• Thorough service and wash in Sweden in 2019
• Engine overhauled by a retired teacher from the local automotive vocational school
• Handbrake remedied and tightened in 2024 and 2025

Condition

Body and exterior: Paint damage on the left rear wing and minor paint damage at the wheel arches. Clearly visible rust bubbling at all wheel-arch edges. The convertible mechanism is oxidised with evident rust on parts of the mechanism. Passenger door has been repainted. Headlamp lenses show normal wear and need polishing. According to the seller, the glass shows normal signs of use with no cracks or stone chips.

Interior: In good condition with age-appropriate wear. Leather upholstery is free of cracks according to the seller. Headliner is in good condition. Steering wheel is in good condition. One blanking button is missing from the panel. The ring at the mounting point of the gear knob has come loose and slides down. Surface rust noted on the rear seat belt mounts and headrest posts.

Tyres and wheels: All-weather tyres are fitted and should be replaced. Four original Saab wheels are included.

Mechanics and functions: The engine is said to be in good condition and was gone through annually between 2005 and 2016, thereafter serviced before inspection. Brakes with normal wear. Gearbox and drivetrain operate well according to the seller. Handbrake adjusted in 2024 and 2025. Warning light for a non-functioning headlamp is illuminated. The soft top operates without issues.

Service history

The service book is reportedly filled in according to the manufacturer's intervals. Regular servicing was carried out between 2005 and 2016 during the period the car was used frequently in the United Kingdom and Sweden. Thereafter, servicing has been carried out ahead of inspections, including a more extensive service and wash in Sweden in 2019. Documentation in the form of previous service records, history and receipts is available according to the seller.

The most recent approved inspection is dated 18 July 2025.

Summary

Imported Saab 9-3 Cabriolet with documented use and service history, odometer 320,000 kilometres and approved inspection in summer 2025. The car has clearly documented cosmetic and body-related needs, in particular rust at the wheel-arch edges and oxidation in the convertible mechanism, but is said to have been mechanically gone through with a functioning drivetrain and adjusted handbrake. Tyres should be replaced and a headlamp warning light is illuminated.

The seller highlights the model as a personal favourite and describes it as one of the best-looking cars ever built. This example suits an enthusiast who values the Saab feel and can take on rust protection, cosmetics and continued routine maintenance.