MapTuner Nano NX3

January 8, 2026 Eleven

One of my current Saab rescues, is the 2005 9-5 2.3t Vector, I can't deny my fondness for the Smoke Beige Metallic saloon, it's one of my all time favourite Saabs, and there's not many of them around in this condition. Add to that, it's only ever had one owner, it's got a lovely specification, and also low miles, but it had one obvious flaw - not having the higher output Turbo of the Aero.

Alongside various maintenance required, it's also had the larger Mitsubishi TD04 Turbo installed, this immediately takes it to the same engine setup as the standard Aero besides the mapping of the ECU; the standard Vector was 185hp, whilst the standard Aero was 250hp.

However, thanks to the support and generosity of MapTun, Sweden, they sent over one of their clever MapTuner Nano NX3 units, together with their connecting cable for me to try. I've been wanting to try one of their maps for a while now, and this gave me the perfect opportunity. For this particular 9-5, I wanted a subtle remap to enhance, rather than dynamically change its overall driving characteristics; it's an auto gearbox twinned with the Saab lowered performance suspension, so a lovely, comfortable cruiser, the Nano NX3 with the Stage 1 TD04 - 270 Hp/380 Nm map was exactly what the car needed.

Install was as simple as MapTun described, and as long as you have a decent wifi signal near the car when you perform the upgrade, it works flawlessly. I installed the accompanying app on my iPhone, paired that with the NX3, downloaded the relevant TD04 270hp file and prepared the car for the upgrade. We had to disconnect a few fuses turn all electrics off, and keep the battery on charge during the process. Thomas at MapTun was absolutely fantastic at being on hand for a few 'user errors' and advice along the way, but within 45 minutes, the file was installed and the Saab ready to test drive.

Immediate feedback - it felt quick, Stage 1 Aero quick, on acceleration, the new TD004 boosts instantly and the gear change clean and smooth; I never tend to hold the pedal to the floor in the autos, as they react beautifully to steady acceleration, building power through gears, rather than kicking down and screaming.

I've driven the 9-5 for a good 500 miles now, and been hugely impressed with the remap. I will be trying the various diagnostics and readings available on the app in the coming weeks, but wanted to share some initial thoughts. As less and less decent Aeros are available, this is an exceptionally viable way of transforming a Vector 2.3t into an Aero.

Thanks go out to Jason Miles for his endless wisdom on these Saabs, and Thomas at MapTun for his generosity and support. I've been hugely impressed by MapTun and their Saab products, they continue to invest in the research and development of many more products for our Saabs, it's people and companies like MapTun that genuinely make Saab ownership viable, their dedication to the brand is hugely appreciated my myself and many other global owners; please keep going.

Saab Week

December 16, 2025 Eleven

Thanks to the endless help and guidance of my friend, Jason Miles; a genuine Saab genius, we’ve spent an entire week going through a works list for the Saabs.

I currently have 4, all at various stages and all needing Jason's attention. They have varying degrees of work required, some small, standard maintenance and routine, others more transformational.

Saab 9-5 Sportwagon

This was last year's complete build, the fantastic Saab 9-5 Sportwagon, which has been a mainstay of my collection, and has performed impeccably all year. It's covered around 4,000 miles, and just oozes quality and style. Because of the amount of work done to this car already, it really didn't need much, a service with fresh oil and filters, and a new battery. Perfection restored.

Saab 9-5 2.3 Vector

This is the most recent addition, a Smoked Beige Metallic saloon with a gorgeous specification, but being a Vector Sport, only came with 185hp and the smaller Garret Turbo.

My plan is to keep the relaxed, comfortable personality of this Saab, with it's Sport leather and fabric interior, optional sunroof and automatic gearbox, but give it enough subtle modifications to give it standout; a little more Aero.

We've set about upgrading to Aero spec mechanics with a Mitsubishi TD04 and a MapTun Stage 1 TD04 map, taking it to a very stealthy 270hp. It’s a huge increase from the standard 185hp, and totally transforms the driving dynamics of the 9-5. I'll be featuring the MapTuner Nano NX3 in a separate post soon.

Other work has included:
Sump drop
Full service
Original Saab DI pack
NGK Performance plugs
All new discs and pads
Polyflex torque rod gearbox to engine bush
Boot pistons
Hirsch classic 18" 6 spoke alloys and Michelin PS4 tyres
Hirsch front mesh grille
BlueSaab bluethtooth module

Saab 9-3 HOT Aero

The gorgeous Merlot Red Aero convertible has been patiently waiting for attention since purchasing it back in August, as although the bodywork and mechanics are immaculate, the handling, suspension and braking had been left untouched. The shocks were in a very poor state and little recovery left in them, the rear brakes were pretty much metal on metal, and numerous knocks and noises needed identifying and corrected.

For peace of mind, we've also dropped and cleaned the sump, and done a full oil and filter service, and besides needing an Air Con regas, it's running beautifully, and feels very tight again.

