Auto Bild’s Spotlight: A 2004 Saab 9-5 SportCombi with 440,000 km
Auto Bild recently featured a 2004 Saab 9-5 SportCombi Aero, highlighting its unique position in the used car market. This particular model boasts a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine delivering 250 horsepower, paired with a spacious interior and distinctive design. Despite its impressive mileage of 440,000 km, the vehicle is listed at a modest €2,500, sparking interest among enthusiasts and budget-conscious buyers alike.
The article notes some cosmetic imperfections, such as a fogged headlight and wear on the leather seats, but overall, the car presents well for its age and mileage. The seller’s transparency about these issues adds credibility to the listing. Auto Bild emphasizes the rarity of finding such a well-equipped and powerful wagon at this price point, especially one that stands out from the typical German offerings.
Performance and Practicality: The 9-5’s Enduring Appeal
The Saab 9-5 SportCombi Aero is renowned for its blend of performance and practicality. The 2.3-liter turbocharged engine provides robust acceleration, making highway merging and overtaking effortless. Coupled with a spacious cargo area exceeding 500 liters, the SportCombi is well-suited for both spirited drives and family road trips.
Owners often praise the 9-5’s comfortable ride quality, supportive seats, and distinctive Scandinavian design. The Aero trim, in particular, offers sport-tuned suspension and additional features that enhance the driving experience. While some competitors may offer more modern infotainment systems, the 9-5’s focus on driver engagement and practicality remains a strong selling point.
Reliability and Maintenance: High Mileage Considerations
A mileage of 440,000 km is substantial for any vehicle, raising questions about reliability and maintenance. However, many Saab enthusiasts report that with diligent upkeep, the 9-5 can achieve such figures without major issues. Regular oil changes, timely replacement of wear-and-tear items, and attention to known weak points—such as the Direct Ignition Cassette—are crucial for longevity.
Parts availability remains very good, thanks to the continued support from specialized suppliers and the shared components with other GM vehicles (Opel, Fiat, Chevrolet…). Nevertheless, potential buyers should budget for ongoing maintenance and be prepared for the quirks associated with aging European cars. A pre-purchase inspection by a Saab-savvy mechanic is highly recommended.
Market Position: A Unique Alternative in the Used Car Landscape
In a market saturated with German wagons like the Audi A4 Avant and BMW 5 Series Touring, the Saab 9-5 SportCombi offers a distinctive alternative. Its unconventional design, turbocharged performance, and relative rarity appeal to those seeking something different. The Aero variant, in particular, provides a level of performance that rivals many contemporaries, often at a lower price point.
While resale values for Saabs have historically been modest, this also translates to affordability for buyers. The 9-5’s combination of practicality, performance, and character makes it an attractive option for enthusiasts and pragmatic drivers alike.
Final Thoughts: Is the High-Mileage 9-5 SportCombi Worth It?
The 2004 Saab 9-5 SportCombi Aero featured by Auto Bild presents a compelling case for those willing to embrace its high mileage. At €2,500, it offers a potent engine, spacious interior, and distinctive styling. However, prospective buyers must weigh the potential maintenance costs and the challenges associated with owning an aging vehicle.
For Saab aficionados and those seeking a unique, capable wagon, this 9-5 could be a rewarding choice. Its combination of performance, practicality, and character is hard to match at this price point. As always, due diligence is essential—ensure a thorough inspection and be prepared for the responsibilities that come with high-mileage vehicle ownership.
Reference:
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Auto Bild’s original article on the 2004 Saab 9-5 SportCombi: Saab 9-5: Gebrauchtwagenmarkt
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Full listing for the featured vehicle: AutoScout24 Saab 9-5 Aero Kombi
I’ve owned two 9-5 Aeros and my current one just passed 360,000 km with original turbo and gearbox. If this one made it to 440k, someone clearly knew how to maintain it. €2,500 is a steal for a car that still looks like this.
Let’s be honest: 440,000 km is terrifying to most buyers. But for a Saab fan, that just means it’s broken in. The only real question is how fresh the DI cassette and suspension bushings are?
Bought mine at 270,000 km. Drove it to 380,000. Crashed it. Repaired it. Still going. Saab ownership isn’t for the faint-hearted—but it sure teaches you loyalty.
Da prendere al volo
multiplies (see also article
Everyday and twice on Sunday. But only if the steering wheel was on the right side
Cheap car to flog everyday without worry of loss.
2.500 is nothing to risk for a car that loooks like that! In usa its impossible to find 2004 saab in such conditions even for 10k