Engine Improvements
Most
people define “fast” by how quick a car goes in a straight line. While
this is not entirely true, since braking and handling also play an
important role, how much horsepower a car’s engine has is certainly a
crucial component. The great thing about Saab turbos is that they have
much more performance potential built into them, thanks to the turbo
engineering. One of the most common ways to increase power is to
increase the amount of boost, which is the amount of air that is forced
into the engine. On older Saab turbos, this is a simple matter of
turning a knob located under the dash. On newer models you will need a
reprogrammed computer chip, available from Saab Performance Parts (see
Resources). A performance exhaust system is usually good for around a
10-horsepower gain and is a next logical step. From there, you can
install more radical camshafts and an intercooler. By far the most
dramatic improvements will come from replacing the stock turbo with a
larger turbo. Just remember that this will create more wear on the motor
and can potentially shorten its life.
Brakes
With
your Saab accelerating faster, one of the next potential steps is
increasing the stopping ability. This (and the suspension) are important
areas to focus on, since it ensures that your car remains balanced.
Replace the stock brake rotors with cross-drilled and slotted rotors,
which will dissipate heat far better. Combine these with
high-performance brake pads and braided steel lines for a dramatic
improvement in braking and pedal feel.
Suspension and Wheels
Another
way to make your Saab a faster and better-performing machine is to
upgrade the suspension. Replace the stock springs and shocks with
high-performance lowering springs and Bilstein shocks from Saab
Performance Center. This will lower your Saab’s center of gravity and
help it feel more nimble and confidence-inspiring during fast cornering.
You can also upgrade the stock rubber suspension bushings, which tend
to flex during cornering, to firmer eurethane bushings. Saab Turbos come
with decent alloys wheels from the factory, but there is still room for
improvement. A wider set of wheels will allow you to fit wider tires,
which in turn will provide more grip. Check out the wheels from the Tire
Rack (see Resources).
