1985-1998 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
that's ever rolled.
Saab was historically the premier engine company, in my opinion. They've consistantly developed creative, innovative engines and wrapped them in some pretty good chassis.
Ironically, BMW has the reputation as 'the' engine company, but the B234R is a much better motor than the M3 motors of the same era. The 5 speed Aero motors are rated at 225hp, but this is very much fuel dependant. On a cool evening with a good tank of premium it feels more like 240. The with the TD04 turbo charger the Aero motor has great low end torque...I've often commented that the B234R feels like a small V8.
As far as reliability, with proper maintenance they'll go 250k miles without a sweat. The only caveat here is that the B234 has an aluminum head on a cast iron block. Overheating leads to a blown head gasket or a warped head, so cooling system maintenance is very important.
As to why they don't use it anymore, I think GM economics is the key driver. Straight out of engineering school I interviewed with a couple US car companies and there is a penny pinching mentality in force that defies description. While a 225HP engine was cutting edge 10 years ago, these days 225HP is easier and cheaper to obtain with narrow angle V6s. Trust me, if it's even a nickel cheaper, that's the direction things are going to go.
I figure the 9-5 is due for an overhaul, as 300HP is the new baseline for cars in that class. At that power level conventional wisdom dictates a rear wheel drive layout. I'm guessing GM will elect to skin an existing chassis, perhaps the Cadillac STS.
I suspect we've seen the last of Saab inspired engines, and that's a harsh reality that is really too bad.
posted by 67.125.7...
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