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Re: How to make a 9-5 lpt more like an Aero Posted by Peter [Email]  (#2804)  [Profile/Gallery]
(more from Peter) on Sat, 5 Jul 2003 13:26:59
In Reply to: How to make a 9-5 lpt more like an Aero, KenD, Sat, 5 Jul 2003 12:57:07 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
Ken, I got my 1999 9-5 before the Aero existed. Rather than losing big time on a trade when the Aero arrived, I upgraded a number of components and now have a car that is very comparable to an Aero. Mind you it is not exactly (didn't upgrade brakes, etc.), but it is a tremendous ride, reliable (now at 99k miles), and generates big smiles every time I drive it.
What I did:
1. Power/engine upgrdes: i) ECU upgrade - I went with Abbott but now that Speedparts sells in US, that is probably simpler (no shipping to UK required). Going from 170 hp to 210 hp DOES make a difference. You also get nice torque gains that probably add as much to the feel as the hp. ii) Sport exhaust (Saab/Remus). Theoretically adds ~7hp. Most important is the sound - not too loud, but reminiscent of the early 900 turbo. iii) New bypass valve (Stratmosphere). Results in smoother turbo kick in but I doubt any power change. iv) K&N air filter - helps that turbo breath better with the added boost. Theoretically adds a couple of hp, but not something I could really tell.
2. Handling: i) Stiffer springs (B&G on mine). This made a huge difference in cornering (very flat) and braking (no hood dive). ii) Sport shocks/struts (Bilstein). These were needed to work with the stiffer springs. The stock shocks allowed too much rebound from the stiffer springs. iii) Initially I went with 225/50-16s as you note. Made a big improvement. Eventually went with a 17" wheel (Ronal LV) and 225/45-17s. These add a little weight, but the 8" width (vs 6.5" on the stock wheel) results in less sidewall roll and the wheel looks great.
Of these, the biggest measurable gains were from the ECU upgrade, springs/shocks upgrade, and larger tires.
You can see a picture of my car in the 9-5 classifieds (posted 5/31/03 and photo linked below). I got a company car last month and don't have room for 3 cars in our 2 car garage. Too bad my wife wants to keep her minivan.
posted by 65.81.161...
, Sat, 5 Jul 2003 13:26:59 <-- Viewing This Message
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