Sump drop
Oil and filter service
Bilstien B8 shocks
Eibach lowering springs
Twin rear torsion bars
Rear discs and pads
Abbott Cobra pipe

Saab 9000 Aero

Again, this one's been around for a few months now, an apart from an annoying HOT or COLD ACC system, it's been an absolute joy to own and drive. Whenever I have a manual 9000 Aero, I realise just how epic they are, underrated compared to the iconic 900, but in my opinion, a far, far better car. We've been on the hunt for a better stainless exhaust system to pair with the existing Abbott 3" downpipe, it needs the tyres replacing sit currently has the wrong profile fitted, and we've replaced the interior and exterior temperature sensors.

It's only done a few extra thousand miles since the last oil change, so that will be a job for the new year.

Overall, the Saabs are in a good place now, the 9-5 will be heading for bodywork in the new year, but after that, I'll be adding a few to Aeroriginal for sale, and see what new Saabs appear in 2026. I can't thank Jason Miles enough for helping out, his Saab knowledge is an absolute godsend, and allows me continue to rescue and modify these amazing cars for the future.

The Hidden Costs

November 20, 2025 Eleven

Since 2011, I’ve been quietly rescuing Saabs, mainly the 9-5, but also 9-3 and 9000, I’ve occasionally done a quick ‘man maths’ sum of what I’ve spent on them, and let’s just say, it’s absolutely not a financially sound model. But what I haven’t done, is add in all of the little hidden costs that make each Saab feel properly sorted, so as I begin work on the new Vector Sport, I thought I’d attempt to list all of them - no stone unturned.

After the first few drives, and a good clean, you feel and notice things that need attention, small details most garages and sellers tend to ignore, the list isn’t long (yet), but you can easily see how they all add up:

Jetex stainless steel exhaust £419.00
Genuine Saab DI Pack £185.00
Genuine Saab boot decal £56.00
NGK Performance plugs £18.00
Hydraulic boot pistons £28.00
Auto Gear selector sliding £34.00
Replacement window switch unit £50.00
SaabBlue V6 Bluetooth module £80.00

That’s already £870 spent, and really on things most people generally won’t notice, they’ll feel it in the way it drives; it won’t feel tired or old, it’ll just feel like a Saab should - confident and reassuring. Most of my rescues start with a list like this, the next stages will be sorting the knocking out underneath, the bushes and drop links will need changing, the sump will be dropped for precaution with new gasket, fresh oil and filters.

I’ll do my best to keep a note of these hidden costs as work progresses, but it’s just so easy to underestimate the effort and expense that goes in to keeping these Saabs well maintained and enjoyable to own and drive. They truly are exceptional cars, and 20 years on, feel more rewarding than most modern cars, they just need a little more care.

The Comfort Edition

November 18, 2025 Eleven

A few weeks ago, the new 9-5 Smoke Beige Metallic project car arrived, and it’s a truly intriguing Saab.

Purchased from Williams Automobiles, Bristol in June 2005 by Mr G Ross who kept the 9-5 for the next 20 years, selling it in 2025, it has no previous owners, a full service history and only 99,000 miles, it really is an absolutely wonderful car.

One of the very last of the shark tooth 9-5 to be manufactured, and arguably the most desirable, but it’s a bit of an enigma, it has an Aero level spec, and yet some options are missing.

It’s a Vector Sport 2.3t saloon, and options include sunroof, folding mirrors, bi-xenon lights, rain sensors, Harmon Kardon AS3 with Sat Nav and the Aero performance suspension.

It comes with the exceptionally comfortable, Obsidian Black Sport Leather / Apollo textile seats, but unheated, my initial thoughts were to add the full leather, but I’m already in love with how quiet and comfortable the interior is. It also has the ashtray delete; a rare option I haven’t often had in previous 9-5’s.

Whilst the interior is almost immaculate, the Smoke Beige paintwork has a few marks and scratches, the notorious rear arch bases are superb, and only require the lightest of attention, the front and rear bumpers need repainting, as does the bonnet, it needs new badges and a professional detail, but overall, is exceptionally honest.

It’ll get the larger TD04 added and stage 1 map, allowing it to benefit from the Aero performance, a new stainless exhaust system and upgraded brakes. I’m rather sold on the wonderfully comfortable drive enhanced by the super smooth auto gearbox, so the suspension might stay standard, but a number of other discreet modifications will make this a rather special 9-5.

Autumn / Winter 2025 Collection

October 21, 2025 Eleven

It's a rare moment I manage to have a clear driveway, but even rarer to get the time to pull out my current 3 Saab collection and take a photo of them together.

At the beginning of the year, I decided to concentrate on a small collection of 3 or 4 of my favourite Saabs, all in Silver, but as ever, the best laid plans never go smoothly. I accidentally purchased my original 9-3 TTiD Hirsch back, which needed more work than I expected, but once sorted, that sold exceptionally quickly.

After that, things got back on track, and I found my 1998 Silver 9000 Aero, this went nicely alongside my modified 2010 Silver 9-5 Aero Sportwagon. The search then began for a OG 9-3 convertible, again, preferably in Silver and Aero spec, a few came along, but none were quite right, then the unexpected happened, a stunning 2003 Aero convertible in Merlot Red with Sand leather interior; this rare specification seemed too good to turn down, so it quickly joined the collection.

