how reliable/nice is a 2005 saab 9-3 Linear?

Check this out - should give you a good idea

http://www.edmunds.com/saab/93/2005/consumerreview...

I would get the newer one even if you don't prefer the color. The Saab 9-3 from 2003 to 2005 were rated to be the second most unreliable car in the US, following the Land Rover LR3. In 2006, reliability made its way to average. You will be spending so much money in repairs to the 2005, you will be well over the price of getting the color of the 2006 changed. If you really want the 2005, go to Kelley Blue Book and get the value, and also ask for a Carfax History Report. Those come pretty handy when buying used. Good Luck

Car near the top of the food chain. Competes well (I think) with most vehicles that cost alot more. Repairs cost more because of the above average parts. I'd buy one in a minute. I think most mechanics would rate it as very reliable and less prone for repairs than Jag or BMW which are very complex vehicles. I would personally buy one with 100,000 on it for a good price.

If you are in the USA, just remember that European vehicles cost a lot more to repair than American or Japanese ones.