Fastest Hood in the West

[john]

JohnSen has passed this to me from the Motoring Telegraph:

Saab has started to take orders for its drophead, which goes on sale this September.

The £26,000 175bhp, 2-litre turbo model will be joined by a more expensive 210bhp version (Aero) in October and a £24,000 150bhp version in January.

Our money is on the 175bhp, which is by far the nicest combination. There might eventually be a diesel model, but Saab marketing folk are far from convinced that the British customers will accept oil-burning, open-air motoring and are waiting for the diesel Audi Cabrio to open up that market.

At 20-seconds from up to down, the all electric hood is said to be the fastest in the market and, as it will also furl itself at speeds of up to 15mph, it should provide an effective urban airbrake.

[rob123]

Yes, I saw this too. Some attractive photos as well but quite small. Good to see the Telegraph ( or as John once called it 'Torygraph' bing so positive .

[john]

IIRC the classic 9-3 convertible did not allow the opening/closure of the roof whilst the vehicle was moving ...on safety grounds.

Is the fact that the new ones does allow it at speeds of up to 15mph a sign that GM is dumbing down the heritage of Saab safety? (see other thread)