Should I get a C900? Need advise

756 Views 2 Replies 2 Participants Last post by quattro, Aug 9, 2010

quattro

Discussion Starter · Aug 9, 2010

So my wife doesn't drive manual and both my NG and 9000 are stick. I've promised that next year I'll jump on getting a nice SUV but until then I'm in the market for something automatic.

I've come across what seems to be a well maintained, rust free 1993 C900, 2 door turbo w about 120K miles. I've done some research on the auto trannies and I understand the pitfalls but this one just had the tranny replaced by a reputable Saab indy that I know. I'm gonna take a look at the car this week.

The guy is asking 3500 which I think is on the high side, but then again, it has a new tranny. (actually, I'll need to confirm whether its rebuilt or used). I don't have any pictures to upload but from the one I saw, the car is shot at some kind of Saab meet and is in great shape.

My questions are:
1. Even if everything works and its an example of a well cared for, rust free C900, is it worth $3500?
2. Should I get it? Or am I looking at a headache? For that kind of money, I know I can find a newer 9-3 or 9-5.
3. I will inquire about the last time the HG was replaced and will double check for rust in the usual spots, but what else should I be looking for?

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9000Andrew

· #2 · Aug 9, 2010

1. At $3500, you're looking at mint, rust free--the car better be just that.

2. It's a toss up with reliability. If the 900 is as well maintained as advertised, you'd likely have more headaches with a $3500 used 9-3 or 9-5. On the other hand, you can also get a pretty nice 9-3 for that money.

3. Require service records. Without them, walk away unless you've got someone showing you every area of the car on a lift. These cars can be serious money pits (ask me how I know).

All in all, what's the reason you're getting the car? For the wife to drive? If that's the case (and you want to stay married), I'd probably opt for something else other than a 17 year old c900.

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quattro

Discussion Starter · #3 · Aug 9, 2010

9000Andrew said:
All in all, what's the reason you're getting the car? For the wife to drive? If that's the case (and you want to stay married), I'd probably opt for something else other than a 17 year old c900.

Next year, we'll get a good used lexus RX SUV. In the meantime, the idea was drive something automatic until then. That said, I'm totally guilty of pushing the idea of a C900 - I've always wanted one and surprisingly she's ok with it, as long as its white and she gets her SUV next year

I was even thinking, if worthwhile, keeping the c900 and turning it into a project car..that's kind of where my mind is heading.

Back to the car, $3500 is indeed too much even if it is 'mint' - the mileage would have to be far lower to justify this price in my mind. Afterall, its still got over 120K miles and is 17 yrs old. The seller has already committed to getting a full mechanical report done at the Saab indy, which would give me both some peace of mind and bargaining power if issues are found. Kelly blue book shows retail price at $3000 (and that's in excellent condition), private party value of $2200 (excellent) - $1500 (fair), and trade in value between $830 (fair) - $1200 (excellent).

Luckily, I don't actually need the car - its more of a 'nice to have', for me..cough, I mean for her. I don't see a big market for this car in Ontario and I'm more than happy sitting on a lowball offer forever.

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