The Saab 9-2x. I know they're akin to the WRX but that's where my knowledge ends. Are the Leanear models turbo? Or just the Aero? I've heard horror stories of head gaskets. Timing belts?
Looking for something to drive in winter and an occasional track day if my life ever gives me time to do so.
the Aeros are the Turbos. Linears are non-- sort of like the difference between the Impreza and the WRX.
They are more or less the same as the Impreza of the same year.. just dressed up to go out instead of ready to play in the dirt (not that they can't)
I have a 9-2X Aero. It is mechanically identical to a WRX, plus an STI steering rack and slightly different dampers.
All WRX info applies. Start here: http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=533787
I have an aero too. This linen upholstery never met a stain that it didn't like. The only unique parts are the hood, fenders, hatch, and bumper covers. Subaru parts bolt on but there are differences if originality matters to you. Also they are subject to the airbag recall and it can be a real pain to find a Saab service center to do the work.
The SAAB versions have more/better sound insulation, and the Aero has the STI rack and possibly springs/struts. The rack is what I remember because I hate slow steering.
Consider the Aero to be halfway between WRX and STI with a dash of Euro-luxury.
Downside: You gotta pay cash. Seems like any auto-loan place will not loan for SAAB, or any other recently orphaned makes.
I had one for years. Loved it. Seats stain a lot and the Aero DOES have the STi steering rack but does NOT have STi struts. Being a wagon they fit less tire than a sedan WRX will. Overall, it's a tough car to beat as a DD. Mine had RCE Wagon springs with Tokico D-specs and GTWorx camber plates with 17x8 wheels and 235's and it was an awesome car to hoon around. Sounded great with the Prodrive oval I put on it and took well to an exhaust and tune. Just typing about it makes me miss it.
The one negative (and it's a big one IMO) is that last I heard about 4 years ago, body panels are getting very hard to find. As such, any accidents will take the car out of commission for a while while the parts are sourced. I doubt the situation has changed for the better in the last few years, given how long Saab has been out of commission. Body panels are still made, just rarely, if ever, in stock.
Yeah, body panels are very hard to find. I was quoted a sort of ridiculous price for full coverage on one a few years ago as a result.
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