July 28, 2021 11:11 am by Mark Holthoff

2006 Saab 9-3 Aero SportCombi with 96k Miles

For July 28, 2021, our used car find is this 2006 Saab 9-3 Aero SportCombi with 96k miles. It’s offered on Craigslist by a private seller in the Los Angeles area for $9500 or best offer.

Here’s what makes this one special.

The Listing

The second generation 9-3 (internal code YS3F) debuted for the 2003 model year (in the US). It was a much needed update of the original 9-3’s aging platform, which dated to the late 1980s. Despite being sourced largely from the GM parts bin — with a chassis shared with the Chevy Malibu and engines shared with the Opel Vectra — this version of the 9-3 retains plenty of quirky Swedish Saab-ness, particularly in the funky-looking wagon body style, dubbed “SportCombi.”

This example is one of the nicer ones we’ve seen in a while, with relatively low miles and a tidy overall appearance.  In top-of-the-line Aero trim, it sports a 250 hp turbocharged V6 paired with a 6-speed automatic routing power to the front wheels. Though the 9-3 Aero SportCombi was available with a manual gearbox, the slushbox works perfectly well in this application, helping to keep the revs up and smooth out turbo lag on your way to the Whole Foods parking lot.

Aero models were also loaded with options, which drove the MSRP (when new) into the mid $30,000 range, making it one of the pricier cars of its day.

In the words of the seller…

2.6 Liter Turbo V6
Premium 10 Speaker Harmon Kardon Sound System
Leather Seats
Sunroof
Stability Control
Rear Folding Bench Seat
One Touch Windows

Looking closely at the photos in the listing, we see a bit of creasing and discoloration in the Parchment leather seating surfaces. That’s quite common with Saabs of this era and can likely be mitigated somewhat by a good detailer. Otherwise, the car looks to be very well kept.

The seller’s $9500 ask is somewhat high for this model, reflecting the good condition and low miles. Assuming it drives as well as it looks, it could be worth a premium price. Still, we’d recommend having the car inspected by a reputable Saab mechanic prior to purchase, just to ensure that you’re getting what you pay for.

Details and Specs

• 2006 Saab 9-3 Aero SportCombi (YS3F)
• 96,221 miles
• 2.8 liter turbocharged V6 engine (LP9)
• 250 hp @ 5500 rpm and 258 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
• 6-speed automatic transmission
• front-wheel drive
• Black exterior with Parchment leather interior
• for sale by owner for $9500 (or best offer)
• Cerritos, California
• YS3FH51U261119973

Photos