In this article we offer you an interesting and informative perspective on how a (SAAB) car can be transformed into a cultural asset with a soul. And it is about another exceptional Saab car from Taiwan and an even more exceptional owner – just as unique as Saab cars are.
When it comes to cultural sustainability, the transmission of emotions and ideas from one generation to the next is key. Heritage must keep up with the times and meet the needs of contemporary life. This is what Professor Lu of the Department of Cultural Assets in Taiwan emphasizes to his students. And when it comes to his own personal cultural asset, his 2003 Saab 9-5 Arc, he has taken this philosophy to heart.
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Over 360,000 km on the odometer
With over 360,000 km on the odometer, this Saab has been driven by Professor Lu for nearly five years, accompanying him on visits to cultural assets throughout Taiwan and countless family outings. But this Saab is more than just a car to Professor Lu.
It is a unique “cultural asset” that reflects his personality and carries the memories of his personal and family life. And so, when it came time to undertake a continuation project, Professor Lu wanted to retain the Saab’s original design spirit while enhancing its driving pleasure and braking safety to keep up with modern trends.
Maptun Stage 5 = 340HP
The result of the continuation project is an upgraded Saab 9-5 Arc that has become a member of the 300hp club. The car now boasts a Maptun Performance Stage 5 upgrade, which has increased its power to 340HP and 480NM.
The Maptun Enlarged Turbine TD04HL-XT, Maptun High Flow Air Filter, Maptun Sports Car Catalyst, ETS High Flow Intercooler, Abbottracing Enlarged Intake Duct, Sprid 465cc Fuel Injector, and Walbro 255 LPH High Flow Gasoline Pump are just some of the performance parts that have been installed.
In addition to the performance upgrades, the Saab has also received a Saab 345mm front brake kit and Bilstein Sports Suspension Kit. The Supersprint mid-tail runner exhaust has been installed to provide an attractive and reflective exhaust sound that is in line with Professor Lu’s personality. And the JE Forged Pistons and polished cylinder head complete the upgrade package.
The Saab’s continuation project took six months to complete, during which time there were many discussions about how to balance the desire for increased power with the need to maintain the car’s original design spirit. The result is a car that reflects both the driver’s personality and the Saab designers’ original intentions.
Saab is more than just a car.
For Professor Lu, his Saab 9-5 Arc is more than just a car. It is a cultural asset that embodies his philosophy of education and life. And the car is alive, with its meaning embodied in the interaction between the driver and the rider. As a life partner, the Saab will continue to accompany Professor Lu and his family into the future.
