1997 Near‑Luxury Sedans Battle for the Corporate Ladder
Car and Driver’s February 1997 roundup pits nine $30‑K sedans against each other for the attention of newly minted six‑figure earners.
Choosing a “Near‑Luxury” Sedan
Car and Driver’s February 1997 issue presents a buying guide for executives who have just crossed the six‑figure salary threshold and want a sedan that signals fiscal conservatism without triggering the $34,000 luxury tax. The guide targets a price window just above the most expensive family cars—around $28,000—and below the tax ceiling.
How the Field Was Trimmed
The magazine’s buyers list originally contained 17 sedans in the $28,000‑$34,000 range. Five were eliminated based on prior comparison‑test standings and road‑test results. The BMW 3‑Series and Mercedes C‑Class were excluded because only their four‑cylinder versions stay under the tax limit and their interiors are deemed too small for four executives. The Audi A4 was also dropped for similar interior‑space concerns. The remaining nine models constitute the cream of the crop.
New Entrants and Updates Since 1994
Acura TL, Cadillac Catera and Infiniti I30 entered the segment.
The Ford Taurus SHO received a V‑8, lost its manual transmission and was rebranded as an “executive express.”
Lexus ES300 and Mitsubishi Diamante were redesigned.
Volvo 850GLT gained a light‑pressure turbocharged engine.
Saab 900SE V‑6 moved into the price range.
Mazda Millenia’s supercharged Miller‑cycle version rose above the budget, so the normally aspirated L model was tested.
None of the sedans is fully loaded. No car in the group includes all four of the following items: traction control, CD player, remote key‑less entry, and variable intermittent wipers. Heated seats appear in only three models, dual‑zone climate control in two, and a trip computer is exclusive to the Saab.
Saab 900SE – The Stand‑Out
For executives at avant‑garde firms, the Saab 900SE is highlighted as a statement of individuality. Its floor‑mounted ignition switch, distinctive silhouette, and tall front seats convey a “different and proud” image. Practical quirks include a rear hatch and split‑folding back seat with an armrest pass‑through, providing over 50 cubic feet of cargo space (62 × 34 × 25 in). A drawback noted is the high, far‑back windshield, which can limit visibility of overhead traffic signals.
Testing Grounds
The comparative drives took place in the Hocking Hills of southeast Ohio, allowing the reviewers to assess acceleration, handling and comfort across varied terrain.
The nine models illustrate how the near‑luxury sedan segment in 1997 balances performance, modest luxury and tax‑friendly pricing for the upward‑mobile professional.
Choosing the right sedan can signal both achievement and prudence as you climb the corporate ladder.