I'm a bit of a sucker for original Saab brochures, and it has recently pushed me toward this idea of all Silver Saabs, the iconic 9000 Aero was featured in Silver, as was the 9-5 Sportwagon, and although the 9-3 convertible was generally shown in the darker Graphite Grey, it looks exceptional in a matching Silver too. The current lineup isn't all Silver as I'd planned, but my god, the Merlot Red convertible is a standout colour, so we'll allow that for now.

What's missing? Ideally an 04 / 05 9-5 Aero saloon, and one day, another classic T16S maybe, but for now, these 3 are keeping me busy.

Embracing the Seasons

October 14, 2025 Eleven

It’s been almost a year since the build on the 9-5 Sportwagon happened, a year of pure enjoyment and of driving this fantastic Saab. I’ve had a long standing admiration for the 9-5, but the earlier generation, not necessarily this specific model year. However, after a number of discussions over a suitable platform wagon for a major modified build, a late 2010 manual, Turbo Edition Sportwagon became the ultimate choice.

Being one of the last Saab 9-5 wagons to ever be manufactured was one bonus, but also benefitting from a host of bin end parts to create the Turbo Edition also helped; audio upgrade with sat nav, perforated heated seats, folding mirrors, Hirsch satin grille surrounds plus all of the usual Aero specification, gives it a real edge over other options.

It’s had a year to settle in to its new guise, an utterly sorted sleeper that just enhances and showcases how wonderful these Saab 9-5’s truly are. When driving, it’s easy to forget you’re in an exceptionally practical estate car, capable of whisking a family along at a very rapid pace, all in Saab’s legendary comfort. Not only that, but the agile handling is an absolute joy, especially with the addition of the limited slip diff.

I tend to drive all of my cars throughout the year, I don’t have a specific choice for Autumn / Winter, and instead, tend to keep them all in service, but the Saabs have a special place for me. The colder months tend to evoke thoughts of long drives with a back drop of wonderful Autumn colours and light, icy Winter landscapes that remind me of it’s Nordic heritage, and the comforting embrace of Saab’s warming interior.

Rare Silver

June 28, 2025 Eleven

It’s been a busy week for Saab vs; I watched the 9-3 TTiD Hirsch drive off with its new owner on Monday, and today, a new addition took its place.

The 9000 Aero has always had a very special place in my heart, and genuinely nice ones are getting a rather rare sight on UK roads, especially manuals. This particular late model 98 Aero was offered to me a few years back, but at the time, I’d already got 3 Saabs, so had to decline. Recently however, a fellow Saabist was relocating back to California, and had to let his precious 9000 go, it turned out to be the very same car.

I’m quickly finding out about its history, and at some point, it had been left standing for a number of years. Now luckily rescued and fighting its way back to life, it’s had a top end rebuild with new gasket set and hardware, a new TD04 Turbo, water pump, a beautifully ported throttle housing, and a healthy stage 3 map by the Saab Clinic. It’s reportedly running around 320hp, and from an initial drive, feels nice and lively.

It’s also benefitted from some excellent new metal fabrication underneath, new front wings, new windscreen and rubber whilst some small areas of rust were cut out and fixed on the A pillars. From a distance, the sparkling Silver paintwork looks excellent, and really is for its age, but the colour matching is a little out, and both bumpers could do with another full refurbishment and paint to make it really special.

Some 9000 interiors are looking worse for wear now, but this has had plenty of care and attention and feels exceptionally clean, the leather Aero seats; some of Saabs finest designs, are wonderfully supple and supportive, and I’m told the heating works nicely still too. The original tape unit is still in place, and with luck, I’ll be fitting further classic 9000 audio to it, although believe there is some issue with the wiring and fuses blowing, but I’m sure we’ll be able to find out why eventually.

It’s covered 250,000 miles, but with much work, feels tight and pretty well sorted, although it’ll need a longer test drive to reveal any areas that might need some attention. These Saab 9000 Aeros are quickly gaining the respect and attention I’ve always though they deserved, I’ve always maintained, I feel they’re equally as good as the classic 900, and might even be a better driver’s car, either way, they’re getting rare, and truly deserve to be rescued and enjoyed for many years to come.

Pure Saab Joy

June 16, 2025 Eleven

It seems fitting to do a bit of an update on the Snow Silver 9-5 Sportwagon, as it’s been 6 months since our major build happened, and a few thousand miles of pure Saab driving pleasure since. My initial feeling was one of total joy, joy at the way the 9-5 felt again, obviously being stage 5 tuned meant that if felt rather quick, but more than that, it all felt reassuringly honed.

The entire chassis had been tightened up with new drop links, arms and bushes, the suspension upgraded and stance lowered with Bilstein B12s, and the braking also upgraded with a Neo Brothers big brake kit upfront and Saab performance discs and pads on the rear, add the lsd and this had been transformed into an exceptionally capable, fast road wagon with wonderful cornering dynamics.

