ADL’s “B” List for 2008

Not as hot as the 900 was in the 80s. But a fly ride, nonetheless.

“B” for “‘Bout Right”

Saab Turbo X

I was much more enthusiastic about the Turbo X in May than I was in October. There’s something about getting into an old Opel platform that’s cramped and noisy after just driving a fresh Holden design (Pontiac G8 GT) that has you second guessing.

So, following time at G8′s helm, I can say that the Turbo X isn’t near powerful enough, which means it isn’t fast enough. It isn’t near fuel efficient enough. And even with “XWD” (Haldex’s sophisticated all-wheel drive setup) providing a rear wheel drive feel, the Turbo X still understeers when you go hard into a sharp corner.

I imagine that if Trollhattan’s people could, they’d put all their eggs in the 9-1 basket and let it roll instead of trying to design a performance sedan on a zero dollar budget. A lean, high-tech hatch is what’s needed. That’s Saab’s true strength. That’s their distinct platform in a sour, crowded marketplace. But Saab can’t because they’re at the end of the receiving line and I digress…

On its own merits, the Turbo X is an accomplishment. It drives better than any Saab in history. By a long stretch. So much better, in fact, that it threatens the justification for buying front wheel driven Saabs; which along with the turbocharger is Saab’s schtick, last time I checked.

The Turbo X with LED sparkle and jet black finish is a handsome Swede. With a manual transmission, it is happy in its work. These two charming characteristics alone – in true Saab form – save the day.

So, If you’re a loyal Saabist and don’t mind trading in tradition for driving pleasure, it’s worth swapping out the old 9-5 Aero or even 9000 for a used Turbo X. For Viggen owners on the other hand… it’s your call. 

[Linked: Saab]

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Bentley Continental GTC

Like the Cadillac CTS, it’s difficult to put down a car that looks so very, very right. The Continental GTC, for all of its Volkswagen Phaeton underpinnings, is one gorgeous droptop. Visually, the Bentley marks the perfect aesthetic balance; modern luxury classically defined. 

And yet there remains too much VW behind the Flying B here. It’s a sticking point, I fear. Whereas the Continental GTC is likely best appreciated (and bought) by people who don’t know the difference, old school Rolls-Royce and Bentley people can tell. My friend who was kind enough to let me have a go behind the helm of his new GTC, traded in his old Arnage for this refined décapotable. 

Despite the praise he’s received from friends, neighbors, and bystanders for his new set of wheels, I couldn’t help but detect a slight bit of remorse over the fall of the ancien regime.

Trouble is, the car doesn’t feel like a Bentley even if it so sweetly carries off the look. Much of the interior’s functional bits and details are to blame for being entirely Audi/VW sourced; right down to the purple and red backlighting. The leather, while soft, doesn’t feel Connolly grade. There’s no seductive aroma. No true tactile delight. Just a good standard of luxury.

Where the GTC does carry on ye olde Crewe tradition is that the car maintains a tall profile. The driver sits high over the road – the position lies somewhere between a Toyota Highlander and a Subaru Forester. Plus, the 2+2 proceeds serenely, even when you burry the go pedal. And because its rag-top is so well insulated, it manages to rival the boxy Arnage in cabin quietness.

The W12 dials high numbers on the speedo swiftly and with zero drama. Paradoxically, this rapid rate of progress feels like it’s happening in slow motion. And perhaps that’s the point for this kind of car. A gentle, but capable cruiser. But then again, if that truly is the point then it’s a little too boring. Perhaps, some of us are just more accustomed to the Wagnerian drama of an American or German big bloc V8. 

Ultimately, the GTC  stands as a prime addition to anyone’s collection. But if you have the choice, opt for tradition and take the (Arnage based) Azure T, instead. In the Azure you get tradition with all the modern comforts and none of the VW pretense.

[Linked: Bentley]