Is the 9-5 best bang for buck?

[alberto balsalm]

Hi All,

I'm looking to buy a Saab for less than $5,000. I want a car with good power and potential for light modding. I'm thinking a 9-5 Aero 2002+ w/ manual tranny is the way to go. Before I make any commitments, I wanted to pick some expert brains. The 9-5 Aero has the most horsepower, correct?

Has to be turbo, manual

Thanks!!

[jcm]

Read Stickys "new to forum" and "changes to 9-5 throughout the years" under the tab you posted under. You may also want to look in the tab below the 9-5 workshop "Performance mods & tuning" to observe what others have done.

Yes to Aero but you may find it easier to get a lower mileage car to modify for better resale value. This just opens up the market a little more for you. You'll want to have a reserve fund as things break. Last, mechanical ability certainly helps.

Include questions about synthitic oil usage and oil pan pick-up screen to sellers. Research this in FAQ's. If you don't get clear good answers be prepared for engine loss.

These are wonderful cars. Good luck with your search.

[alberto balsalm]

Okay, I'll read the stickies
Thanks for the tidbits

[inteller]

it might be hard to get an Aero for under $5k unless it has a pile of miles on it, but you could get a decent one in the 7k range I bet.

[QSaab]

You can also put Aero parts on a non-aero SAAB, my 99 9-5 has an Aero turbo and I will be putting an Aero clutch in this weekend since the stocker gave up with 18psi.

[alberto balsalm]

What are your thoughts on these?
http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/ctd/2875980438.html
http://newlondon.craigslist.org/cto/2867696500.html

[alberto balsalm]

Originally Posted by inteller

it might be hard to get an Aero for under $5k unless it has a pile of miles on it, but you could get a decent one in the 7k range I bet.

What about these?
http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/ctd/2875980438.html
http://newlondon.craigslist.org/cto/2867696500.html

[Norm95]

An Aero just sold on eBay for $3700. Crazy low price! You can find "mechanic specials" below $2000.

[alberto balsalm]

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/ctd/2875980438.html
http://newlondon.craigslist.org/cto/2867696500.html
?

[QSaab]

Never know what you're getting into with a "mechanic's special" though sometimes there is more than meets the eye.

[jcm]

Hard to find an 02 Aero with only 69K miles. Too bad it's an auto as you want a stick. You'll need to widen your search east for more options. BTW, the 02 is the first year to have the front cover integrated with the grill for a newer look.

http://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/ctd/2875835507.html

[Rarelibra]

Not that I'm preferential, but the Arc is an Aero in disguise. And with light modding, well...

[alberto balsalm]

Originally Posted by jcm

Hard to find an 02 Aero with only 69K miles. Too bad it's an auto as you want a stick. You'll need to widen your search east for more options. BTW, the 02 is the first year to have the front cover integrated with the grill for a newer look.

http://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/ctd/2875835507.html

I saw that. Too bad it's an auto. It's close too. I may think about it. I have some time to look so maybe I'll just keep searching.