After transplanting the entire engine set up from the highly modified donor Aero, we’d also aimed to transfer the existing map. However, after meeting Karl from NoobTune, he’d advised dialling it all down a little for drivability, rather than out and out boost. This has proved a wise decision; day to day driving is handled with ease, as is city traffic, but request a bit more excitement and my god, it delivers it and more.

Out on the road, accelerate, and the Turbo needle immediately flies off the dial, a surge of power pulls the wagon in a way you just don’t expect, no hesitation, no lag, just pure torque. The sweet spot is in 3rd and 4th gear and above 3000rpm, under full boost, you can feel the front end lift a little and the Saab does a wonderful job of controlling its urge to drag you left and right, but it’s still a handful, change into 5th and you’re seriously moving along at a rapid pace. Most impressively though, the Saab always feels reassuringly connected to the road, wet and dry, it gives you the confidence to push it more than many other cars I’ve driven.

So far, it’s been without issue, it’s recently flown through an MOT, and has had some interior pampering, the leather has all been cleaned and conditioned, and I’ve fitted another BlueSaab unit, so my entire Spotify playlist can be enjoyed through the Harman Kardon audio, and the air conditioning has been cleaned and re-gassed, so is beautifully cool again.

Although this generation 9-5 isn’t my favourite aesthetically, the Snow Silver Metallic paintwork, and satin grille and light surrounds have quickly endeared themselves to me, the addition of the Turbo X front spoiler, rear roof spoiler and 19” twin spoke alloys have given it the perfect edge, and feels very much OE+. It’s a Saab I’m hugely proud of, and is truly a joy to own and drive.

Winding back time

May 10, 2025 Eleven

You could call this another one of my white elephant Saabs, after all, you can pick up a halfway decent TTiD for £2 - 2.5k. Then again, I don't know of any other one in the UK that came specified with almost the entire Hirsch Performance catalogue, on top of that, I purchased it new back in 2011.

This particular 9-3 Turbo Edition 160 TTiD was in stock at my local Saab dealership; Bond Street, it was not only in my most desirable colour, Carbon Grey Metallic, but had the Infotainment Plus, Bluetooth Integration and Bi-Xenon headlight options. I'd already test driven and discounted the other usual suspects; BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Lexus and had my heart set on the 9-3. With its striking design, individuality and handling, it shone brighter than the others, but it also had one more unique benefit - Hirsch modifications whilst still retaining the factory warranty.

Together with Bond Street, we set about creating a standout Saab 9-3 Hirsch TTiD, and a few months later, we'd transformed the car :

200 hp / 420 Nm map
5 Twin spoke 18 x 8" alloy wheels
Stainless steel dual exhaust system
Rear boot spoiler
Rear dual diffusor
3 piece mesh front grille
Lower mesh front grille
17" 345 mm brake upgrade
Sports suspension
Carbon leather instrument panel
Carbon leather door and glovebox panels
Leather interior handle set
Aluminium pedals

Having inspired the beginning of Saabvs, I kept the 9-3 for 3 years, before upgrading to my next company car, but somehow it remained a bit of a poster car for other Saab and Hirsch fans, and even to this day, I get comments on this unique 9-3. Then, a few months ago, I had the opportunity to buy it back again, as luck would have it, the car had remained intact, and with all Hirsch modifications. It had however, not been particularly well looked after, either mechanically or aesthetically, so work began on giving it some much needed tlc, the bodywork feels tired and will eventually have a light refresh, but firstly, the mechanics had to be done. Once again, a huge thank you to my friend and Saab genius; Jason Miles, who’s patiently done the following work :

Dual mass flywheel
Clutch kit
Slave cylinder
Starter motor
Aux drive belt
Belt tensioner
Tension pully
Front drop links
Oil pick up pipe O ring to oil pump
Flexi front pipe to DPF
Full service and filters
K&N Hi Flow Filter
Bilstein B6 shocks + Eibach Pro Springs
Fully reconditioned Hirsch alloys
Goodyear Eagle F1 225/40/18

This had already made a huge difference to the way the car handles and drives again, it's smooth, torquey and confident, with the 200hp / 420Nm really proving just how capable and economical these TTiD's are. So, with the mechanics covered (for now) we set about changing one huge issue I had with the original car, upgrading the standard Turbo Edition interior to the desirable, premium natural sport leather, full electric and memory interior. It's given the car the final luxurious touch it truly deserved, and feels as good as any other luxury car I can think of.

What has seriously impressed me, is the quality of the Hirsch interior parts, they've worn exceptionally well, showing few signs of the current 122,000 miles, 14 years and 4 extra owners, in fact, apart from a slightly shinier steering wheel and leather handles, if feels factory fresh, especially after a full detail and leather conditioner.

Next up will be the bodywork, the front and rear bumpers need fixing and repainting, there are some signs of light corrosion on the rear arches and numerous scuffs and poor repairs that need addressing, once again, I don't want to aim for perfection, I want it to share it's journey, but it does deserve a light refresh. White elephant? Cost wise, absolutely, I've already spent £2.5 - 3k on it, so currently standing at around £6k investment, but being such a unique Saab, I feel it deserves to be looked after and cherished.

