Saab was discontinued back in 2012, but many of these Swedish cars continue to cruise the roads, including their manual models. It may take a bit of searching but if you want to stick with the stick, a Saab is a solid choice.

If you’re a purist, then there is nothing more sacred than the manual gearbox. You may be wishing the world’s automakers shared that same sentiment since in 2019, close to 99% of all new cars sold in the United States were automatics.

If control of the clutch is a must-have, the

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In this article, we’ll take a tour down Manual Lane and give you an up-close look at some classic Saab manual models like the Saab 9000 and Saab 9-3 Convertible.

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Does Saab still make a manual?

Unfortunately, Saab doesn’t make manuals anymore. The Swedish automaker filed for bankruptcy in 2012 and was sold off shortly before being discontinued.

That may feel like a gut punch if you’re in the market for a manual Saab model, but the good news is you can still find a quality stick-shift Saab in the used car market.

MORE: 7 things to look for when buying a used car

Saab 9000

List Price Estimate: $804 - $1,726

If you’re ready to party like it’s 1999, then lace up your Doc Martens and hop into the Saab 9000. This fast-moving executive car outfitted with high-performance manual transmission was the premiere Saab model of the ‘90s.

Depending on what year you select, you can get up to 225 horsepower—transforming your fancy company car into a premiere track car. Combine that with 5500 rpm and a maximum torque of 173 Nm, and you’ll be turning heads in your decades-old Swedish ride.

Saab 9-3 Cabriolet 1.8t

List Price Estimate: $2,980 - $6250

For many car enthusiasts, there’s nothing better than manning the clutch with the wind in your face. Luckily, the

Saab 9-3

Cabriolet 1.8t delivers just that! Produced from 2003 to 2011, this front-wheel-drive, front-engined two-door convertible, is a pleasure to drive.

With 148 horsepower, the turbocharged 2 Liter 16v Inline 4 gasoline engine accelerates this 9-3 Cabriolet to 62 mph in 10.5 seconds. It also has a maximum speed of 127 mph. While it may not be the fastest Saab you can get, it’s certainly one of the most stylish and fun models out there.

Saab 9-3 Sport Hatch Aero 2.0T

List Price Estimate: $1,550 - $3,885

Introduced in the waning years of Sabb, the

Saab 9-3 Hatch Aero

2.0T has a lot going for it. With its solid fuel economy, top speed of 143 mph, and turbocharged Inline 4 cylinder engine, the hatchback boasts a cool and sporty vibe.

The Aero 2.0T handles well provided you know how to properly operate its classic 6-speed manual gearbox. If you do, you’re in for a smooth ride.

Saab 9-3 SportCombi

List Price Estimate: $1,984 - $4,135

Saab did it all: sedans, coupes, convertibles, and wagons too! Meet the Saab 9-3 SportCombi.

Equipped with a V6 engine and reaching a top speed of 137 mph, this wagon can do more than just pick up the kids from soccer. Plus, Its six-speed manual gearbox leaves you in complete control behind the wheel.

It may not be the most luxurious on the inside, but it provides a smooth ride with accurate steering and reliable all-wheel-drive performance.

MORE: How to drive stick or manual cars

Benefits and drawbacks of a manual transmission

Whether you’re team manual or team automatic, each one has its pros and cons. You may be firm in your stance—but if you’re still unsure, take a look at some of the advantages of manual transmission:

Pro: Manual transmissions cost less.

Pro: With only

44%

and

84%

of US drivers don’t know how to drive stick, car theft is less likely to happen.

Pro: Repair costs are lower with manual transmission issues.

Pro: They’re perfect for a joy ride!

While you may not be able to imagine yourself with anything other than a clutch, you should keep these downsides with the manual gearbox in mind:

Con: Stop-and-go traffic can be tough with three-pedal driving.

Con: With fewer manual drivers, there aren’t as many people out there who can show you how to drive a manual.

Con: The fuel economy on manuals isn’t what it used to be.

A glaring setback of manual transmissions is how rare they are to find. There were only

27 new cars with manual transmissions

available in the US as of 2021.

Key Takeaway Manual transmissions are great for nostalgia, but not so great in terms of their accessibility.

MORE:

Should I buy a sports car?

How to find affordable Saab insurance

No matter what gearbox you’ve got in your Saab, you can find the lowest rate on

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FAQs

Is a manual transmission Saab more reliable?

You’ll typically see lower repair costs with a manual Saab, and you might find that your ride is more reliable—after all, the simpler mechanics of the manual gearbox mean breaking parts are less common.

Is a manual or an automatic better?

If there was a definitive answer to this question, car enthusiasts would have a lot less to talk about! If you find driving stick more enjoyable and want to lower upfront and repair costs, a manual might be the better option.

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