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High-Mileage, High-Value: The Iconic Saab 9-3 Aero Griffin Sportwagon Awaits Its Next Guardian

A high-mileage hero with a rare pedigree—this Saab 9-3 Aero Griffin is a collector's gem that deserves preservation

Preserve a Piece of Saab History: The Rare 9-3 Aero Griffin Sportwagon for Only £1,195

Introduction

The Saab 9-3 Aero Griffin Sportwagon, a 2011 model with a staggering 301,000 miles on the odometer, stands as a symbol of Saab’s enduring engineering legacy. Registered originally to Saab GB, this vehicle was a prominent feature in test drives, photoshoots, and possibly even a sponsored golf event back in 2011. With its twin-turbo diesel (TTID4) engine, this rare Aero Griffin isn’t just any high-mileage car—it’s a high-spec, historically significant machine that a true Saab enthusiast would be proud to own.

A Unique Piece of Saab’s History

This isn’t just another 9-3. Registered by Saab GB in 2011, this Aero Griffin Sportwagon was among a select few models used for promotional events and photoshoots, representing the brand’s vision and innovation. The possibility that this Saab might have been part of an exclusive golf event adds a layer of intrigue, making it more than a car—it’s a part of Saab’s rich narrative. With such a distinctive history, it’s essential that this vehicle finds an owner who appreciates Saab’s heritage.

This image shows the Saab 9-3 Sportwagon Griffin, which was initially featured in promotional photo shoots.
This image shows the Saab 9-3 Sportwagon Griffin, which was initially featured in promotional photo shoots.

Built to Last—301,000 Miles and Still Going

Reaching 301,000 miles is no small feat for any vehicle, let alone one that likely retains its original engine and gearbox. Despite a few signs of wear—rust on the rear wheel arches, some scrapes, and a missing exhaust silencer—this 9-3 Aero Griffin has maintained its integrity. The resilience of Saab’s TTID4 engine, known for its reliability, is on full display here, making this car a remarkable example of Saab’s durability and performance. This mileage is proof of the car’s enduring reliability with proper maintenance and care.

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High-End Features and Griffin Luxury

The Aero Griffin model is equipped with features that set it apart from standard 9-3s. This includes dual electric front seats with driver-side memory, Bi-Xenon cornering headlights, and satellite navigation—all staples of the Griffin’s premium specifications. Inside, the car has leather seats, with the passenger and rear seats showing minimal signs of wear, reflecting that this car has been primarily driver-used for most of its life. The Bi-Xenon headlights with cornering ability are not just practical but also add a touch of elegance, illuminating the road in true Saab style.

The interior of this 2011 Saab 9-3 Aero Griffin Sportwagon features well-preserved leather seats, though the steering wheel shows noticeable wear.
The interior of this 2011 Saab 9-3 Aero Griffin Sportwagon features well-preserved leather seats, though the steering wheel shows noticeable wear.

A Project Worth Saving

While the car has stood the test of time, it does have some battle scars. Alongside cosmetic flaws like rusty arches and minor dents, there are mechanical needs that the current owner, a qualified technician, is willing to discuss with potential buyers. This commitment to transparency ensures that the next owner is fully informed and prepared to invest in maintaining this piece of Saab history. With the right TLC, this Aero Griffin can continue to be a stunning and reliable vehicle for years to come.

Why This Aero Griffin Deserves a Saab Enthusiast

This Saab 9-3 Aero Griffin Sportwagon isn’t just another used car—it’s a rare collector’s item that reflects Saab’s legacy in every mile it has covered. For a true Saab enthusiast, this car offers an opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. Given the car’s story and its role as a brand ambassador in its prime, it would be a shame to see it dismantled or scrapped. The seller has made it clear that he’s looking for someone who recognizes this and is willing to preserve it for what it represents.

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The renowned TTID engine showcases Saab's mastery in twin-turbo technology, delivering impressive performance and proven longevity.
The renowned TTID engine showcases Saab’s mastery in twin-turbo technology, delivering impressive performance and proven longevity.

The Appeal of a High-Mileage Saab

In a world where many view high-mileage cars with suspicion, this Saab 9-3 Aero Griffin is a reminder that well-maintained vehicles can go the distance. Saabs are known for their durability and longevity, and this model is a testament to that reputation. With a cambelt change recorded at 260,000 miles, it’s clear that this car has received the necessary attention to keep it running smoothly. For those who understand the value of high-mileage vehicles, especially Saabs, this Aero Griffin is an irresistible choice.

A Rare Opportunity at an Unbeatable Price

This 2011 Saab 9-3 Aero Griffin Sportwagon isn’t just a high-mileage vehicle; it’s a tribute to Saab’s legacy of quality engineering and stylish design. Listed at £1,195, it presents an incredible value for anyone passionate about preserving Saab’s heritage.

With rare features, a unique backstory, and the potential for a new chapter, this car deserves to be appreciated and cared for. For the right Saab enthusiast, this is not only an opportunity to drive a piece of Saab history but also a chance to contribute to the preservation of a brand that has always stood for innovation and resilience.

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Goran Aničić
the authorGoran Aničić
For over 15 years, Goran Aničić has been passionately focused on Saab automobiles and everything related to them. His initial encounter with Saab cars took place back in 2003 when the first Saab 9-3 and sedan version were introduced. At that moment, he was captivated by the car's Scandinavian design logic and top-notch engineering, and everything that followed stemmed from that first encounter. Later on, through his work at the editorial team of the Serbian automotive magazines "Autostart" and later "AutoBild," he had the opportunity to engage more closely with Saab vehicles. In 2008, he tested the latest Saab cars of that time, such as the Saab 9-3 TTiD Aero and Saab 9-3 Turbo X. In 2010, as the sole blogger from the region, he participated in the Saab 9-5ng presentation in Trollhättan, Sweden. Alongside journalists from around the world, he got a firsthand experience of the pinnacle of technological offerings from Saab at that time. Currently, Goran owns two Saabs: a 2008 Saab 9-3 Vector Sportcombi with a manual transmission, and a Saab 9-3 Aero Griffin Sport Sedan from the last generation, which rolled off the production line in Trollhättan in December 2011.

4 Comments

  • If Saab had brought their turbo diesel to the U.S. back in 2004 they would have made a lot of money. To pass emissions they could have cheated like Volkswagen did. Yes they would have gotten caught but they would still be around today just like Volkswagen is. Instead Saab did the right thing and lost everything, while others cheated and got away with it. So sad to see this reality as part of our world today but here it is.

  • Vauxhall Cavalier chassis, FIAT engine and a Toyota gearbox. I had a 2008 Sportwagon and whilst I loved it, it wasn’t a proper SAAB.

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