Optional Extras

April 8, 2025 Eleven

Back in 2011, when I first purchased the TTiD, it was a nicely specified car, but as it was new stock at the Saab dealership, rather than an order direct from manufacturer, I wasn't able to add the desirable and far superior Premium natural leather sport interior, 14 years on, and we've retrofitted that option.

After a call out for a full interior, I drove down to Manchester to collect an immaculate set of seats, door cards and ancillary parts required, with the help of my friend and Saab specialist; Jason, we removed the existing manual interior, modified the wiring looms and fitted the fully electric and memory seats. The difference in quality and tactility is worth the effort, and gives the Hirsch TTiD the finishing interior touch it needed.

Although I also have all of the door cards, the existing interior had been fully modified to include the Hirsch leather handles and also the rare carbon leather inserts, so they'll remain.

We also refitted the fully refurbished Hirsch wheels and new Goodyear Eagle tyres, together with a set of 5mm spacers to make the stance more purposeful. The suspension, however, remains a problem, the rear shocks are in poor condition and it seems like the front Hirsch springs have been replaced with standard height ones and have thrown out the handling and balance. A new replacement set of Bilstien shocks and with MapTun or Eibach springs will be fitted together with any mounts and bushes required next.

Now that the mechanical work has all been down, and we've completed the suspension refresh, it'll be going in to rectify the bodywork issues, both front and rear bumpers are poorly painted, and there's some slight corrosion on the rear arches which will need addressing. I've managed to source another Hirsch lower grille that will also replace the existing broken one. Overall though, it's reminded me just how nicely the TTiD performs, it's got impressive torque and the ReAxs 4 wheel steering has always felt wonderfully reassuring and agile. Saab's combined twin turbo technology helps deliver an intelligent driving sensation that feels as fresh today as it did 14 years ago.

Emerald Isle Aero

March 25, 2025 Eleven

Despite having kept this beautiful Aeroriginal rescue sale on the quiet, it has found a new guardian in the most fitting place I could have wished for. It’ll be leaving me to continue its journey over on the Emerald Isle with another Saab devotee.

It’s a hard one to let go of, in part because it’s one of my favourite colour combinations; Green over tan, but also because it’s been a real challenge to get this one to where it is now. Found at a breakers with damage to the front bumper and both side skirts, but lots of signs of being remarkably well cared for in the past.

It was also suffering from a constant oil light at low rpm, and ruined 2 engines in the diagnosis process. We finally replaced pretty much the entire system and has now covered 4000 miles since the rebuild and been absolutely flawless in its performance.

It’s had numerous upgrades along the way, we took another donor car which provided polybushed subframe, Bilstien B12, upgraded brakes, intercooler and a number of other performance mods, we then added a new JT 3” stainless exhaust, Noob Stage 3 map, new alternator, water pump, aux belt, DI pack, plugs, filters and then the wonderful refurbished ALU56 18” alloys finished in satin Anthracite and wrapped with Michelin PS4’s.

The bodywork had the rear dog legs cut out, leaded correctly and repainted, together with new side skirts, the front bumper fixed, front wing and rear spoiler all repainted too. It’s got age related marks and a few small dents, but is remarkably original, so these just add to its story, which I love to retain as much as possible.

The Sand leather interior has been given a detail with Gliptone leather clean and feed, a new walnut dash fitted to replace a slightly cracked one, together with a Hirsch leather steering wheel, a new SID and a BlueSaab Bluetooth module which is an absolute game changer, especially if you want to keep the magical console configuration looking factory spec.

I can’t deny, I’ll be hugely sad to see this one leave tomorrow, I’ve become rather attached to it, I’ve said before, but this generation Aero just feels like home to me, I love the way it feels and drives, I love the reassurance it gives, the individuality and elegance, it’s as at home arriving at a 5 star hotel as it is a local chip shop, it’ll transport you in sublime comfort and safety, and hopefully, it’ll now have the chance to keep going for many more years.

Whilst it’s hard to let it go, it gives me the opportunity to find more Saabs to rescue and enjoy, to create new variations on my ideal Saabs, and to keep more of these amazing cars on the roads for us all to enjoy.

Hirsch Perfection

March 18, 2025 Eleven

When my old 9-3 arrived home a few weeks ago, I was devastated to see the condition on the Hirsch alloys, not only were all 4 badly marked and kerbed, but 2 of them had rather large flat spots - quite honestly, i’m not sure how wheels get in to this condition, but they needed urgent attention.

Luckily, I’d still got a spare from my first ownership back in 2011, it was also damaged, but not to the same level as the worst wheel. I’ve used Perfection for many years and on numerous sets of alloys, so we’ve chosen the best set and fully refurbished, straightened and balanced them again, and as ever, the quality, service and craftsmanship is literally, perfection.

The unmatched tyres have all been replaced with new Goodyear Eagle F1’s and they’re all ready to be fitted back on to the 9-3 when a few more items have been taken care of.

