31 Jan 06
Having just driven the Volvo C70 last week, that other Swedish (albeit Ford-owned) convertible has to be more the rational, sensible option, with its hard-topped roof, giving a quieter ride, improved security and better protection in the event of an impact roof-up.
Yet despite the C70 being thoroughly well-engineered and offered with the great five-cylinder T5 turbo engine (220bhp) as used in the Ford Focus ST, one of the best hot hatches around, it's an uninspired drive, lacking the character of the Saab - something which continues to shine through, despite parent company General Motors' best attempts over the years to stifle the tiny Swedish firm's individuality.
Whereas the Volvo's interior is generic-feeling, grey and gloomy, the Saab's pale-upholstered cabin is light, airy and distinctive: for all that Saab's ads stressing the firm's aircraft heritage are well-worn and contrived, its design team can certainly style a unique mission-control cockpit.
