The 9-3 Monte Carlo is a rare Saab indeed, rumour has it that only 195 were released worldwide. There were 3 and 5 door versions, but the coupe has to be the chosen one with its HOT B204R T5 engine, stunning interior that's inspired by the iconic 9000 Aero interior by Recaro, and of course the shear beauty of form; extended doors, large rear side glazing and the timeless curves.

It's a Saab that I'd been looking for for an exceptionally long time and finally, one showed up that was hard to resist. Having been stored for more than 10 years, it's bodywork is near on perfect with none of the rust these early 9-3 are beginning to suffer, what's more it had only covered 73,000 miles, was a manual and had an interior that's as close to new as you can possibly get.

Early signs were fantastic, it drove beautifully, smelled like a proper Saab (those who know will know) and truly didn't have a mark on it. But of course with any 20 year old car, not everything can be right and after a full and thorough inspection, we discovered the obligatory split bulkhead had happened, so the work began.

The engine was totally removed, all signs of associated corrosion addressed, the bulkhead repair kit fitted and welded and the entire area rustproofed and resealed. Whilst the engine was out, we took the opportunity to fit a new Viggen clutch and Abbott Racing lightweight flywheel, drop the sump for good measure and generally replace anything that might need doing in the future together with a 250hp remap by Noob Tune.

The legendary Viggen rescue kit by Abbott was also fitted together with new Bilstein B8 shocks and Eibach springs, new bushes, new arms, front discs and pads and finished off with the beautiful classic Hirsch 18" rims.

Whilst all of this work was going on, I happened to find one of the rarest parts I've ever come across, a genuine Hirsch carbon dashboard and leather covered centre console which together, have absolutely perfected the already special interior.

I've noticed the speakers aren't good and might need replacing, I'm also moving towards a 3" downpipe and stainless exhaust so I can give it a stage 3 remap, but other than that, this is almost perfection in my eyes, this one just might be a little harder to let go of.

It’s been a hectic few weeks for the new 9-3 Monte Carlo, it went in to Malcolm Miles for it’s normal check over; oil and filter change and brake checks etc and ended up with the entire engine out.

What looked like an immaculate Saab, turned out to have a few surprises for us, not unexpected on a 20 year old car of course, but the obligatory split bulkhead had caused some areas to corrode, so with the impending suspension changes and power upgrades, it needed to be fixed and done correctly. The engine was removed as was the interior, the bulkhead welded, rustproofed and resealed and the famous Viggen Rescue Kit by Abbott Racing fitted.

Rust prevention has also been done to protect it for the future, drain holes cleaned up and coated as have the inner wheel arches. Whilst we’ve been at it, we’ve changed bushes, track rod ends, arms and brackets to handle the new Bilstein B8 shocks and Eibach springs with ease, we’ve also fitted a new Viggen clutch upgrade, a lightweight flywheel by Abbott Racing and set of performance discs and pads. The engine is now back in safely, a new 3.5 bar fuel pump and fuel filter fitted and we’re awaiting the arrival of the Stage 1 NoobTune remap to give the Monte Carlo its first 250+ grunt.

But with all of this mechanical work going on, it’s always rewarding to see some visual changes happening too. The 18” classic Hirsch alloys have been added but the best part for me has been the fitting of the ridiculously rare Hirsch carbon dashboard and the leather covered centre console. Not only has it changed the feel of the entire interior, but in my eyes, has given it the touch of individuality and quality it truly deserves.

More work will continue in time, but so far, I’m thrilled with how the Monte Carlo is coming along, it’s a Saab that deserves all it gets and will be an absolute pleasure to own and drive, the Hirsch touches taken from a genuine 2.0 Troll R from France, just add even more desirability.