Although this is a redesigned Saab, the instrument panel and controls will make previous 900 owners feel right at home. Everything is where it's always been. The clean analog dials are easy to read through the big steering wheel, and the simple rotary climate controls have now become fashionable.As part of the character-preservation process, Saab even kept the ignition lock where it's always been, which is between the front seats - a tradition that could have been dropped, in our opinion. The seats feel the same - snug, supportive and sporty, with a good range of adjustability. There's also ample front legroom, plenty of headroom throughout, and surprisingly good backseat leg-room for a car of this size. Our convertible had the additional allure of leather upholstery and, of course, fresh air at the flip of a switch. It didn't have the voluminous luggage capacity of the hatchback - 24 cu. ft. with the rear seatbacks in place and a whopping 49.8 cu. ft. with the seatbacks folded forward - but there was enough space in the trunk for a modest amount of luggage. Even though Volvo is the Swede best known for safety, the 900 also gets exceptionally good marks on this score. Besides dual airbags, the 900 provides excellent side-impact shielding. Also, the stiff body structure offers extra protection in roll-overs. The windshield pillar, for example, was designed to withstand a force of four tons, which benefits the convertible as well as the hard-topped members of the family. There are 3-point seat belts at all seating positions and head restraints on the four outboard seats. A head restraint for the rear middle seat is an option. Like Volvo, Saab has joined the ranks of manufacturers who think you should have your lights on any time you're driving: Daytime Running Lights are standard on all '95 Saabs. On the active safety front, all members of the 900 line come equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes, and all have standard anti-lock.
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