Get a Saab 900 SPG?

alex_umn · #1 09-30-2004, 10:28 AM

Hey all!

I have the opportunity to get a black, rust-free '85 Saab 900 SPG five speed with a spare engine for $1700. Owned by a Saab mechanic, has a new steering rack and other problem parts are fine.

What do you guys think? I'm sitting on some overtime pay, and I could finish off IRA contributions for the year, or get a nearly two-decade old car.

It would be nice to have one of those huge hatchbacks, and I've always loved the styling.

Any opinions welcomed. Thanks!

GreenMarine · #2 09-30-2004, 10:40 AM

You better let Porter know about this!!! He is a Saab freak!!!

NikFu S. · #3 09-30-2004, 06:31 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by GreenMarineSVX
You better let Porter know about this!!! He is a Saab freak!!!

He still around?

Earthworm · #4 09-30-2004, 06:36 PM

He hasn't posted since June 28.

He has been here though. He modified one of his posts Aug 11.

#5 09-30-2004, 07:47 PM

GET THE SAAB!!!

Seriously. I happen to be a Subaru/Saab nut, and have owned many a Saab and Subaru...

They are quirky bishes though... I mean, come on... The engine is on TOP of the transmission (ie. the transmission serves as the oil resivoir) and the engine is in backwards (ie. belts side TOWARDS the firewall)

Be careful trying to get 'more power', as it is addictive, and expensive when you start breaking out 3rd gear on the transmission (Like I have twice). If it's an auto, leave it for a manual, seriously. The 3 speed is horrible. My 89 convert was auto, but I switched it to manual - best money I have spent on it.

I can't think of anything other than the tranny that I've had issues with, other than a steering rack on an 86 900 I had...

Otherwise, the SPG is pretty nice... Put some Bilsteins on it, Swedish Dynamics lowering springs, and poly bushings, and you'll be amazed at the handling. There's also a good aftermarket IMHO.

In like 88, they changed a lot, though - Better brakes, water cooled turbo, etc., but an 85 SPG - that was the intro year for the SPG! Gotta get that one!

Sorry for the 'rant'. I loves me some Saabs... (Ohyea, and the turbo will sound will also become addictive

)

PS: Check out www.saabcentral.com they have some buyer guides to classic saabs...

NikFu S. · #6 09-30-2004, 11:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Earthworm
He modified one of his posts Aug 11.

How do you know that? ?_?

GreenMarine · #7 10-01-2004, 07:30 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by NikFu S.

How do you know that? ?_?

Look in his member profile.... Either that or be here when he does it

I know, He's been on NASIOC almost all the time now... I'm on there alot too

alex_umn · #8 10-01-2004, 03:48 PM

I decided against getting the SPG; they are friggin sweet but I should really save money for retirement, the SVX, and hopefully a better garage to hold neat future projects...

Mr. Pockets · #9 10-01-2004, 03:52 PM

You are an inspiration to all of who aspire to be more responsible.

Chiketkd · #10 10-01-2004, 04:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Mr. Pockets
You are an inspiration to all of who aspire to be more responsible.

So what ever happened to that 80's 300ZX you were looking at Pockets?

-Chike

Mr. Pockets · #11 10-01-2004, 05:51 PM

Well, I didn't buy it, for one. I really wish I had, it was just bad timing for me.

Right now I'm looking for a MkI MR2. Unfortunately, they seem to come in two varieties:

1. High mileage, rebuilt engine, mostly bondo. $500.

2. Low mileage, excellent condition. $4000.

It's annoying.

Subafreak · #12 10-01-2004, 08:32 PM

Whats SPG stand for?

#13 10-01-2004, 09:59 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Subafreak
Whats SPG stand for?

I think its like Special Performance Group or Saab Performance Group. They had better factory suspension, leather, a more 'tuned' turbo computer/ECU...