The man behind the car
If you’ve followed UK-based Saab content over the years, you’ll recognize the name Paul Petherick — the man behind the blog Saab vs Scepticism. Known for his honest ownership chronicles, Paul has documented every mile, mod, and moment with his Saabs. His latest post, titled “Winding Back Time”, captures a full-circle moment — as he now parts ways with one of the most unique factory Hirsch-tuned Saab 9-3 TTiDs in the UK.
One of the rare few — factory Hirsch from new
This isn’t your typical Aero. When originally purchased brand-new in 2010, nearly every available Hirsch Performance part was installed at the dealer level — creating a fully homologated, 200hp twin-turbo diesel that remains compliant with Saab’s build integrity. In Paul’s words, it was “a bit of a one-off Saab in the UK.”
From the Hirsch ECU upgrade, dual exhaust system, and lowered suspension, to the pedals, gear knob, handbrake, door sills, and front grille, the vehicle was essentially transformed into a complete Hirsch edition — a rare specification even among enthusiasts.
Premium upgrades: elevating the interior
When Paul re-acquired the car in 2024, he didn’t just give it a mechanical refresh — he elevated it. Not content with the original Aero seats, he sourced and installed full premium leather electric memory seats, the kind found in top-trim European-market models. As he describes it, these offer far superior support and finish compared to the original ones — and they finally match the standard that Hirsch deserved.
With Hirsch carbon interior trims, leather dash, and other visual enhancements, the cabin now feels more in line with what the 9-3 Aero TTiD should have offered from factory.
What’s been done recently?
Since buying it back in early 2024, Paul has invested over £2,500 into the car, including:
- Refreshed suspension components for improved handling
- Refurbished alloy wheels and new tires
- Extensive mechanical servicing
- MOT passed with flying colors
- A brand-new Hirsch lower front grille and Saab undertray (£600 worth of parts, included)
It’s ready to drive and delivers a consistent 45 mpg average — an impressive figure for a car with 200hp and that unmistakable turbo-diesel torque wave.
What’s left to do?
As always, Paul is transparent. The bodywork, while still solid underneath, could use cosmetic paintwork to bring it up to the level of the refreshed mechanicals and interior. There’s no visible corrosion and the undercarriage is clean, but to truly match the quality of the cabin and drivetrain, a full respray or smart repairs would elevate it further.
He’s included the aforementioned replacement grille and undertray, offering a good start for anyone wanting to finish the car cosmetically.
The price and rationale
Paul bought the car back for £3,500, invested over £2,500, and is now offering it for £4,500. Why? Because another Saab 9000 Aero opportunity has emerged — and as he notes with a smile, “one in, one out” is the household rule.
This is a car that’s been thoroughly enjoyed, respectfully modified, and documented every step of the way. For anyone looking to own a well-sorted, rare Hirsch variant with excellent bones and strong mechanical condition, this is a no-brainer deal.
Quick Specs Summary
- Model: Saab 9-3 Aero TTiD Hirsch 200hp
- Year: 2010
- Location: Leicestershire, UK
- Mileage: 124,000
- Owners: 4 previous, including Paul from new
- MOT: 12 months
- Tax Band: £30 per year
- Price: £4,500
- Full Service History: Yes
- Hirsch Parts: Extensive — engine, interior, exterior, suspension
- Interior Upgrades: Premium full leather electric seats, carbon details
Why it deserves attention
In a market where well-kept Saabs are becoming harder to find — and genuine Hirsch parts even scarcer — this example offers a balanced opportunity. You’re not just buying a car; you’re taking over a well-documented enthusiast build with strong mechanicals, authentic factory tuning, and modern-day usability.
To see the full listing, visit Paul’s official post here:
🔗 https://saabvsscepticism.co.uk/saabstories/2025/5/10/winding-back-time
You’ll also find the breakdown of optional extras here:
🔗 https://saabvsscepticism.co.uk/saabstories/2025/4/8/optional-extras
needs to be soft top
Where are you please?
one has been surfaced caught and needs sanding down and blowing in again, front and back bumper, and a few scratches, pretty much rust free and only surface where it is. I’d personally be spending around £1 – 1.2k on paint if o was keeping
Absolute beauty