1997 SAAB 9000 Aero Turbo 2.3 petrol
Summary:
Love at first sight. Luxury, performance, and quality in one car
Faults:
The only thing I replaced were the front engine mounts. At 120,000 km, I swapped them for polyurethane ones, which guaranteed greater durability.
The gearshift lever's retaining ring wears out. To prevent this, it's advisable to use fourth or third gear instead of fifth for overtaking; this helps preserve the gearbox.
The clutch tended to squeal; I adjusted it without needing to replace it.
Aside from proper maintenance, the car remained practically unchanged until I sold it.
General Comments:
For those seeking comfort, performance, speed and reliability, the 9000 Aero is a very interesting option, and even today it would have handling levels that meet current standards.
The Saab Aero has almost everything imaginable in terms of equipment. The cabin exudes comfort, the scent of leather, lacquered wood trim, aeronautical instruments, a multifunction trip computer, and dual airbags (although forget about a glove compartment; you'll have to distribute your belongings in different areas because it doesn't have one).
Besides being powerful, the engine is not very fuel-efficient, managing with 6.4 liters per 100 kilometers at a constant 90 km/h in 5th gear and 7.71 liters at 120 km/h under the same conditions. This results in lower fuel consumption and greater flexibility, something remarkable in a 2.3-liter, 225-hp turbo engine that could have sluggish characteristics at low revs.
The car's lines don't differ from those of its predecessors and continue to reflect the characteristics of the Fiat Croma, the platform from which it is derived, with the necessary modifications. The driving position is almost perfect, but the seat, at its lowest point, is somewhat high, and the steering column only adjusts telescopically, not for height. Interior space is excellent, but due to the anatomical shape of the rear upholstery, a potential fifth passenger won't be as comfortable as they should be. Visibility is good, except to the rear three-quarters. Parking is hampered by the high back of the right seat, and rearward visibility is limited by the characteristics of a 2.5-box car.
The climate control is flawless and very simple; just select the temperature in "Auto" (automatic) mode and that's it. Overall, the road handling is good, without any issues, and the driving experience is pleasant and easy. The comfort and finish are typical of a Saab. It's a high-end car, well-built without any glaring flaws, although there is some internal noise (vibrations from the plastics) when driving on uneven cobblestones.
Without a doubt, it is one of the best and most advanced sedans of the late 90s, fully adaptable to today's roads and driving.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 19th December, 2025
26th Jul 2012, 18:22
Now nearly reached 240000 km, and the car still runs as a train. No new problems, and the earlier problem with the central locking is now solved with a new ECU/relay.