I know that there
are more pressing issues in the world, such as helping those devastated by the
earthquakes in
I ask myself why it has such an effect. I know Saabs aren’t the best cars in the
world, but their combination of characteristics are endearing and build
loyalty. The 1997 Saab 900 was the only
product I’ve ever tried that made me an impulse shopper. I ended up buying one and I still like
driving it, don’t think I could ever sell it.
So there is the product aspect, but there will always be competent cars
produced by somebody else. Sure, they
won’t have that same Trollhattan magic, but many other vehicles would be
satisfying to own and operate. That’s
not the only reason why Saab fans are so fervent and gathering around the world to rally around
their favorite car brand. What makes the complete brand? It’s what the brand stands for and how it
does so with style, consistency, a feeling that it generates with every
interaction one has with the product, communications and service from the
company. It really represents what us
Saab owners are all about, as does any choice of vehicle. We like to consider ourselves, unique, intelligent,
not-too-pretentious, practical, and considerate lovers of driving and
cars. We become attached to our vehicles and
find it hard to part with them. But we forget
that every company selling cars is a business first and foremost. And it’s sad.
GM will do with
Saab what they think is best for their shareholders. Saab may go the way of the defunct brands like
Oldsmobile, Eagle, Studebaker, and Edsel for business reasons only. It’s all about money, but that’s not a good
enough answer for those of us who are passionate about Saabs. We are part of a tight-knit community that
helps each other with issues and advice, networks for jobs, and are supportive
to each other in a way that may be unsurpassed by other vehicle owner groups
who are often too large or too immature.
+ Atul
Hmm You are wrong ... SAAB IS THE BEST CAR ON THIS PLANET - I don't see any reason to buy Audi, BMW or Mercedes - prices are very comparable - as for me 5-10,000 EUR less or more does not matter, but German's cars are borring. There is nothing to love. Jappanese and other cars are at least 1-2 level down. If SAAB dissaper I have a big problem what car buy next and I have very limited choice - VOLVO, Jaguar or maybe a last choice be BMW
Posted by: aero | January 23, 2010 at 10:34 AM
At last, thank you for expressing my feelings about Saab accurately and articulately. GM please listen to us. Save Saab.
Posted by: rmbang | January 24, 2010 at 09:34 AM
I agree with this article in many ways. My brother owns a SAAB and he says it is his favorite car he's ever driven and owned. If they do loose this company, sales will drop for other companies with people retaliating. Also about how it was said that we become attached to our cars I agree as well, my sister has been borrowing my car while hers is broken and it becomes aggravating to me that it's not "mine" for the time being.
Posted by: Evia P | January 26, 2010 at 10:56 AM
Aero,
I should have said, "Saabs aren't considered the best cars on the planet". I like them best too.
RMBang,
Thanks for the compliment. I wanted to make non-Saab people understand why we love the brand and why it must be saved. It looks like our support worked!
Evia,
We don't have to worry about losing Saab in the near future. Cars are more than mere possessions which is why we get attached.
Posted by: UH2L | February 03, 2010 at 10:13 AM