Saab 9-3 Aero (98-02) - opinions?
Discussion
As we've found ourselves (I say found, I was fully aware!!) with two RWD sports cars heading towards the winter, I said I wouldn't buy a third car again, but in terms or practiclity & my missus having something a bit easier to drive in the snow than the S2000, I can still see myself buying something cheap as a backup/pactical car.
Previously I have ran an 850 T5 for this task, which lead to a lovely 850R. After the Volvo's I had always had a soft spot for the other Swede's, often considering a 9-5 Aero estate. Anyway, I digress...
I actually really like the original 9-3 Aero, I just think the shape looks great, especially with the later front end. I've seen quite a cheap grey late model 5 door one close by and am considering it. I always used to overlook the 5 door version, but I actually quite like it now.
I was always told a 9-5 or 9-3ss would be much better in terms or handling abilities, my brother has a 9-3SS Aero, nice car, quick enough, quite a firm ride and seems to handle well - but doesn't look like a true Saab to me, and interior trim quality is not great.
So, going back to the original 9-3 Aero - is it really that bad on the handling front? If so, what does it need to make it acceptable - and how much will that likely cost?
Thanks for any advice
Previously I have ran an 850 T5 for this task, which lead to a lovely 850R. After the Volvo's I had always had a soft spot for the other Swede's, often considering a 9-5 Aero estate. Anyway, I digress...
I actually really like the original 9-3 Aero, I just think the shape looks great, especially with the later front end. I've seen quite a cheap grey late model 5 door one close by and am considering it. I always used to overlook the 5 door version, but I actually quite like it now.
I was always told a 9-5 or 9-3ss would be much better in terms or handling abilities, my brother has a 9-3SS Aero, nice car, quick enough, quite a firm ride and seems to handle well - but doesn't look like a true Saab to me, and interior trim quality is not great.
So, going back to the original 9-3 Aero - is it really that bad on the handling front? If so, what does it need to make it acceptable - and how much will that likely cost?
Thanks for any advice
Hmmm, it does sound like a bit of effort when pretty much any other hot Saab would be a better bet in the handling department out of the box. How did GM make such a flexy car!!??
Still, I do like them.
To be honest, any aero would get a look from me, so maybe I should stick to my original plan of 9k or 9-5. I'd even go for a c900 but with my recent 944 purchase I think I only have time for one modern classic at the mo!!
Still, I do like them.
To be honest, any aero would get a look from me, so maybe I should stick to my original plan of 9k or 9-5. I'd even go for a c900 but with my recent 944 purchase I think I only have time for one modern classic at the mo!!
Perhaps it's worth looking out for one that has had the basic bracing & suspension mods then. Still amazes me that GM could get it that wrong, especially for a 'performance' car.
Couple of other things, does the bulkhead cracking effect all models or did Saab revise anything to help prevent the problem on the later ones? Also, I've seen a couple with minor rust on rear arches, is this common? If so, is it cosmetic or do the inner arches rust as well?
Couple of other things, does the bulkhead cracking effect all models or did Saab revise anything to help prevent the problem on the later ones? Also, I've seen a couple with minor rust on rear arches, is this common? If so, is it cosmetic or do the inner arches rust as well?
Well - it's an itch o'd like to scratch, but not sure if I'll get chance just yet - I'm more than likely going to go down the estate route.
FA - sounds good, I can imagine it was just as quick as your 944 in a straight line, although, did the 944 not have the legs on the 9-3 at higher speeds? You had a 220 Turbo, if I recall?
Dai - my brother has had a couple of 9-3 ss Aero's, they represent good value, but interior quality is poor imo.
FA - sounds good, I can imagine it was just as quick as your 944 in a straight line, although, did the 944 not have the legs on the 9-3 at higher speeds? You had a 220 Turbo, if I recall?
Dai - my brother has had a couple of 9-3 ss Aero's, they represent good value, but interior quality is poor imo.
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