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Re: Thinking about a newer Saab wagon Posted by Tom G [Email] ![]() ![]() In Reply to: Thinking about a newer Saab wagon, Saabina ![]() |
I own both, 05 9-5 Aero wagon and an 09 Subaru (Outback sport).
The wagon (135k miles) is a a dream to drive, fast, comfortable and good (relatively speaking) on gas. My concerns with the wagon are age (13+ yrs), potential weirdness of some problems (mainly electronic), anti-lock brake controller (>$2k or so) that are beyond my capability and require a tech 2 to diagnose fix.
The Subaru (manual) has been a safe reliable car. The all wheel drive traction is vastly superior to the Saab. While not as comfortable as the Saab on long trips, it's not bad. As opposed to what Jersey said, my CV joints are ok. Exhaust proximity not much different than 900 Saab. It has a timing belt, replacement is 90-100 k miles. I've replaced (along with water pump & associated parts) for about $300, relatively easy since it's single overhead cam. I've gone thru rear brake caliper (normal) and it seems to go thru brake pads faster than I'm use to but I use Autozone for the pads and because they have a lifetime warrant, the cost to replace nothing. Had to recently replace entire exhaust from Cat back, pipes were ok, but rusted worn at weld seams. I noticed similar weak wear points in a Toyota Corolla exhaust system. The exhaust set me back about $600-$700 plus a day of my time. So far, head gasket is ok. Anti skid system very robust. I once skid on black ice on an exit ramp. Before I could think about which way to turn the wheel, the car had slowed the engine, applied braking in manner to stop the skid. Made be a believer right then and there. The guard rail was just waiting for my car.
Like the Saab, Subaru is an example of a great car. Subaru had an abysmal start in this country, but made themselves into a better product. They're very popular in the Northeast.
Hope this helps
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