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.

Faults:

The transmission failed due to lack of maintenance; replaced with a quality used part for 1800AUD.

Replaced radiator, which had cracked. 300 dollars for the part, and I fitted it myself.

I ended up replacing the car, because when I took it into get it serviced, they gave me a list of serious issues, including steering rack issues, which would have cost double to repair what the car was worth.

Saabs are generally reliable cars, but they do need regular servicing, otherwise lots of small things will crop up. Mechanics are hesitant to work on them, because they are fiddly to work on, so it is worth your money to go to a specialist or find a good private mechanic.

People who say Saabs are unreliable cars are wrong. However maintenance can be expensive.

General Comments:

I bought this vehicle because my previous car had fallen apart due to high kms and old age.

This vehicle was purchased for 1000 dollars. When I bought it, I was expecting a cheap car, and considering that it only left me stranded once, I was pretty impressed with it.

I have always liked Saabs, and this was my third one. The low pressure turbo engine wasn't the fastest thing in the world, but it was far from slow. It would easily take on local cars such as Commodores and Falcons off the line. It was also fantastic for overtaking on the highway.

This car was a bit of a boat handling wise, however it had plenty of grip to go nice and quickly through corners.

Saab build quality has always been very good, and this one was no exception. The carpet was soft, and the leather seats were very comfortable.

The road noise was great until you hit 100, then there would be a constant wind buffering noise. I presume the seals on the vehicle had perished, because I had driven an older model and it was quiet as a mouse. It is also a car designed in the mid 80s. For such an old design, it has dated very well.

If you get a good model and have it inspected by a mechanic, and are on top of your maintenance, then you will have a great euro luxury car. The 9000 is much better than the later 95 (General Motors crap). Just be careful of the ones that haven't been looked after when you go buying one.