A few years ago, I owned a 1987 Saab 900 or 9000, I can’t remember which, and it was a great little car until my husband wrecked it. The same person who sold me that car now has an '85 turbo for sale. It’s a beaut (if you like Saabs–I know some people think they look goofy but I think they’re neat). The car itself has 180,000 miles on it but the engine is newer. It’s in near perfect condition (inside and out) because the guy is an experienced Saab mechanic who rescues and restores them. He’s fixed or replaced almost every part that needed it and it drives great! He wants $5000 just to get out of it what he put into it. I’ve known this guy a long time and his honesty is not at issue. My husband thinks I’m crazy because it’s so old. Please give me your worthy opinions. Thank you, Anne
It is old, and you will have some repair bills along the way if you buy it. This era Saab is perhaps the best of the bunch, but I don’t think it is worth $5,000. If you love this era Saab and have to have it; go for it.
Is the guy selling the Saab close to you? Finding mechanics who know and like these cars isn’t that easy anymore. One area that is tricky with older Saabs is the fuel injection systems. Non Saab mechanics can mess up a Saab fuel injection repair very easily. If you buy it make sure you have a good Saab specific mechanic available in your locale.
The 900 is what you want, the 9000 wasn’t as good a car.
If your plan is to use the '85 as a collector car or hobby, and not put a lot of miles on it, great. If you plan to use it as a daily driver I think you’re in for a disappointment.
It’s a 25 year old Saab. You’ll need a Saab specialist just to keep it running.
The $5,000 it took to get the car in decent condition should tell you something.
Thank you for your helpful commnets.