Made in Sweden, the Gen 1 Saab 95 had a purity of design the later models lost a little, this particular Saab belonged to a cast member from Gangs of London and her partner who had planned on driving it back to Montenegro when they relocated, but as the description says, disaster struck and the Saab was left standing when the oil cooler hose burst and they had no time to have it fixed before leaving.

Despite the oil cooler and it having a number of minor dents, it looked exceptionally clean and the interior showed little sign of wear for it's 22 year life. Rather than my usual full blown rescues, I wanted to attempt one on a smaller budget, a more sensibly priced Gen 1 Aero for an individual daily driver; less to worry about and more time spent enjoying it.

Following a rigorous maintenance check by Malcolm Miles Saab Specialists, a new oil cooler and pipes where fitted, together with numerous perished hoses, the sump was dropped and cleaned, gaskets changed together with engine and gearbox oil, filters and fluids. The brakes had also seen better days so it had new discs and pads all round. Once we'd got it all running beautifully again and a new MOT passed (it's not failed an MOT once in 22 years), Karl at NoobTune did a Stage 1 remap offering a rewarding 275hp, which compliments the auto box to perfection.

It obviously couldn't go without some aesthetic modifications, so a set of lower and stiffer Abbott Racing springs where fitted together with a gorgeous set of 19" VXR alloy wheels, this has transformed the look of the Aero and has given it the perfect balance of stance, handling and comfort. A bespoke mesh grille was commissioned for the front, whilst a discreet boot lip was added to the rear, the only other visual difference is the addition of a rather unique Hirsch rear exhaust box and tailpipe. This was taken from an older 9-3 project and adapted to fit, the scale and proportions are perfect for the 9-5 Aero bumper aperture.

As it had a minor dent in the rear arch, I took the opportunity to cut out the base of the arch at the same time to prevent future corrosion, this was then resprayed together with the filler cap, passenger front wing, lower front spoiler and boot lip. The paintwork is not perfect, and has age related chips and scratches, but overall, it presents beautifully and as I'd mentioned before, great for an everyday driver.

After a number of long road trips, the latest being a 250 mile drive to the Peak District, I'm always in awe of how well these Gen 1 Aeros drive. They give you a sense of both security and pride in equal measure, they feel robust and reliable, doing everything you ask it too without fuss. Stop at a petrol station and you'll often get a nod of respect from someone, they just command attention. This one averaged close to 30mpg on my trip, and that's a mix of fast (too fast) motorway and county roads. Benefitting from the Prestige leather seats, you not only get heated and electric but the ever inspirational cooling too, the rears seats are even heated, everything works as it should, all electrics, all pixels and the upgraded AS3 Harman Kardon audio is still impressive today.

As a sensibly priced Aero it doesn't cover what I've spent on it to rescue, but I loved the idea of a recession rescue, one that is both affordable and ready to outlast any modern car and at the same time, give that individuality and feeling only a Saab can give. It's got elements that could still be worked on if you're after 'perfect' but who really cares, enjoy its idiosyncrasies and its retro appeal.

Essentials
Saab 95 Aero Automatic
2000
147,000 Miles
MOT August 2023
12 previous owners (Long story)
V5C / Owners Manual / Single Key

SOLD

WORKS LIST

Mechanical
Complete service including sump drop, gaskets, filters, oil
New discs and pads
Abbott Racing springs (30mm lower stance)
Late model Aero wiper arms and blades
Noob Tune Stage 1 / 275hp

Cosmetic
Rear arch bases cutout and welded
Front Aero bib removed, resprayed and reattached
Rare boot lip spoiler
Bespoke chrome grille with black anodised mesh
Full satin light ash dashboard
19" VXR alloy wheels