Inspired by the Hirsch Troll R

March 3, 2025 Eleven

Snow Silver Troll R_Landscape-_0004_Layer 9.jpg

Snow Silver Troll R_Landscape-_0005_Layer 8.jpg

As with all of my Saab projects, the design, aesthetics and detailing stages are like the icing on the cake for me. The majority of work is often hidden, the mechanical, handling and braking, all crucial, but mostly hidden from all besides the most eagle eyed Saab aficionados. With the unwavering help and support of my friend and Saab guru; Jason Miles, the Sportwagon has been totally transformed in to an absolutely superbly tight car to drive.

But when those stages are complete and I can begin to add my unique touches to the project, that's when I get most excited. The Hirsch inspired 19" alloys had already been fitted, but there was a lot of work still to do with the overall look. It's now had the front and rear bumpers removed, stripped, repaired and repainted, the entire driver's side has also been sanded down, repaired and repainted to eliminate some terrible work it had had done in the past, and we've added a genuine Saab boot spoiler and carefully added a second aperture to the rear diffuser for the twin Abbott Racing exhaust. The front bumper has had a Saab 9-3 Turbo X lower lip added to just give the front a slightly more purposeful appearance, and kept in factory black to echo the rear diffuser.

I'd previously removed the rear badges, but being such a special project, it seemed to deserve a special designation. Through another Saab enthusiast, I'd managed to get hold of a genuine Hirsch 'Troll R' badge, I don't usually like doing this, unless the specific Saab has some Hirsch provenance, but with 340hp, superb handling, braking and driving dynamics, the Sportwagon has been very much inspired by Hirsch thinking, and also, why not, we all have to have a bit of creative licence and fun with these personal Saab projects.

Cut to Friday last week, a stunning, early Spring day, deep blue skies and the sort of day we've been longing for in the UK for the past few months. A call from the amazing bodywork team at Autofection; who tirelessly help me with my flow of Saab rescues, to say that the Sportwagon was ready for collection - perfect.

Not wanting to waste the opportunity of dry roads, a beautifully clean, Snow Silver Saab and gorgeous weather, I asked my very accommodating neighbour if I could use his exquisite driveway to take a few photos. With ancient trees, dappled sunlight, immaculate gravel and bucolic English setting, I couldn't have asked for a better way to capture the final stages of this project.

To me, it emphasises just how timelessly designed these Saabs are, the satin chrome headlight surrounds subtly balance with the Snow Silver paintwork, making this generation 9-5 feel less polarising, whilst the hyper silver alloys and the satin silver roof bars all add to the beauty of the design. This is a project that has taken a lot of time, effort, funds and thought, but the results make me hugely happy and yet another Saab given a totally new lease of life. (Apologies for the number of photos, I really couldn’t choose my favourites this time).

Green Day

February 18, 2025 Eleven

It's true, for the past month or so, I’ve been a bit preoccupied with the 9-5 Sportwagon project and then the new, old 9-3 arriving, so the Graphite Green Aero has been a little neglected.

I'd excitedly fitted the new BlueSaab Bluetooth unit, so before taking it out for a playlist blast, I thought I’d treat this gorgeous Saab to few hours of pampering and a good clean to get rid of the recent grime and salt from the dirty Winter roads.

I am, of course, utterly biased when it comes to Saabs, especially the older 9-5, but I can't help being amazed at just how well they stand up against modern day alternatives. I'm not a huge fan of overly fussy aesthetics, endless angles and confused lighting, but I still feel this generation 9-5 easily hold their own against arguably far more prestigious cars, I take my own alternatives as examples; the Mercedes S500 and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S for instance, both stunning, but do they make me smile as much as the Saab 9-5, not really.

The One

January 21, 2025 Eleven

“I’m so happy to see this Saab again and back in your ownership.
To me and probably many others, both you and this Saab are icons to the Saab community”

The Saab that inspired me to start Saab vs Scepticism. Back in 2011 Saab was going through some exceptionally uncertain times, I was in the process of looking for a new company car, and decided it might just be the last opportunity I got to walk in to a Saab dealership, and order a brand new car. As it turned out, my thinking was correct, and within months, no new Saabs would ever be available again

Luckily, one of the cars they had immediately available, was their demonstrator - a 9-3 TTiD, the colour and specification suited my needs but it just didn’t have the wow factor I was looking for. The dealership was well known to me, and also had a great reputation for Hirsch conversions, so we sat down and specified a generous list of modifications needed to make it special, that was 14 years ago, I kept it for 4 years and sold it in 2015, last week, I bought it back again.

How did that happen? A Saab acquaintance had sent me a link to a recent ad he’d seen and thought it was my old 9-3, it was. I called the seller - AK Automotive in Amersham, he’d done a lot of research on the Saab, and also used the specification from my website to list the details correctly, he’d also hoped I might see the ad and enquire. After a quick conversation, they kindly delivered the car the following day.

It’s now 10 years older, having covered another 80,000 miles and had a further 4 owners. Initially it felt tired, the Hirsch wheels were not only damaged, but 2 also have flat spots on the outer edges, some paintwork has been done, but there’s further damage to the front bumper and a few other panels. On the positive side, besides the broken lower front grille, every Hirsch item I originally specified is still in remarkable condition.

