"AM3R" (AM3R)
06/24/2014 at 16:48 • Filed to: None
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"AM3R" (AM3R)
06/24/2014 at 16:48 • Filed to: None | 1
| 17 |
This 2000 Saab 9-5 is a really low mileage example with only 80k on it. Does it's $3,695 price make it a bargain? I sure think so. I'm not too well versed on Saabs of this era, someone tell me more about these reliability wise and hoonability wise.
http://m.autotrader.com/vdp.html?id=37…
505Turbeaux
> AM3R
06/24/2014 at 16:53 |
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nice car, average price, maybe a little on the high side for me. Not the greatest whips, but better with the turbo at least than the V6. Look for service records
SantaRita
> AM3R
06/24/2014 at 17:06 |
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typically reliable cars, not as nimble as the 9-3. if you ever get a saab without a I4 turbo, you're just doing it wrong. If you can, swing for an aero/viggen trim, it has the big turbo and its really fun and stupid quick.
the best part about saabs is that their tuning is open srouce. for abotu 100$ you can buy the cable and 'chip' it yourself.
I had my 97 9000 Aero up form 225hp to around 300.
Carl (@stuffcarlsays)
> AM3R
06/24/2014 at 17:46 |
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Best car I ever owned was a 1999 9-5 SE with the 4-banger and 5-speed. Super reliable, just make sure all the maintenance has been done on time. GT-17 turbochargers are known for failing around 120k, shown by a puff of blue smoke on startup - easily replaced by the uprated TD-04 from the Aero model.
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AM3R
> SantaRita
06/24/2014 at 20:41 |
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Ah you answered my most important question: how tunable are they?
I currently drive an E90 328i, and hearing the insane gains that 335i owners are getting thru minor mods really makes forced induction look more attractive.
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AM3R
> Carl (@stuffcarlsays)
06/24/2014 at 20:42 |
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this would just be a toy for me, I already have a DD. Good to hear easy gains are out there. Glad to hear they are reliable, any weak points I should look out for?
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Carl (@stuffcarlsays)
> AM3R
06/24/2014 at 21:21 |
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Ignition cassettes fail every 75k, head gasket around 250k, info display loses pixels, suspension bushings around 200k, rear shocks around 150k, bases of the c-pillars at the rear doors can rust depending on the market, climate control blend door motor linkages are a known weakness but there are repair kits
sellphones2493
> AM3R
06/24/2014 at 22:44 |
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Something that I have trouble remembering and grasping is the fact that 2000 was 14 years ago - that Saab is pretty much getting ready for it's Quinceańera. While they may be reliable or not, a fair amount of components will need attention just due to sheer age.
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AM3R
> sellphones2493
06/25/2014 at 00:52 |
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yeah I already imagine that the suspension would have to be overhauled. Buying a car this old will definitely require a little work, no matter how clean the car.
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SantaRita
> AM3R
06/25/2014 at 09:47 |
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I'll put it to you like this, at seven years old with the stock tune my car was as fast as a 2004 mustang GT from standstill and on the highway. the 9-5 was just as fast ...."The B235R engine of the 9-5 Aero was capable of providing immense torque and acceleration-wise outperformed the Porsche 911 Turbo of the same era from 40-90 mph."
Turbo torque is a huge ever-flowing wave that starts around 2000rpm. you wont look back nor regret it. You may regret not getting the big turbo car or aero...the actual internal/motor differences stopped at the turbo and the ecu flash...very easy to get those. (but brakes, suspension body, interior, radio are nicer on the big turbo car too).
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SantaRita
> AM3R
06/25/2014 at 09:55 |
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on any turbo car, replacing the vacuum/boost lines with silicone are a nice first-get-to know you kind of service. huge time saver ,and sometimes you can find 50 hp leaking out in there.
I'd look over all the rubber...bushings, motor mounts...you'll find it's weak spots after some miles.
fresh oil, air filter and premium fuel is much more important to a boosted car, especially new to you. change the oil out for something quality and drain it across a magnet. the cabin air filter is a cheap one to replace and usually gets rid of previous owner odors.
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SantaRita
> AM3R
06/25/2014 at 09:57 |
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also just a note..my 225hp saab would eat my 220hp audi as a light snack. not even in the ballpark on acceleration. the saabs are designed to be quick but more long-legged cars than stoplight city cars like a GTI...dont get me wrong it's fast all over...it's just that you'll find yourself with supremely ample power at 70mph+
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SantaRita
> AM3R
06/25/2014 at 10:14 |
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Let me save you months of searching...
go here, print it , read it :
https://www.dropbox.com/s/gog6dlt9zjjm…
software is here:
http://forum.ecuproject.com/showthread.php…
This is the wire you will need, you can build a BDM cable, but it's a HUGE pita when programming. with CANUSB...i was switching my tune at stoplights... http://www.can232.com/?page_id=16
at that point you're a strand of copper & a few mouse clicks form more power for about 140$ invested, Put the T04 turbo instead and you're into all new levels of top-end boost.
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AM3R
> SantaRita
06/25/2014 at 10:26 |
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Thank you for all the help! You must really love your saab. This saab may make a great toy/weekend warrior for me.. I'm thinking about checking it out later today (weather permitting). Only thing I don't like about it is the dealership. Not exactly a reputable place.
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SantaRita
> AM3R
06/25/2014 at 10:29 |
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Haha, i did love that car. I still miss it and it's still a legend among my passengers.
http://www.carlustblog.com/2012/02/saab-9…
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AM3R
> SantaRita
06/25/2014 at 10:50 |
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That was a good read! I'm definitely getting more and more anxious to check this car out. I've been dying to get back into a 3 pedal car.
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sellphones2493
> AM3R
06/25/2014 at 19:22 |
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Here's an Autocheck. Good luck!
http://www.autoauctionofsandiego.com/misc/auto-repo…
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AM3R
> sellphones2493
06/25/2014 at 21:41 |
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Thanks pal! Thunderstorms today are gonna make me have to wait til tomorrow to check it out. This would make an amazing toy/weekender.