A unicorn among modern Saabs hits the auction block
In the shrinking world of Saab performance wagons, this 2008 Saab 9-3 Aero SportCombi XWD with a six-speed manual transmission stands out like few others. Offered by the well-regarded dealer 1600veloce on Bring a Trailer, this car combines the rarest drivetrain configuration with solid mileage, mechanical freshness, and full transparency.
While the Saab 9-3 nameplate has been associated with comfort, safety, and Scandinavian restraint, the Aero variant—especially when spec’d with the turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 and manual gearbox—was Saab’s answer to the likes of the Audi S4 Avant and BMW 335xi Touring. This isn’t a quirky commuter. This is a 255-horsepower all-weather assault tool that still holds onto Saab’s identity even when buried under 2024 crossover sameness.
A closer look at the performance-specs that matter
The star of the show is under the hood: a 2.8-liter DOHC V6 with a twin-scroll turbocharger, factory-rated at 255 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. That power is routed through a six-speed manual transaxle to all four wheels via Saab’s Haldex-based XWD system. It’s a setup that delivers predictability, traction, and driving engagement in all conditions.
Where many 9-3 Aero models from this era were paired with a six-speed automatic, this car retains the full enthusiast spec—which is exceedingly rare. Manual transmission Aero SportCombis are elusive in any condition, let alone one offered at no reserve and with under 85,000 miles on the clock.
If you need more technical validation, know that Saab paired the V6 manual Aero with Electronic Stability Program (ESP), sport-tuned suspension, and ventilated disc brakes all around. This isn’t a badge kit. It’s a full factory-engineered performance package, built when Saab engineers were still pushing to make the brand relevant in GM’s bloated lineup.
Known seller, trusted quality
This car is offered by 1600veloce, a seller whose name is familiar to anyone who follows Bring a Trailer’s Saab listings. Earlier this year, we covered their impressive 2010 9-3 Convertible resale, which drew record attention on BaT.
What separates 1600veloce from fly-by-night resellers is consistency. With over 1,900 listings, a climate-controlled showroom, and a full-service shop, every vehicle is cleaned, maintained, and documented before being offered. This 2008 SportCombi is no exception. Recent work includes:
- Coolant flush and water pump replacement (Jan 2024)
- Serpentine belt, air filter, cabin filter changes
- Rear dampers and mounts replaced
- A/C system recharged (July 2024)
This is not a car fresh off a trade-in lot. It’s been curated, prepped, and marketed by professionals who understand the nuances of Saab ownership.
Black on black: understated aggression
The car is finished in Jet Black (paint code 170) with subtle chrome detailing and 17″ double split-spoke alloys wrapped in General G Max AS-07 tires dated 2023. The stance is factory-correct, aided by the factory sport suspension and still equipped with roof rails and sunroof.
On the inside, the contrast continues. You get Saab’s iconic Night Panel mode, dual-zone climate control, a black leather interior with Parchment inserts, and heated power front seats. The instrument cluster shows boost pressure alongside the standard analog suite—a visual reminder of this car’s performance intent.
While minor wear is reported—including a 2018 front-end incident classified as “minor” on Carfax—there are paint meter readings included in the gallery and full disclosure from the seller. Transparency like this is rare even in premium classic listings.
A Saab worth collecting and driving
Values for clean Saabs have been steadily rising over the past five years, particularly for the 9-5NG, Viggen, and well-optioned 9-3 Aeros. What makes this car unique is its position in the enthusiast market: it’s still affordable, but with every year, there are fewer manual V6 SportCombis left.
The 2.8 V6 is known for strong torque and durability when maintained properly. Unlike Saab’s older B-series engines, it prefers premium fuel and regular synthetic oil changes, but with those, it can easily cross 200,000 miles with grace. And with the Haldex AWD system, this is a car that can be enjoyed year-round, rain or shine.
Don’t let this pass as “just another wagon”. It’s an increasingly rare chance to own a genuine Saab driver’s car in a practical, long-roof format.
Auction details and final thoughts
At the time of writing, bidding is at $6,500 with one day remaining. While pricing may rise, this car still represents excellent value given its drivetrain, provenance, and recent service. For reference, similarly configured cars have sold in the $10k–$14k range—often with more miles and less documentation.
The auction ends here on Bring a Trailer. Even if you’re not bidding, it’s worth watching—just to see how far a clean, enthusiast-spec Saab 9-3 can still go.
Saabs like this don’t just appear randomly. They come from sellers who understand what they have and buyers who know what they’re looking for. If you’re reading this, you’re probably one of the latter.
Related reading: Make your 2.8 V6 Saab stronger and more reliable
If you’re driving (or dreaming of) a Saab 9-3 Aero XWD like this one, you’ll want to check out our new deep-dive feature on how to keep the B284 2.8 V6 running at its best. Saab expert Javin Sheperd from the Solving Saab YouTube channel shares his Top 5 Mods that fix the factory weak points, reduce heat soak, and make the engine bay easier to work on.
Read the full guide: Top 5 Saab 2.8 V6 Mods – Reliability
