Excess noun An amount that is more than is needed, expected, or acceptable. I question the 'acceptable' part, but excess possibly describes the last few weeks with the 9-5 very accurately.

What's been done? Performance first, an amazing handcrafted stainless steel 3" downpipe by APH Performance together with a Jetex full system exhaust has been fitted, a DO88 Intercooler, intake pipes and all hoses, a BSR performance filter, Abbott Racing top strut brace and a Stage 4 ECU by the very talented Karl at Noobtune all lovingly installed by the guys at Malcolm Miles (again).

Having jumped straight into Stage 4 rather than staggering the upgrades, you realise the shear change in power and driving ability of the Aero, together with the Bilstein B8 shocks and MapTun springs, the 19" Turbo X alloys and the Pirelli P Zeros, it becomes the sports saloon it always had the potential be.

Producing around 300hp, the power delivery is smile inducing, put your foot down in 3rd and you'll easily get those 19" wheels upfront spinning briefly before grabbing control and surging forward. The 9-5 in contrast to my old HOT Aero, doesn't feel as out of control, it handles the extra power admirably, it gives you the reassurance to really push it to the limit and make the most of every kind of journey.

Inside, things are changing too, the early 9-5 Aero leather, although beautiful quality, does not have the structure or support of the later Aeros, I've managed to source an immaculate 2 tone Anniversary leather interior for a 2007 model, happy to stick with manual operation, the transplant has been seamless, the seatbelt warning light still does its thing, and even the 3 stage roller works perfectly for the heated seats, they really have lifted the interior to the next level - the ultimate spec for a 1st generation 9-5 Aero in my opinion.

Next stop, some subtle cosmetic work to bring the 9-5 back to glory.