1999-2009 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
I don't need to mention how outstanding Saab has managed to blend performance, driving character, utility, safety, and fuel economy. Used Saabs have wonderful entry level pricing. However, just like any used, European car, their repairs are closer to their original price tag, even if you can buy them for Honda Accord money.
Here are my thoughts on replacements:
2001 2005 Audi S6 Avant - V8 power, V8 thirst, proven AWD, questionable future maintenance costs & VERY satisfying performance. The V8 in these cars has won awards for engineering, quality, and HP output. Very reliable and they are used in a wide variety of machines, both mundane and exotic. Not available in the US with 6MT. Costs $18K to $25k in the ~85K miles range.
2001 - 2008 Audi Allroad - 2.7twin turbo, available w/ 6spd. Great turbo power, great performance upgrade aftermarket, outstanding utility, marginal MPG increase over a V8, proven AWD, questionable future maintenance costs & VERY satisfying performance.. the 2.7t Engines in A6/S6 body cars are FAR less prone to the heat issues from the B5 S4 due to the increased engine bay space. Costs in the ~$14K range for ~85K miles+
2003 - 2008 Infiniti FX45 - V8 power, V8 thirst, proven AWD (read: Skyline GTR sourced AWD), questionable future maintenance costs & VERY satisfying performance. Japanese maintenance costs (read: minimal). Quirky styling? Check. Great utility, although it's probably on par with a Saab 9000 hatch as opposed to the Audi Avant space. Wonderful 2nd owner depreciation values. Not available in 6MT. Costs in the ~$20K range for ~30K to 80K miles range.
2003 - 2007 Saab Aero Wagon 5spd. Well, we know how this stacks up. Costs in the ~$8K to $15K range with ~85K miles.
While it's hard for me to ignore the siren song of the Audi S6, I'd probably go with the Infiniti FX45. When I cross-shopped those two a few years back, I was hard pressed to say the S6 had ANY edge on vehicle performance dynamics. It was that good. It's a big, fast, quirky shaped Japanese wagon with Japanese reliability.
posted by 24.21.2...
, Sun, 20 Dec 2009 12:07:33
, Sun, 20 Dec 2009 13:32:52, Sun, 20 Dec 2009 15:39:31
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