I used to own a '99 9-5 SE 3.0t and I loved it! To start, as you said, the engine is alot different than your 2.3L or like my new '02 9-5 Aero. In some ways its better. In my opinion the V-6 has a few advantages over the 2.3L.
First off, it has almost ZERO turbo lag, especially with the sport mode engaged. Also because it already has the extra displacement, you have a good amount of torque to start with, which provides a smoother power delivery. It feels more like big V-6 or a small V-8 than a turbo I-4. Although it doesn't have the "rush" compared to the high pressure turbo's, the 229lbs TQ is plenty enough power for a stimulating daily driver(Notably livelier now with the newer, faster, smoother 5sp Auto).
Secondly, the V-6 is generally a smoother engine because of the "V" shaped arrangement of the cylinders. This naturally cancels out some of the vibrations, particularly during idle.
Overall the V-6 has very few reliability issues except the timing chain at 60k. But I have not heard of any premature failures, or any other problems like that of the 4cyl.(besides the typical saab SID and Shocks you mentioned) On the other hand, what you will sacrifice is less of a rush of power, slightly less fuel economy, and harder parts to come by(3.0t was discontinued), specifically performance upgrades.
Aside from the engine, the Arc has to be the nicest of the 9-5's. It is geared more toward luxury than sport with Ventilated seats, nice wood trim, awesome Harmon Kardon stereo, and softer riding suspension. In all the '02 Arc is a very nice luxury sedan that is very hard to beat. 500% nicer, faster, and better MPG that that FORD P.O.S.(excuse my french, LOL) With all that said, would I give up my new Aero for the Arc... Not in a million years!!! LOL. But different strokes for different folks. I'm sure you'll both love it more and more every day that you drive it.

Good Luck and enjoy,
David
'02 9-5 Aero

posted by 69.172.167...

• Need your input on 9-5 Arc, V6, etc., Noel, Thu, 29 Dec 2005 13:26:57
  • Re: Need your input on 9-5 Arc, V6, etc., albanysaab, Fri, 30 Dec 2005 03:20:12
  • Re: Need your input on 9-5 Arc, V6, etc., billherbst , Thu, 29 Dec 2005 15:06:59
  • Re: Need your input on 9-5 Arc, V6, etc. (longish..), DavidFL, Thu, 29 Dec 2005 14:49:05 <-- Viewing This Message

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