$47,900 Saab 9-5 from 2011 Driven by Doug DeMuro

The second-generation 9-5 was based on the GM Epsilon II platform, which means it's related to the old Chevy Impala, Malibu, Buick LaCrosse and Regal. Saab reportedly took the architecture and changed nearly everything about it, which made it very strong in a crash, but also quite expensive.

Even though cars were much cheaper eight years ago, the particular 9-5 that Doug DeMuro tested stickered for a massive $47,900 with options. As he put it, it would be expensive at $35,000, but you'd have to be downright crazy to take the plunge just because it was unusual.

In North America, the sedan was available with two engines, a powerful V6 with 300 HP and this 2-liter turbo with 220. That's where the quirks start since it's called a 2.0 "BioPower." Many companies were developing hybrids for the luxury segment, but Saab didn't have the money so instead opted for an ethanol-compatible setup.

The exterior design probably the most prominent redeeming feature of this car. It's clean to the extreme, with a unique sloping roof. Of course, you can tell that Saab didn't have the money it needed for development since the taillights are not uniformly lit.

Several quirks are concentrated on the dash. For a near-luxury car, the 9-5 has lots more plastic than we're used to. But that's nothing compared to the plastic trim that imitates the air vents and continues over the top of the speedometer. Saab also had an aviation theme going on, so there's a "Night Panel" button, which shuts off all the interior lights and sets you up for a relaxing cruise. It's inspired by a feature most jet fighters have for nighttime sorties.

Unfortunately, we feel that the 9-5 doesn't live up to the hype. But maybe we're not hipster architects or doctors, and there's something we're missing here.