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Aeros thru 2001 produce 230HP. The 5-speeds have an overboost feature that can kick out up an extra 20HP for around 20 seconds I believe. Starting in 2002, the Aeros were listed as producing 250HP, which was more of a marketing scheme I think. The auto boxes in 2002 were improved and are 5-speed autos to handle the extra power I believe, but the engine was essentially unchanged from previous models. No LSD from the factory, however there is one available from Quaife. As far as how much power it can handle, you will more than likely come to a wall with the engine than with the transmission.
Your engine upgrades will go about like this:
- downpipe
- exhaust
- intercooler (there is a debate on whether installing a front mount or just replacing the stock one with a bigger unit is more beneficial)
- software upgrade
- fuel pressure regulator
- cold air intake (although some disagree with the efficacy and long-term engine effects)
- intake (cobra) pipe (again a debate about this)
- delivery pipe upgrades (debate yet again)
Respected tuners have made 300HP without those last three upgrades, so they may not necessarily help. In some cases having a bigger delivery pipe actually hindered! After 300HP, you will probably have to think about a bigger turbo, new injectors, and forged pistons.
Of course you should always upgrade your suspension components before you start on engine upgrades; this should go without saying. Springs and shocks at a minimum. There is also a lower suspension brace available if you can find it that is supposed to be amazing for handling. There is also an uprated rear anti-roll bar available, but not advised without doing other components first as it will induce oversteer if you are not careful with the balance.
I suppose the whole point is that each car is different; there are some loose formulas but our SAAB engine management is fantastic and complex yet can be finicky. Much can be done, but the tuner market is limited and we all learn from each other. Best of luck and hopefully this helps. Cheers.
posted by 204.156.7...
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