7 Years, 355HP, and Zero Secrets: Gary Russell’s Saab 9-3 Aero V6 Is Up for Grabs

Introduction: a YouTube-documented Saab legacy now available to buy

For those deep into the Saab enthusiast scene, the name Weakest of Weeks needs no introduction. Gary Russell, the creator behind the popular YouTube channel, has spent the last seven years meticulously documenting every bolt turned and part installed on his beloved 2008 Saab 9-3 Aero.

Now, in a move that surprises even him, he’s decided to part ways with the Laser Red machine that’s become one of the most recognizable Saabs on the web. And this isn’t just a tuned Saab — it’s a complete package: 355 horsepower, 420 lb-ft of torque, a six-speed manual, and a conservative Vermont Tuning map built for reliability.

Powertrain upgrades: 355hp of reliable turbocharged torque

Under the hood sits the proven 2.8L V6 turbocharged engine, but don’t let its factory rating fool you — this Aero has been transformed. Key highlights include:

• BC Innovate 22T/18G hybrid turbo
• Bosch 700cc injectors
• AEM 50-1000 high-capacity fuel pump
• Do88 intake and ceramic-coated intercooler pipe kit
• Mitsubishi Evo 8 front-mount intercooler
• Prolific Builds downpipe and midpipe

All components have been ceramic-coated in black to manage under-hood heat — not for show, but for performance. The Vermont Tuning ECU calibration ensures reliability while delivering serious torque across the rev range. With 355 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, this Saab pulls hard — but remains civilized.

Russell includes the Vermont handheld tuner and multiple tuning files, allowing a future owner to refine the tune or go more aggressive if desired. It’s worth noting that this engine setup was built not for max horsepower, but for daily driveable, long-lasting power.

Transmission and drivetrain: manual simplicity, no XWD headaches

Purists will appreciate the 6-speed manual transmission, which remains one of the best-kept secrets of the Saab 9-3 range. But more importantly, this Aero is front-wheel drive, not XWD. While the all-wheel-drive system introduced with the Turbo X and later Aeros had its merits, it also brought complexity and maintenance.

Russell puts it plainly: “This is just downright reliable.”

And he’s not wrong. Without the cost and failure points of Haldex components, this car delivers power to the ground more simply — and in a more analog, engaging way.

Exterior highlights: subtle aggression, factory feel

Finished in Laser Red (278) — a color Saab enthusiasts know demands upkeep — the car’s paint and body are in excellent condition. The hood was recently repainted to remove rock chips, and restored headlight lenses have been sealed with Eastwood’s 2K clearcoat to ensure longevity.

It also features:

• Authentic Hirsch trunk spoiler
• Replica Hirsch rear diffuser
• 18” Opel Astra J / Insignia VXR-style wheels
• LED fog and DRL lights, error-free thanks to proper Tech-II programming
• OEM power-folding mirrors
• Fresh Goodyear tires

The body sits with a balanced, planted stance without over-aggressive lowering, making it equally comfortable for spirited driving or long road trips.

Interior and comfort: premium B50 leather and OEM Bluetooth

Inside, Saab’s B50 leather interior in black remains in excellent condition, far surpassing base Aero trims. The Turbo X-style shifter bezel adds a subtle factory-performance touch, while the glovebox features a custom 3D-printed cupholder and the rare 2003-style illuminated trunk release button.

Other key details include:

• Fully functional SatNav and radio
• OEM Bluetooth phone module wired in (phone pairing works; streaming audio not supported)
• Auto-dimming mirror with compass
• Functioning sunroof and climate control
• WeatherTech trunk liner (originally for a Chevy Cruze, but fits surprisingly well)

This interior is both clean and functional, with no check engine lights, working AC/heat, and two original Saab key fobs.

Maintenance history: every bolt documented

Here’s where this car stands out beyond most enthusiast builds: the entire seven-year ownership and upgrade journey has been documented on YouTube.

Every how-to, every part installed, every minor fix — it’s all there for public viewing on the Weakest of Weeks YouTube channel. This is transparency at its finest.

The car also comes with a physical binder of receipts and maintenance logs, a rarity among modified cars of this vintage. Even small details like the AGM battery installed in 2024 and six new ignition coils have been logged and filmed.

The price and listing details: where and how to buy

Gary’s asking $10,500 USD, and considering the documentation, tune, tasteful modifications, and condition, that’s a fair number for what amounts to a turn-key Saab performance build with no guessing or surprises.

Location: Columbus, Ohio
Mileage: 142,544
Listing: Saabnet Classifieds
Full photo gallery: Google Photos Album
Video walkaround: YouTube Video

Briefly: more than just a modified Saab

While many modified cars hide their history, this 9-3 Aero wears its journey with pride. It’s not just a “fast Saab” — it’s the product of years of patient upgrades, careful tuning, and community transparency. You don’t just get a 355hp Aero — you inherit a documented legacy.

Gary’s closing remarks in the video say it best: this isn’t the end of his Saab journey, just a new chapter. And for someone else, this might be the perfect beginning.