Iconic Saab Design

September 18, 2025 Eleven

I recently did a small post on Instagram about the Saab ALU36 wheels - in my opinion, Saab designed some of the most beautiful OE wheels ever produced, their iconic 3 spoke structure is a key feature in many of their designs, from the original 900 Aeros to the Turbo X - all had the same 3 spoke structure.

I’ve long admired the purity of the ALU36 wheels, and again, with the same 3 spoke design, only double. They came standard on the Saab 9-3 HOT Aeros, and were also optional on the Saab 9-5 model range, suiting both equally well.

I love their sculptural form, the way they help elevate the car’s intrinsic beauty, the subtle concave surface drawing the eye to the Saab identity at its core. I never fail to be impressed by Saab design, a true masterclass in refinement and simplicity.

Of course, many folk agreed with me and also suggested other, equally stunning Saab wheel designs, but what I adore most, is to see how people put their own mark on the same wheels. I received messages from a number of people, but 2 stood out, and wanted to share their wonderful take on the ALU36 wheels for others to be inspired by.

Top theodorkasprik Czech Republic | Bottom tarkowsky_95 Poland

Saabs at the Depot

September 10, 2025 Eleven

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Saturday morning, the usual pre car meet panic; none of the Saabs are clean, which one do I take, which one has enough petrol in it? I grab the keys for the 9-5 Sportwagon, give it a quick clean and set off towards Weedon in Northamptonshire for Saabs at the Depot.

Built in 1802, The Depot was originally a Royal Ordnance stronghold for small arms and cannons, today, it’s been re established as a home for small businesses; artisans, garages, studios and the important one - Gasoline Juice, a local destination for petrolheads.

Kindly organised by The Saabist, the event brought together 50+ Saabs and their respective owners for a good natter over coffee. We were blessed with great weather and a whole host of wonderful Saabs arrived including a unique, custom build 900 Turbo owned from new and lived in 3 countries, an immaculate 9000 Turbo with epic, burgundy interior, and showroom condition 9-5 Sportwagon; the cleanest I think I've ever seen, and a beautifully used and enjoyed Viggen, driven extensively throughout Germany and Switzerland.

A great few hours spent in the company of likeminded petrolheads, and a chance to take a few photos of the event to share with everybody. We were joined by a few gorgeous non Saabs too, a Mercedes Pagoda, Audi Quattro and a gorgeous Volvo wagon, all adding to the lineup.

Rawsaab needs our support

September 4, 2025 Eleven

From estimates, there are some 60,000 Saabs in the UK, the 9-3, or course, is by far the highest number, equating to at least 50% of all UK Saabs I’d imagine. What most owners will have realised by now, is that we’re beginning to have to rely on independent suppliers for critical knowledge and parts supply.

It’s important that these independent suppliers are supported and protected, which in turn, will protect our Saabs and keep them running for many more years. That brings me to an urgent appeal from one of the UK’s leading resources for older Saab 9-3’s - Rawsaab. Some of you will already know about Peter Raw, it’s owner, as he’s recently put out a plea for support from the Saab community, he’s also known for his knowledge and passion for the 9-3 Viggen, what Peter doesn’t know, possibly isn’t worth knowing.

I won’t try and rewrite Peter’s words on his current situation, and instead, will just share them, but needless to say, it really seems a no brainer to me, for the community to rally together and raise enough money for Raw Saab to continue.

As with everything in life, things are better when we help each other, but what does this mean in numbers? It would take just 1500 Saab fans worldwide to donate £100 each, this would allow Raw Saab to continue to be a central hub for Saab 9-3 parts. That’s just 2.5% of UK Saab owners, not global, just UK.

‘This is a pivotal post regarding the future of Rawsaab. As many of you know I’ve helped the saab community worldwide for many years , not only with parts and repairs but also with free advice but this could all be about to change. My landlord has decided to put the mill up for sale so here’s my problem , it could be the end of Rawsaab , I could look for somewhere else but it would be a mammoth task to relocate and I’m sure the cars would have to go.

A couple of customers have suggested that I ask for everyone of my Facebook friends and customers for help. If we could get the funds together we could purchase the mill and safeguard the future of rawsaab and indeed many Saabs. Any money donated would be solely used on the business. I could also maybe offer an incentive for anyone that anyone who donates 100 pounds or more would get a discount on parts for a year.’

Remember, it’ll take just 1,500 UK Saab owners donating £100 each to ensure Rawsaab can continue. Wouldn’t it be great if our community could rally together and make this happen.