We’ve since had the Saab on ramps, we’ve identified that the front exhaust pipe is badly leaking, it the sump needs a new oil pick up O ring, the rear suspension adjusting to stop an annoying rattle, and a good service to begin with. It also needs all new matching tyres again, a wheel alignment and the rather dark window tints removing.

After a few hundred miles of driving it again, I’ve realised why I chose it in the first place, the handling is reassuringly responsive thank to all of the modifications, the torque from the Hirsch 200hp and twin Turbo is smile inducing, and the feeling that this is a bit of a special Saab is still there.

If I’m truly honest, I hadn’t realised what this Saab had inspired over the years, not just for myself, but in others too, I’ve had some humbling comments that have made me realise how special Saabs are to many of us, and I feel blessed to be able to share my personal obsession for them through Saab vs Scepticism. Here are just a few of those comments :

“Again, congratulations Paul! It’s very special that you have this exact Saab back again. It instantly takes us back to the time when you started Saab vs. Also very special to think what this car all started. Your blog, many gorgeous Saab pictures, countless moments of inspiration for many fellow Saab enthusiasts, and for me personally eventually a very dear friendship with you for which I’m truly grateful”

“Good to hear that it has made it's way back home into a safe pair of hands. It was pictures of this very 9-3 that inspired the look of my 9-3. I thought it looked absolutely perfect then and still do now. Unfortunately I couldn't get quite as many original Hirsch parts as were specced on your one. Looking forward to future updates and seeing it brought back to its former glory”

“Ah the Titan! It caught my attention and I’ve been reading Saabvs ever since. Great to see!”

Snow Silver Road Trials

January 13, 2025 Eleven

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It’s been a few weeks since the mechanical side of the Snow Silver Sportwagon were completed, and it’s been an absolute pleasure to put it through its paces and do some road testing. Over 1000 miles covered now, and things have settled in beautifully. The forged engine is just sublime, with immediate, effortless power, the rebuilt 19T Turbo helps deliver smile inducing torque and an impressive surge throughout the rpm range, it has silky smooth gear changes thanks to a few internal modifications, and just the right amount of visceral grunt from the twin Abbott exhausts.

The triumph however, is the transformation of the handling, the Bilstien B12 kit, polybushed subframe and rear arms, the larger alloys, subtly wider track, Goodyear F1’s and the upgraded braking deliver a hugely capable car. Add the Quaife limited slip diff, and it actually feels like it drags you around corners, something you don’t usually expect from a superbly comfortable wagon, this really is the essence of a sleeper in my opinion.

We’ve only had a couple of minor issues to overcome, an original coolant hose decided to burst and has now been replaced with another DO88 silicon one, and the map has been reflashed again by Karl at NoobTune to remedy the traction and ABS lights which had been linked to the older generation ECU, it’s running around a healthy 335 - 340hp on a Stage 5, which Karl has specifically tailored to deliver very liveable, everyday power.

Next stage will be the bodywork, both front and rear bumpers to repaint and the driver’s side has some marks I’m just not happy with. These together with a few subtle aesthetic mods will get it to a stage I’m content with, in the meantime, it’s proving hugely capable and coping nicely with the filthy roads and extreme Winter weather.

Project Snow Silver Progress

December 18, 2024 Eleven

It’s been a massive few weeks for the Snow Silver Sportwagon project, and having such a dedicated amount of time on it has meant progress has been rapid. Utmost respect to my friend and Saab guru; Jason Miles for taking this project on, and his attention to detail has been inspirational, if something looked like it might need attention in the future, it’s been done, to future proof the build.

The entire subframe and rear arms got Powerflex Polybushes, the new Bilstien B12 suspension was fitted together with new bump stops followed by the entire, newly fitted brake system from the Nocturne Blue Aero, upgraded front big brakes from Neo Brothers and genuine Saab Sport discs and upgraded pads on the rear and today, the full Abbott 3” stainless exhaust system went back on, including downpipe.

The amount of work that’s gone in to making this 9-5 Sportwagon special is hugely satisfying, one more day and Jason will pretty much have the mechanical side of the project finished, we’ve got to rectify an ABS fault, but other than that, we’ve had the car running and out of the workshop for the first time.

With a quick jet wash of the hidden parts, unseen but just as important, the Snow Silver Saab started to look the part, the suspension had settled down to reveal it’s new stance, and the twin tailpipes look purposefully menacing poking out of the rear bumper.

We put the 18” Team Dynamics wheels on just for a quick shakedown, but these will be replaced by new alloys which have just been clad with Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres to fully embrace the 350hp power and superb torque put through the Quaife LSD.

Next stage will be more aesthetic, the paintwork needs some attention and a few more subtle OE+ mods will be on their way in the new year.

Project Snow Silver. Day I

December 10, 2024 Eleven

We’ve been patiently waiting to start this very exciting project for the past few months, and yesterday, it all began like a hurricane. Several hours in, and the Nocturne Blue 9-5 had been completely disassembled, the modified and performance parts carefully removed, checked and catalogued, and the engine and gearbox ready to be removed the following day.

