Car choice: Saab or Rover? Can a car from a defunct maker ever be a sensible idea?
Karl Simpson is getting rid of his ancient Citroen ZX and wants to buy a Saab 900 with his £700 budget
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A car for the head
What Karl is really asking is, “should I go from an outdated old car to one where the model isn’t just obsolete, the manufacturer is dead too?” Well, just because the maker is no more doesn’t mean a car is no longer worth owning. For that reason we would recommend Karl seriously consider a Rover. That company sadly ceased building cars in 2005, but a Rover 75 is a comfortable, largely reliable, stylish saloon or estate car. He should join the75andztclub.co.uk for help from enthusiasts. A 2.0 V6 Club SE with service history and MOT is £700.
A car for the heart
If Karl wants a Saab 900, then he should have one. Although I believe the almost identical and later 9-3 model is the much better buy, however. Below £1,000 there is a very large choice. It is vital to find an example that has been well looked after. Saab ceased trading in 2012, but the legacy of their tough and stylish cars lives on. Again, there is an enthusiastic owners club, saabclub.co.uk, and companies who can still get vital parts. A 2003 2.0 T Arc which had been freshly cleaned and “ready to drive away” – all for £794.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments