Date: Fri, 28 Oct 2005 09:33:47 -0400 From: ma_twain <ma_twainnospamo.com> Subject: Re: Opinions on 1995 Saab 900S V6 Standard
ShazWozza wrote: > hippo wrote: > > > >>To quote our Saab mechanic of 15 years, >>"well yes, of course I'll work on it, after all it's your money, but I'd >>still advise against it. If you're going for the GM, buy a 4, preferably a >>turbo, but better still buy a low mileage 9000 Anniversary." >> >>He listed timing belt & head problems, plus excessive tyre and front end >>wear as common enough problems to be considered normal, so we didn't buy >>it. Immaculate car though! Cheers >> > > I think the issue of the Vauxhall V6 engine being shitful is over stated. A > family member has one in a car which has now clocked up over 350,000km. The > engine has only ever had timing belt changes, plugs, radiator hoses, some > suspension bushes and regular changes of dino oil. It still runs like a > charm and uses no oil between changes. > > The only problem issues with it have been rocker cover oil leaks (easily and > cheaply fixed) and a fuel pump failure at 300,000km. The engine > consistently produces excellent fuel economy and will usually see 7l/100 or > less on the highway. > > The oil coiler is a potential problem. It is supposed to be always fully > immersed in coolant however people who don't religiously maintain the > coolant level properly can experience corrosion. I understand that later > versions use a stainless steel oil cooler which has fixed that weak point. > > I can't say that excessive tyre wear has been a problem. > So GM made one good engine. I am working from personal experience and repair bills. The GM V6 is a very expensive engine to maintain (how much did your family member pay for the timing belt changes?) compared to the Saab four cylinder. I have owned 8 valve and turbo charged four cylinder 16 valve Swedish Saabs. So I know what it cost to maintain these engines over decades. I curently drive a 1993 C900. It has more power and gets better gas mileage than the V6. It also handles much better. I have standing offers from other people to buy it from me any day. I cannot say the same thing about the NG 900 V6. The reason I am selling the GM 900 V6 is because I don't want to spend any more money fixing that GM engine.