DONATE HERE

Inspiring a love for Saab

August 27, 2025 Eleven

Back in 1991, Saab launched the 9000 CS, a revised and updated version of the CC hatchback, it took another 2 years before the Aero model arrived in 1993. I'd recently joined an Advertising agency, and my boss at the time had just taken delivery of a brand new black, 9000 Aero. He had it shipped directly from the local dealership to Abbott Racing for a few immediate upgrades, and when it arrived, I was pretty obsessed with it.

It took me another few years before I bought my own, and it had to be a 9000, sadly, not an Aero, but still, my very first Saab. That black Aero inspired my love for Saab, and since then, I've owned over 40, however, the 9000 Aero really does have a special place in my heart, and I keep going back to them over and over again.

A few moths ago, I'd seen this one for sale, it was a car I'd been offered before, but wasn't in a position to buy it at the time. I remembered its story though, and the wonderful work involved to rescue it. Owned originally by a customer and friend of a 'home brew Saab specialist, the 9000 had been parked outside his home, when a neighbour's car rolled down the hill and in to the back of the Aero, damaging the rear quarter, that was in 2016, it was some time before the owner asked his friend to fix it, by which time, it needed a long list of work doing.

As things got underway, the original owner had second thoughts, and offered his friend the car. A deal was done, and the Saab immediately became a parts car with the airbag, wheels and lights removed. It was then left until 2021, when the son of the home brew Saab specialist, went to look at the car and decided it was a genuinely great 9000 Aero that needed bringing back to life.

He set about welding the areas required, replacing both front wings, and all of the missing parts that had been previously removed. The engine had a full top end rebuild, with cleaned head, new stem sills and valves freshly lapped in, the throttle housing was ported, turbo rebuilt with a new mellet core, new water pump, new aluminium radiator, 3" downpipes and numerous other hardware. It's also had a stage 3 map by Saab Clinic and a compression result of 185psi, which is very strong. Having covered 250,000 miles, it feels beautifully smooth and tight, the gears are reassuringly strong, and the torque has lost none of its appeal.

Whilst the exterior is good and rust free, it's the interior that really demonstrates Saab's exceptional build quality. Besides the normal patina on the Rocky Black leather Recaros, the space is wonderfully free of wear. All of the dashboard illumination works perfectly and the materials have held up exceptionally well, almost 30 years old, and it still feels like such a wonderful space. The seats of some of the best Saab ever designed, and the comfort level is like no other.

Last of the Summer Merlot

August 26, 2025 Eleven

It's been a few years since my last OG 9-3 HOT Aero Convertible, and I've truly missed having one in the collection, so, just in time for the Autumn / Winter season, I've found another one - and it's my favourite time of year for owning a convertible.

I've been on the search for a while now, and specifically had Silver in mind, I'd seen a wonderful one available with the rarer blue roof, and what better combination to go with my existing Silver 9-5 Sportwagon and Silver 9000 Aero. But then last week, I happened to see this absolutely stunning 9-3 come up for sale again, it's one I'd known of before, as Peter Raw had it a few years back. The Merlot Red Metallic and Sand Aero leather is exceptionally rare here in the UK, and a combination I absolutely love, the condition and MOT history are fantastic, and it's had a lot of care and maintenance done under its current stewardship.

Over the long weekend, I managed to persuade my wife I needed yet another Saab, and she kindly took me over to collect it. The current owners have had it since 2020, but due too an imminent move to the wilds of Scotland, they decided to let this one go, a heart wrenching decision, but I promised it was going to a good home. In person, the colour combination is truly spectacular, it's wonderful to see one of the these early 9-3 convertibles with a light and airy interior, rather than the normal black, it adds a level of elegance I've long admired, and feels comforting and cosy when the roof has to go up.

As this was the last long weekend of the year in the UK; and some suggest, the last wonderfully warm Summer day for a while, it really couldn't have been a better time to embrace the joy and freedom only a convertible can bring. They have a unique ability to immerse you in nature, the skies, trees, and countryside as you drift through in utter Saab comfort. And there's one more joy that just can't be matched - driving the Saab convertible under the warm night skies, full of stars and wonder, whilst inside, the classic green and orange illumination is reassuringly familiar.

The Original SUV

August 19, 2025 Eleven

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As Saab once put so eloquently ‘Why wait for tomorrow?’ life is all about getting the most out of every day.

They went on to clarify; ‘Grab the opportunities and follow your instincts. With a Saab 9-5 Wagon, you can make it a habit. It gives you innovative solutions and versatility that integrate with your daily needs. At work, with your family or on the way to your favourite activity. Just go where you want and bring what you like – whatever the season’ in other words, the original SUV.

