MINI Cooper vs. Saab 9-3 Review

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. The MINI is substantially cheaper to get to the dealership than the Saab. The Saab pales in comparison to the MINI Cooper as far as gas mileage. With respect to gas mileage, the MINI bests the Saab 9-3. The MINI Cooper is tremendously less expensive than the Saab 9-3 when it comes to MSRP. The 9-3 will cost you a bundle in gasoline every year compared to the Cooper. The MINI Cooper will save you a bunch of money at the pump every year compared to the 9-3.

Utility
The MINI Cooper is likely a better choice than the Saab 9-3 regarding hauling capacity, especially if you often need to carry a lot of gear or large dogs. The MINI and the Saab 9-3 can accommodate the same number of passengers.

Convenience
You'll quite certainly take the Saab 9-3 for a fill-up about as often as the MINI Cooper. The Saab's fuel tank will need to be replenished a little more often than the unit in the MINI Cooper. You likely won't have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Saab than with the MINI Cooper, as both offer comparable ranges.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the MINI Cooper offers a bit more head room than the Saab 9-3, there frankly isn't much of a difference. The Saab 9-3 provides more head- and leg-room to your passengers than the MINI Cooper does.

Dimensions
The Saab 9-3 is markedly heavier than the Cooper. Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Saab 9-3 than the MINI because of its larger tank. The MINI Cooper fits in smaller parking spaces than the Saab 9-3. The Saab's longer wheelbase will likely result in a smoother, more stable ride; however, the Cooper may give a nimbler feel in daily traffic.

Performance
As far as horsepower, the Saab 9-3 packs quite a wallop and will knock the MINI Cooper down a few rungs. However, note that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
Really small tires, like the ones on the MINI, might improve gas mileage but can also look a little odd. With their comparable turning circles, the MINI Cooper and the Saab 9-3 doubtless handle roughly the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Saab 9-3's engine is substantially more sizeable than the MINI Cooper's. Keep in mind that more sizeable engines may use more gasoline than smaller ones. Torque is the force that lets you accelerate quickly, and in this respect, the 9-3 is tremendously more powerful than the MINI Cooper. The Cooper could learn a lesson or two from the 9-3 regarding pickup.

Overview
The Saab 9-3 and the Cooper have the same basic after-sale protection.