'Just wondering what you ST220 owners are planning to do with your cars long term. We all know they are thirsty mofos and can thus be had relativlely cheaply due to everyone hopping on the turbo diesel bandwagon. The Duratec V6 engine is apparently very reliable and maintenance costs are reasonable. Do any of you intend running yours into the ground before replacing? I'm thinking that could be the way forward.
Also, what other sports saloons do you think could offer a similar price/performance ratio in the coming years?
I bought mine because it (in my mind, anyway) offered the best balance of performance, reliability, comfort, equipment and driveability for under about £8-10k. I knew that I would be keeping it a while and I can see me doing so. I still love driving it, and I still look back at it when I park it. I cannot see me replacing it until something truly superior comes along at a price I can afford.
I feel that as time goes on, worthy 'competitors' to the ST220 include the Octavia VRS and Mazda 6 MPS. but I chose it over these because of price and possible reliability issues.
Unless my circumstances change drastically, forcing me to replace it, then I'll keep it until I can afford something which will be a worthy upgrade. Something like an Audi S4, BMW M3, some form of Corvette (!)
I'm not fussed about the residuals at all. Mine's done 80k and will probably have a good chunk more when I do sell it. It'll sell for what it sells for
The Saab 9-3 is a much inferior car, IMHO.
