A lot can happen in fifteen years, and this edition of Auction Dilemma is a perfect example. We begin with a 2006 Saab 9-5 2.3T Aero SportCombi built seven years before General Motors shut down its failed Swedish experiment. And, we have a Volvo V70R from 2007, three years before Ford sold the brand to China-based Geely. While both of America’s largest automakers decided to ditch their “need for Swede,” these Euro wagons are imperfect examples of what was once possible from the land of ABBA and Avicii. Both cars are up for bid on Doug DeMuro’s carsandbids.com.
2006 Saab 9-5 2.3T Aero SportCombi
For contrarian wagon shoppers, the SportCombi is the perfect fit. Saab wagons were rare when new and even more so today. This black 2006 edition may have seen better days, as evidenced by body blemishes and a since-fixed moderate rear-end collision. Still, its top-tier Aero trim and aftermarket upgrades make for a unique ride at a potential bargain price. With about 119,000 miles on the clock, this multi-owner Saab shows registration history in numerous states, including Nevada, Texas, Georgia, and Illinois.
Power comes from the legendary 2.3L turbocharged inline-four, which was factory rated for 260 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The seller reports an ECU tune was performed on the engine, but output details are not available. Other mechanicals include a BSR exhaust, K&N cold air intake, and Eibach shocks and struts. A five-speed automatic transfers power to the front wheels.
Inside, the granite gray leather is in decent condition, but the driver’s seat is undoubtedly showing every mile. We did say this car imperfect. Cabin features include a sunroof, power front seats with heat and ventilation, automatic climate control, and cruise control.
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2007 Volvo V70R
What’s a pirate’s favorite station wagon? Well, that would be a Volvo V70 “R,” of course. Bad joke aside, this Black Sapphire Metallic V70R is perhaps the perfect sleeper for a swashbuckler or a soccer mom (or dad). Like its Auction Dilemma counterpart, this wagon has its share of dings and scraps even with less mileage (about 84,000 miles on the odometer). CarFax is showing a multi-owner, multi-state history that’s accident-free.
Legendary status is equally deserved for the turbo five-cylinder found in this V70R that was originally rated for 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. An adjustable sport-tuned suspension adds to the driving experience, while a six-speed auto controls all four wheels.
Online users report that R model upholstery isn’t the best with wear, so it’s no surprise to the Nordkap (bluish-black) leather in need of restoration, particularly for the driver’s seats. Cabin equipment includes heated front seats, integrated child boosters in the second row, and a rear-facing third-row seat.
Which Swede Would You Hitch Your Wagon To?
Wagon lovers might have a hard time deciding between two Swedish flavors of a performance family hauler. With two days remaining on its auction, the 2006 Saab 9-5 2.3T Aero SportCombi has a current $3,900 high bid. Its counterpart, the 2007 Volvo V70R, has a $5,800 high bid with five days left on this auction.
Source: carsandbids.com