Kevin Mc

Didn't see the Megane bit in your post - thought you were after bigger convertibles

Definately girly - but doubt they're very fast. Are they?

[Edited by Kevin Mc - 9/5/2003 10:26:03 AM]

9-5

Actually the old 9-3 is based on the Cavalier..

It's a nice stylish car, ok to drive, but it does need tweeking to be fun!

Only the very latest 9-3ss & sc are based on epsilon
Up until the 9-3ss/c all engines were saab apart from diesels and V6's.

[Edited by 9-5 - 9/5/2003 8:53:16 PM]

GTI

My sis wants a decent sized convertible has been looking at Meganes etc but also Saab sized things like the Audi 80 Convertible.

Is there anything which fits the bill (not Golf) upto about £10k.
Seen a few Abbot Racing 900's she likes with 300bhpish for around £10k.

Any advice? Not sure about reliablity of Megane.
Wants something with a bit of pace or alot in the Saabs case she also has a heavy foot.

Thanks Guys!

GTI

BTT come on someone must have suggestions!

Kevin Mc

I can give more suggestions but have no experience of any

3 series conv.
Merc conv.
TVR S (not very practical though)

I think you've hit the 2 best options with the Saab and Audi - both decent size and prestige. Merc and BM will probably be more expensive. Everyone whinges about scuttle shake on the Saab - not sure about the Audi.

You could get a 9-3 conv for less than £10k, then let Abbotts, Speedparts or Maptun sort out the ECU to bring it up to decent power. Plenty of suspension upgrades available for 9-3 and NG900 too.

Tiggs

get the renault, prettier than the saab and fine for a girl

Corpulent Tosser

Saab = Scuttle shake, my brother had one. Nice car apart from that though.

I wouldn't worry too much about renault reliability, I had a Laguna some years ago (but I am OK now) and it was reliable. Mrs Tosser is on her secon Clio, again no reliability problems.

I know that is not everyones experience but there you go.

Dapster

Remember the 9-3 is based on the Vectra platform and is about as exciting to drive. It may do 200,000 miles without going wrong but it won't be much fun to drive around corners. If you're after thrills the 3 series is the pick, if not the Saab and Audi will treat you well if you buy carefully and look after them.

A £10k Merc will be an older W124 model I think (rather than a CLK) which is not a bad buy but looks a bit "Dallas" compared to the others here.

If you don't need the back seats then what about an Alfa GTV?

GTI

Won't have an alfa, she likes the Audi and Saab but likes a bit of pace she likes the Megane too!
She might like a BMW but don't think so, will suggest!

dba

Epsilon actually,and all the main parts are Saab,except head and block.

Dapster

You're right DBA, but my point was that they aren't a whole heap of fun in the twisties. Never driven one - just what I've read.