As our 9-5s age, the strong examples get stronger and the weak weaker, often ending up as parts donors. The 80% “in the middle” eventually go one way or the other, bolstering the old adage of survival of the fittest.

“Stronger” is often a result of us enthusiasts actively searching for and picking out parts that were removed by the GM penny pinchers over the years, or parts that were originally available as accessories, but are now few and far between. Sometimes these parts are items or features that most of us didn’t know existed, but when we realise there is such a thing, we want them! Rear swing arm chip-guards, saloon (sedan) rear sun blind, estate (wagon) sliding boot floor or the subject of this writeup: front centre arm rest can / cup holders.

Originally available as an accessory from the dealership (rather than being included in a factory-build), these useful holders simply clip into place using the existing holes in the centre console underneath the centre arm rest. They will fit all 9-5s 1998-2010 and are especially useful for storing smaller items such as coins and sweets, whilst still granting space underneath and alongside. With a cup or can in the holder, the arm rest needs to remain in the vertical position, which is exactly what the metal clip under the arm rest serves to do.

Once again SAAB superfan James has decided to do some incredible cloning work. He has sourced a NOS (new old stock) holder from Denmark of all places and used this master to create a silicon mould, subsequently allowing a polyurethane copy to be cast. The result is geometrically identical reproductions and some happier 9-5 owners.

James is producing a limited run of up to fifty examples. These are available for £40 each plus post. Parts can be sent worldwide, with postage cost being £5 within the UK, £15 within Europe and £20 worldwide. Group buys (and therefore combined postage) are actively encouraged!

James can be contacted via email or on the UKSAABS forum (username jamesvey)