Learn me Saab 9-3 (second gen)

I'm wrist-deep in Google already but I thought I should post here as well. Looked at a 2005 Saab 9-3 Aero today. 255,000 kms, manual trans, looked to be in excellent shape, $3000 safetied.

I know these cars are more GM than Saab and use GM's Ecotec engine. Do I still have to worry about oil sludge? I popped the oil cap and couldn't see anything nasty. Any other "Saab-ishness" I should be worried about?

For the record, I plan to autocross it and maybe do the odd track day.

Thanks all.

Sludge isn't an issue. Some parts can be harder to find and/or need to come from Europe or Australia. I have had an issue with window safety limiters, but thats my only complaint so far.

If it is an '05 it might have the 2.8T V6 instead of the 2.0 Ecotec, I can't remember what year the Aero got the V6. This has been asked a couple times recently, see below. I think they are great little cars with a surprising aftermarket (genuinesaab.com)

http://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/grm/last-generation-saab-9-3/80543/page1/

http://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/grm/2010-saab-9-3-sportcombi-20t-manual-any-reason-not/75627/page1/

At that price with a safety, pretty hard to go wrong. I like mine a lot.

I'd stay away from the 9-3ss great drive train horrible everything else. I own a 9-5 and it is leaps and bounds ahead of the 9-3 as far as comfort and reliability. The interior of the 9-3 is so cheap everything raddles itself apart. Dont worry though if you need a new multi function switch you need a tech2 with security access to program it. Along with anything else electric in the car it is all on GM's attempt at canbus

Perfect, thanks for all the tips and links so far. Going back with the family to take another look in the morning.

My neighbor has a matching set and really likes them.

The 2.0l is good, should have lots of miles left. 2005 is a great year for an aero. The 9-3 is way better looking than a 9-5 inside and out and has superior handling and far better safety. The rattles can all be tamed with a bit of tape and patience.