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The Enthusiast Spirit Lives On
Saab may have stopped producing new cars, but the passion among its owners remains as strong as ever. While some brands fade into obscurity, Saab continues to thrive within an active community of dedicated enthusiasts who refuse to let the legacy die. One such example is Miguel Merchan, a Saab owner who transformed his diesel-powered Saab 9-3 TTiD from a daily commuter into a capable track car. His experience at Donington Park, one of the UK’s most iconic race circuits, highlights how Saab’s engineering still holds up in a competitive environment.
Turning a Commuter Car into a Track Weapon
At first glance, a diesel-powered Saab might not seem like the ideal choice for track use. However, the 9-3 TTiD is no ordinary diesel car. With its twin-turbocharged 1.9-liter engine, it offers a strong balance of power and efficiency. From the factory, this model was available in multiple power outputs—130 HP, 160 HP, and 180 HP—but Miguel saw its potential and pushed it even further.
His modifications include:
- ECU remap, boosting the power to 230+ HP and 480+ Nm of torque
- Bilstein B6 shocks with Eibach springs for improved cornering
- Bigger intercooler to handle increased boost pressure
- Pipercross panel filter for enhanced airflow
- Upgraded braking system, swapping 302mm discs for 314mm performance brakes
These upgrades transformed the car’s handling and acceleration, allowing it to keep up with and even outperform newer, more powerful cars on the track.
The Donington Park Experience
Taking a modified car to the track is always a true test of performance. Miguel’s GoPro footage from Donington Park showcases the 9-3 TTiD’s impressive handling, particularly in late braking and high-speed cornering. Despite being a diesel sedan, it held its own against much newer and lighter sports cars, including a Mazda MX-5 and an Audi RS3.
The video reveals:
- Precise cornering, thanks to the Bilstein and Eibach suspension setup
- Powerful braking, although his EBC Yellowstuff pads disintegrated under heat
- Surprising agility, allowing him to overtake faster cars
His experience, however, highlighted the need for better track-specific brake pads. After experiencing brake fade, he is now considering Bluestuff compound pads or a Brembo caliper upgrade.
Why Saab Enthusiasts Still Take Their Cars to the Track
Despite the age of Saab models, their engineering integrity remains unmatched. The rigid chassis, well-balanced weight distribution, and turbocharged engines make them ideal candidates for track-day fun. Saab’s history in motorsport, including rallying and endurance racing, contributes to their capability.
The Saab community remains active in performance tuning, DIY upgrades, and track days. Events like this one at Donington Park prove that a well-maintained Saab can still go head-to-head with modern performance cars.
From the Road to the Track: The Dual-Purpose Saab
Unlike many track cars that spend most of their time in a garage, Miguel’s Saab remains his daily driver. With 193,000 miles on the clock, it’s a testament to the durability of Saab’s diesel engines. Few other cars can serve as both a daily commuter and a track-ready machine while retaining comfort and reliability.
His build showcases what makes Saabs special—a balance of performance, safety, and practicality. Whether it’s taking on the daily commute, a road trip, or a weekend at the track, the Saab 9-3 TTiD delivers
The Legacy of Saab Performance Lives On
Miguel’s experience is just one example of how Saab enthusiasts continue to push the limits. These cars are not just nostalgic relics but machines that still deliver real-world performance. The community’s passion for upgrades, tuning, and motorsport ensures that Saab’s legacy remains strong.
For anyone considering a track day experience with a Saab, Miguel’s build proves that with the right modifications, these cars are more than capable of taking on the challenge. Whether it’s overtaking an RS3 or setting a personal best at Donington Park, Saab owners continue to embrace the brand’s sporting DNA
I had one of these as a standard, as a Saab 93 TTiD 180 Aero, absolutely loved it as a car! It’s still going strong and it’s missed.