UKSaabs

Service history is essential and prices will reflect the history. The IMS/RMS issues are well documented and will apply to any M96 engine car (986/987) although different bearings were used in different years. I had the IMS and RMS replaced on my 996 when I had the clutch done just for piece of mind. It didn't cost that much more and will make the car easier to sell.

The bigger issue on the M96 engine is bore scoring so you might want to get a bore scope inspection. I know that a PPI is quite common on the 996s and I had one done on mine but I'm not sure how common bore scoring is on the 2.7. It's worth looking into though as rebuilds aren't cheap.

I also agree on the comments about dealer servicing. I was tempted to use my local dealer just to carry on the dealer service history but they wanted £1350 for a service which I ended up having done at a specialist for half the price.

A bit early in ownership for me to comment too much but I would say so far that they are a bit of a "raw" driving experience after a Saab. Handling is amazing but the ride is...connected. Also, I am only 5'10" and it is a pretty snug fit - getting my legs past the steering wheel to get in involves a bit of a side-shuffle, and I have the seat fully back and fully down.
Makes a great shopping car, though, with a boot at both ends!!

As to buying, I was coached by a friend in Canada who has been a long-time track instructor for his local Porsche club so (at the risk of stating the obvious) HISTORY IS EVERYTHING!!!
Mine was maintained by the previous owner on the company account so everything that needed to be done got done - IMS, Clutch, RMS all at the same time just because.
Do be aware that the audio kit is very variable and the basic system - certainly on a 986 - is even more basic than the base 9-3. Mine has two, single-driver speakers, and there isn't even any wiring present for an upgrade to four. I have swapped out the Becker radio/CD for a Pioneer HU with USB/BT/AUX and am in the process of adding some rear speakers (because adding door speakers is stupidly complicated and expensive)

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Why do I have to fix the tools before I can do the jobs?

Thanks for those useful comments. I am 6’2” so access may be difficult

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Nearly there

Don't worry. Germans are generally tall people and if you want to get into something you will.

It reminds me of my grandfather who had severe mobility issues and made a fuss getting in and out of various family cars. I took him out in the Sonett and he literally skipped in and out of it! When you want to, you can!

I strongly recommend that you sit in one before doing anything else. Whether or not you can achieve a comfortable driving position will likely hinge (!) on where your joints are. The steering column only adjusts in and out, not up and down, and I end up with my knees slightly up so my thighs are not really pressing on the cushion and a feeling that my feet are just slightly raised from a relaxed position.
For reference I wear trousers with an inside leg of 32". Top of my head is maybe 1.5" clear of the roof.

Oh, and - try getting in and out with the door partly open, as if someone has parked a bit close.

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Why do I have to fix the tools before I can do the jobs?

Friend has just replaced some diaphragm on his that separates the oil from the air? And returns the oil back to the sump. A breather of sorts? Give away is puffs of white smoke at idle while warming up. He's not great at cars but fixed it himself

You should have perfected that procedure by now

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I am Jeremy and I drive a Saab !

I've only ever had to replace a 9000 alternator once. Unlike the 9-5, it's perfectly possible to replace the regulator/brushes in-situ on a 9000.

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They are well put together and will give long service if looked after as above, though servicing needs an independent specialist or large bankroll.

Have driven a 2.7 first generation in anger in Germany; ride is rough but handling is very good, not at all fast though next to a tuned 9k Aero. Personally if it is affordable I'd run a 996, they have and will appreciate far more than the Boxster.

The air/oil separator...a regular item to watch out for, I was warned.

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Why do I have to fix the tools before I can do the jobs?