New owner - 9-3 Aero Cab - Performance upgrade?

[pdavison]

Just become the proud owner of a 2004 Aero Convertible in black with cream leather.

Lovely car so far but just wondered if it was sensible to look at upping the performance via an ECU upgrade (e.g. Hirsch) or whether being front wheel drive it wouldn't actually give me any more usable power ... any thoughts?

[John D9395]

I have an 05 Aero rag top with the Hirsch re map, 210 - 235 bhp from memory.

Drives well, and worth doing.

Have also driven an Aero with a 'Super Chips' re map, 210 - 240 bhp. I felt like it had more power, but wasn't delivered in such a smooth way.

Also have the Hirsch springs fitted, dropping it by about 10mm I think. Certainly improves how the car looks

[Munkeyfeet]

I have the full 250bhp Hirsch on mine. Massive difference especially in 3rd and 4th gear.

Stage one is the ECU chip - 210 - 230.

They the put a bogger intercooler etc to get it up to 250

Get the shocks - they are £400 - much improved look, less body roll and handles far better.

[pdavison]

Thanks guys, I may look into the stage one option. Any idea on what it costs?

The springs could be worth a look although the car handles well already so I'm wondering if it's already been done. I do get what I can only describe as the occasional clunk type noise over bumps but can't quite work out if it's just normal or whether there may be something up.

[boomboompow]

pdavison said:

Thanks guys, I may look into the stage one option. Any idea on what it costs?

The springs could be worth a look although the car handles well already so I'm wondering if it's already been done. I do get what I can only describe as the occasional clunk type noise over bumps but can't quite work out if it's just normal or whether there may be something up.

I get this in my '05 Aero as well; had a good look myself and the car has just gone through it's service (and MOT) where I asked for the suspension o be given ta good inspection. Apparently there's no impending issues so I reckon it's just normal. I've got the stage 1 upgrade on my saloon and can only recommend it (now, if only the pennies could stretch to the Hirsch springs )

[James1969]

I have a 2007 Aero convertible which is a 2.8 with the full Hirsch kit inc brakes, suspension, exhaust etc etc. Its got about 280bhp and seems to deliver it very well indeed considering its front wheel drive. I would not hesitate to go for the upgrade. Must say though that the suspension on my car is a bit low and the front spoiler is rather vulnerable at that ride height! Not sure that I would go for that option but my car came with it all on. I believe that mine is 20mm lower than normal.