Although I also own a few SUV’s, the Saab Sportwagon does everything they can do and more. In fact, it does it with more style, more elegance and more enjoyment. The Saab 9-5 Sportwagon set out to be just that, sporty and practical, and 20 years on from that brochure, I still believe these are a better option.

‘Let your interests and lifestyle decide how you equip your Saab 9-5 Wagon. Depending on what you choose, you and your car will be ready for just about anything. Recreational activities, work or holiday trips.'

For many reasons, SUV's are a trend that never faded, but I'd still choose the Saab Sportwagon over any SUV, purely for the fact that they just feel better to drive. Their lower stance feels more connected to the road, you still get ample space for utility purposes, and they just feel far less cumbersome. Saab managed to design an exceptional form in the Sportwagon, the lines of the windows flow beautifully from front to back, whilst the side profile quietly suggests purpose.

I still like to stand back and admire the 9-5, and today, I thought I'd take it to a place that felt like home; a Nordic feeling forest, the perfect place for a few photos, made even more memorable with a mileage milestone, 123,456.

Far from the Madding Crowds

August 11, 2025 Eleven

Saturday 9th August 2025, The old Saab factory in Trollhättan hosted a huge sale of Saab assets, including thousands of rare parts, merchandise, concept designs, blueprints, interiors and general paraphernalia from the factory’s hallowed grounds.

I sadly couldn't work out the logistics to attend in person, but together with my friend and fellow Saabist; Ward, we luckily had a man on the ground with instructions to search and buy.

Although he arrived an hour early, it was immediately obvious that many, many people had the same idea. Sadly as it turned out, it wasn't in the calm and friendly Saab spirit we'd all hoped it would have been, and we didn't manage to get any of the items we'd have liked, and especially sad that none of the colour frogs were available.

Before the event, I'd noticed in the NEVS pictures, that there appeared to be a few interesting items I'd have loved to know more about; the odd wheels for instance, were these test wheels for new models? Interior samples, again, were these concept pieces?

I imagine it was an exciting day, but also a rather sad one too, Saab's precious assets sold off in a madding crowd. I hoped that certain, important items like concept samples, rare blueprints and merchandise, find their way to the museum so that we can all enjoy them in the future.

The wonderful creators of Marcus & Manuela's Saab Channel were at the final Saab sale, and kindly did an amazing tour of the factory. I hope they don't mind me adding a link to it here, but it gives a genuinely immersive experience.

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.

Saab Colour Frogs

June 9, 2025 Eleven

Although not the first marque to come up with this concept, you could trust Saab to have designed and made the most beautiful colour samples for their cars. Back in 2002, international Saab showrooms introduced an entire collection of these wonderful models, based on the iconic Saab 92, they're widely known as 'Colour Frogs'.

Created by the Saab Design Studio in Trollhättan, formed from a polyester - fibreglass laminate, sprayed in the various available colours and then simply identified with a discreet line of typography.

Although I've known about these for years, I've never consciously set out to find one, until now. I happened across an image of someone's Saab parked next to a collection of the colour frogs, and became a little obsessed. I began my search to find one for sale, and as luck would have it, found one available in Snow Silver Metallic; the same colours as my latest 9-5 Sportwagon project, it was fate, a few days later it arrived.

I've since sourced a few more, making a small collection, but if anyone has a spare colour frog they no longer need or want, I'd love to hear from you, as I’ll continue to try and collect them. ‘Oh, I have one of these you might like…’

Old School Saab Audio

June 5, 2025 Eleven

Apart from the fact that I love my Saab interiors to feel very much OE, I absolutely adore the aesthetics of the original audio. The illumination seamlessly matches, there's no bright, distracting screens, and absolutely no scrolling text, it just does what it's supposed to; play music, entertainment and news

But then, of course, there's another level of old school audio beauty, Saab, as with a number of other prestigious marques, offered a range of high end audio options in their cars, in this case, for the 900 and 9000, this equipment has always appealed to me. Of course, it's totally out of date with no connectivity, and yet it still demands my fondness.

I've had a number of original Saab units over the years, but recently, I found these high end, Clarion made for Saab ones, and I love them. From research, they're units from the mid to late 1980's, I have the radio and tape, equaliser and amplifier units, which, if all goes to plan, will be able to be fitted in to a future 900 or 9000. I'm also hoping I'll be able to maybe find a way to integrate either an Aux or Bluetooth facility for discreet, modern connection.

I also discovered yet another gem of a Saab site, this one is by Henrik Glad, a fellow Saab fan in Sweden and also creator of the renowned eSID, he has a shared love of these amazing Clarion made for Saab audio units. Alongside endless valuable information, user manuals, service and installation guides, the site features numerous OE optional equipment brochures, an absolute treat for us Saab folk who love to loose a few hours flicking through literature.

