1987 SAAB 9000 Turbo review from North America

Alternator failed shortly after purchase, replaced with a rebuilt unit from ebay for $20; only took 2 hours.

Brakes, replaced with Brembo rotors and new pads for $100, took 45 minutes.

New ACC belt--failed because of alternator.

Exhaust broke at resonator, more a result of a cheap aftermarket exhaust put on the car by PO.

What can I say, this is an old warrior that just keeps fighting. I've owned many cars despite my young age; three Saabs, two Porsches, and a Subaru. This is currently my winter car, the Porsche goes into storage. More reliable than my previous Saabs, but it was also better cared for.

The negative side of the car is that as it has aged the handling has softened--worn out shocks and such. What makes up for that is the blast of power from the turbo. I have already performed the APC modification for about 13 psi and the car is now as fast as my 944 Turbo. Absence of wheel hop is nice too. Somewhat notchy H-gate and a stiff clutch are normally expected only of a sports car.

Definitely a car for those who like something unique. Tons of space to carry things, and if some punk in a Honda pulls up to race...well, let's just say that 1/4 throttle takes care of most cars.

Oh, and one more thing- I bought a Subaru Loyale thinking it would be more economical and cheaper on parts. All that car did was be horribly slow, break often, and roll morbidly. The 4 wheel drive was the only reedeeming factor. This car is better in every aspect. I would venture to say this car is superior to the E30, if RWD handling isn't ones forte.