Here's a corker of a Saab

[John Hubertz]

Saab 9-2X 2004-2005.    Noticed that due to being 'orphaned' the used car value of all Saabs has bottomed out - ran across this gem of a cheap used motor while I was shopping around.  With luck you can get a clean one for around 5,000 US.  Right now there is a 160K example of Ebay that is very nice - under $2500 with no reserve auction. 

Here's some words about it:

"Subaru manufactured a badge engineered version of the second generation Impreza and WRX hatchback as the "Saab 9-2X" between 2004 and 2005. Retailed only in the North American market for the 2005 and 2006 model years, the car earned the nickname "Saabaru".[16] The car's name is written as "92X" on its badge, but as "9-2X" in advertising and other texts."

This is that rarest of all enthusiast vehicles - an example where the USA got something really special unavailable in the world market.  Usually we get watered down versions of the zippy cars you enjoy in AU and Europe.

Check it out:  Somewhat natty two-tone Saab interior with nice comfy seats, unique Saab grill, trim and badging.  Full-on Subaru WRX AWD performance and handling.  Bolt for bolt identical to the Subaru except for trim and some upgraded suspension bushings.  Collectibility of a Saab without the difficulties of finding spares.



Good article on the car.  http://autopolis.wordpress.com/2014/02/02/2005-2006-saab-9-2x-the-sum-of-anothers-parts/

I'm adding this one to my "next car" list.

[arman]

Interesting John, me living in Sweden had no idea about this. The car looks however rather odd having a SAAB nose and the rest a Japanese compact car. They should have built a more SAAB-ish end on it with SAAB looking tail lights. But quality wise I reckon the car holds a high standard. Where do you go for service and repairs? Subaru? Should I import one? Maybe they make quite a hit for the youngsters, as second-hand here in Sweden.
BR Arman

[TJ 450]

Haha, I thought it looked like an Impreza.

Well, it's different I guess.

Tim

[gf]

Wow! Had no idea these existed. It would make a great combination if it had genuine SAAB seats with an Impreza.  A definate step up from late model SAAB build quality Id suspect.

[KenM]

Never heard of these, if I had seen the pic only I would have thought somebody had done a photoshop job. With Subaru build quality this would be a good little car. Saabaru, love it.

[motec6.9]

Yeah read about them years ago in Wheels magazine. But seeing Saab has gone the way of Rover , Hummer, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Plymouth , Saturn & other long dead and forgotten car brands. And this is a Mercedes forum. Who really gives a damn.