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.

Inspired by the Hirsch Troll R

March 3, 2025 Eleven

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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).

Saabstance Camp 2024

February 25, 2025 Eleven

As we all patiently wait for the weather to improve and look forward to our calendar of Saab gatherings, I’ve been kindly sent a link to the Saabstance Camp 2024 in Liberec, Czech Republic.

Over the years, I’ve truly admired the design, photography and film Saabstance bring to the Saab community, and this latest film is no exception. It captures ‘The True Soul of Saab’ and asks people to share their stories - what makes Saab so special, what is so enduring about them, and what makes us such a unique global community. Grab a coffee and enjoy 15 minutes of pure Saab appreciation.

TTiD Innovation by Saab

February 20, 2025 Eleven

Despite diesel not being my first choice of fuel back in 2010, I'd become quite obsessed with the new Turbo innovation by Saab, the TTiD. At the time, I'd tried a whole host of competitors, from the Alfa 159, Mercedes C Class, Audi A4, BMW 3 series and the Jaguar XJ, but after driving the Saab 9-3, it was hard to change my mind.

Yes, it was more individual and the facelift had made the 9-3 look truly fantastic, but it was the wonderful diesel engine that left a lasting impression.

A two-stage Turbo – the latest development of Saab's turbo engine technology, delivering refined performance, torque and economy. It features one smaller and one large turbocharger which co-operate to provide higher torque over a wider rev range. The small turbocharger works alone up to 1500 r/min, after that the second-stage turbo kicks in and both chargers run. Above 3000 r/min, the larger turbo charges the engine alone.

"It’s the power delivery that makes it stand out. Saab has integrated a two-stage turbo for a broad, linear spread of shove and crisp, near-instantaneous throttle response."

Car Magazine

Having a budget of around £30 - 35k at the time, gave me the perfect opportunity to not only choose the Saab 9-3, but to completely upgrade it to Hirsch specification from the Saab dealer. It meant being able to push the already lively performance up to 200hp and 430Nm of torque, which made a noticeable driving difference. And the crowing glory, only 119Co2 and £30 road tax a year.

Interestingly, 14 years on and having the opportunity to own and drive the very same 9-3 again, has been enlightening, the Saab TTiD still feels lively and responsive, and at speed, the diesel engine settles down to a very refined level and enables you to cruise quietly along in Saab's legendary comfort. So far the efficiency seems to have been maintained, with an initial average of 40mpg.

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.

It's a BlueSaab Day. And I'm feeling good

February 18, 2025 Eleven

Keeping my Saabs looking as close to factory as possible, has been a consistent theme to my rescues, and especially the interiors. I’ve always loved the aesthetic of the 9-5, the dashboard and console, the form and function of the buttons and displays, and even the standard audio system.

But, no matter how nice it is to use a few of your old CD’s, not having a decent connection to music steaming is a real shame. Yes, I’ve tried the tape with the wire, I’ve also installed a few aux plugs, but none have been a great solution, and the cables coming from your dashboard are ugly and distracting.

Last week however, I happened to log on to one of the Facebook Saab Groups and discover a super clever guy called Frank Mathieson in Cornwall, had crafted the perfect solution for our old Saabs, the BlueSaab V6. (9-3 : 1999-2002 and 9-5 : 1998-2005). I immediately messaged him to see if I could be one of this version’s lucky recipients, and a few days later, one arrived.

My Graphite Green Aero already had a CD multi changer in the boot, so I excitedly disconnected the unit and removed the cage, plugged the BlueSaab unit directly into the exciting wiring loom, and hoped in the car to give it a go; an initial flat battery scuppered my excitement for a few minutes, but after boosting it from the Defender, the Saab kicked back in to life, the BlueSaab V6 immediately showed up as a Bluetooth device on my iPhone, and boom, Spotify was playing.

Beautifully clear, no distortion and showed up simply as CD1 on my SID where the multi changer would have been featured, and the steering control volume buttons worked perfectly too. It’s not full of features, you can’t choose track etc from your head unit, but the beauty is in it’s simplicity, choose you favourite Saab playlist, turn up the volume and drive.

Thanks for the innovation and commitment Frank. To me, this is exactly what I’ve been searching for, a way to keep my 9-5 interior looking like it did from Trollhättan, but also have the benefit of Bluetooth steaming. Great work. Frank can be contacted via Facebook, but i’m unsure how many units in each batch he’s able to produce, so might not always be available.

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!”

"It’s the power delivery that makes it stand out. Saab has integrated a two-stage turbo for a broad, linear spread of shove and crisp, near-instantaneous throttle response."

“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”