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Thankfully, all Saabs are available with a 5-speed, unlike many many mfg's.
With current models, as you know, you have two choices: 9-3 or 9-5.
The 9-5 is a great vehicle and might a nice transition from your Maxima. Certainly, it's the more modern vehicle (compared to the 9-3). If you are looking to upgrade for more power, you should probably avoid the SE V6 models. As I understand, there are few upgrades for these. The base 2.3 liter LPT felt sluggish to me but it is adequate. The Aero uses the 2.3 liter HOT engine and moves well. You can upgrade the LPT for more power with new software but there's more to the Aero than just software. It also has a slightly stiffer ride, better tires/wheels and is lowered .4".
Handling upgrades should be the same for all models.
The 9-3 is great and can be had cheap however it's going to be replaced next year or the year after with a totally new design (the 9-3 is a very upgraded NG900 which dates to 94). Upgrade options are abundant here. The Viggen will be a screamer but the deals are not as good as last year.
Looking at used cars, I'd probably go for an early 9-3 or possibly a late 9000 Aero. There's a lot of debate whether the 9000 or 9-5 is the better car, the consensus being that the 9-5 is more mainstream, softer riding and less saabish. The 9000 is well designed, especially after a run of 10+ years. It also tends to rattle a bit more (so I hear) and the design is definitely older looking. Of course, you get the hatch in the 9000 AND possibly those AWESOME aero seats! The 9K Aero, however, does command a significant premium even today.
If I was shooting to build a Saab performance car that could carry 4 passengers in comfort with a reasonable budget, I'd go for a 97 9000 Aero with low mileage then turn to aftermarket suppliers to beef it up a bit. My guess is that you'd have a great value like that. You could do the same with a 9-5 Aero but you'll be looking at $45000+ and the persistent question of warrenty.
There is a place, wigwam saab I think, that claims to sell a Nordic Stage 3 9-5 with full warrenty support. The Nordic kit turns it into a monster with 300 hp.
Bryce
85 900S
00 9-5 Aero
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