So I've been thinking of buying another car

[watkins]

Saab 9-3 hatch can be made VERY hot. Car and mods together could feasibly cost less than some other hot hatches all on their own. Bang for the buck is a great old Saab trait.

I've thought about it, I really liked the 900s.

As in the original 900s? Those need a bit more effort for race car things. The new generation (NG900) is the same basic platform as the original 9-3 (OG9-3) and is far easier to work with

[theholycow]

i have to confess, despite knowing tires matter a lot, i'm not sure i could go back to a 2WD car after this car, at least not as a daily driver in the northeast.

I used to drive my 4WD pickup all winter. Then I started driving the RWD Buick when no new snow was expected and the roads were clear. Now I just leave the truck in the yard with the plow mounted and tires chained and drive the RWD Buick everywhere.

[watkins]

Its all about tires, not the drivetrain

[Squint]

I honestly don't drive enough in the snow to justify AWD. I also admit, the snowstorms I've driven in, the Civics have done a pretty good job in. I've thought about getting a 4WD truck for potentially plowing.

Be careful about plowing. You will need to check your state's/city's rules about individuals plowing. We had a discussion at work this morning about how some places have laws restricting people outside of _______ companies or labor unions from plowing. Obviously your own property is fine, but if you were wanting to do stuff elsewhere, make sure you know the details.

[potownrob]

Its all about tires, not the drivetrain

i wish i could agree with you, i wish i could. this AWD setup must be performing some kind of magic.

[tankinbeans]

No, it's all about the pentiums.

[youtube]http://youtu.be/qpMvS1Q1sos[/youtube]