SAAB'S 9-3 is based on an old GM platform which was used for such mundane transportation as the Vauxhall Cavalier. So, no surprises about the mundane nature of the drivetrain then, which comprises a transverse-mounted engine driving the front wheels. What does get interesting is when a fair amount of torque and kilowatts is channelled to those front wheels. Torque steer aplenty can be the result.