It’s been a hard decision to not save the Blue Aero, but having covered some 250,000 hard miles, it was exceptionally tired, nearly all panels required some kind of attention, and quite honestly, financially it just didn’t make sense. More importantly though, the beating heart of the car will live on in a new guise, the wonderfully strong engine was fully modified less than 100,000 miles ago, and after many miles covered, has proven it’s worth, it’ll benefit from numerous new ancillary parts, and be reunited with a freshly rebuilt manual gearbox, with LSD, upgraded clutch, new slave cylinder and gaskets.

It’s one less Saab for the world, but we’ve been fastidious with removing the parts that will become spares for the Graphite Green Aero, including switches, SID and heater units, lights and many interior parts have all been put aside for future use.

I’ve been getting a steady request for parts to be sourced and ordered, the new Bilstein B12 kit has arrived, along with new wheels and the ECU has been shipped off the Karl at Noobtune for a new bespoke Stage 5 remap.

As the next few days progress, I’ll attempt to take photos at various stages of the build, I’m truly humbled by Jason’s knowledge of Saabs, and quite honestly, feel this would not have begun without his friendship or belief in my projects. These are not my normal, ‘finished project’ photos, these are moments of the build, captured and enjoyed for their detail, I find a genuine beauty in the deconstructed nature of them, the hundreds and thousands of individual parts that come together to form a single car, in this case, a Saab that continues the journey of two.

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Project Silver Snow

November 23, 2024 Eleven

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Continuing the Winter theme, I thought it was about time to introduce the latest Saabvs project, the Snow Silver Metallic Sportwagon.

I've never been the hugest fan of this particular facelift version of the 9-5, but in this colour and specification, it really does tick all the boxes for me. It's one of the very last OG 9-5 to ever roll off the production line, a 2010 2.3 Turbo Edition, which was a special designation to enable them to throw the entire bin end parts at, an Aero with extras.

It's a high pressure turbo, manual gearbox and the full fat 260hp from factory, but it's the interior that benefitted most, with sat nav, Harman Kardon audio, perforated sport leather and electronically adjustable seats, heated front and rear, and a host of other nice touches throughout including the Piano Black dashboard and door card detailing.

This particular Saab has been in the same family for the past 10 years and comes with a nice amount of history, it needs some paintwork to bring it up to scratch, but there are no visible signs of corrosion, and even the lower rear arches are clear.

Now this is where the fun starts, as this is just the base car for a rather large upgrade. It'll be having the forged engine out of the Nocturne Blue Aero transplanted, together with the modified TD04 Turbo, Intercooler, LSD, upgraded clutch, Abbott downpipe and full stainless twin exhaust system. It'll have the upgraded 314mm front brakes and Saab Sport vented rears, a new set of Bilstien B12 shocks and Eibach springs, Powerflex polybushed subframe and numerous other modifications. It'll be delivering around 350hp and massive torque, and what's best, all in a Saab 9-5 Sportwagon, I've been looking forward to doing this for a few years now, and thanks to a great friend and Saab genius, things have fallen in to place.

I've got ideas coming together to give it an understated yet more aggressive aesthetic, although I plan to keep this very much OE+, this will no doubt change along the way, but that's all part of the fun. We'll end up with a hugely enjoyable Sportwagon that drives, handles and feels great.

There will be some great parts available during the build, not least, a perfect 2.3 whole engine, Turbo, and also a spare manual gearbox fitted with another upgraded clutch and LSD. I'll be listing these as soon as they're available, but ETA is around mid December.

Perfect Imperfection

November 12, 2024 Eleven

I’ve always been a great believer in imperfection, I love these Saabs to be able to share their journeys, both good and bad, with imperfection, there’s a beauty that helps tell a story. The Graphite Green Aero is a great example, I could chase the ‘factory fresh’ route, but here’s the thing, it would lose its soul.

How did this exceptionally beautiful Saab end up at a breakers yard, no history, no V5C? How was it so nicely maintained and yet had a reoccurring oil light issue? Who added carbon fibre to the B pillars and front lower spoiler? I might not be able to answer these questions, but through its imperfections, I’m able to create a story in my mind, and to me, that’s priceless.

I don't confess to know everything about these cars, or be a mechanical genius, but with the help of a few fantastic people, I take huge pleasure in rescuing and restoring these amazing Saabs back to usable, everyday cars. To be driven and adored, not locked away for show days and weekends, yes, they might have a few marks here and there, but that’s what makes each and every one special.

Life is about the journey and the experiences along the way, these Saabs make wonderful companions and form endless memories, it’s time to embrace these imperfections.

Saab 9-5 Sportwagon

Saab 9-5 2.3 Vector

Saab 9-3 HOT Aero

Saab 9000 Aero

“I’m so happy to see this Saab again and back in your ownership.To me and probably many others, both you and this Saab are icons to the Saab community”

“I’m so happy to see this Saab again and back in your ownership.
To me and probably many others, both you and this Saab are icons to the Saab community”