"Red Box" - NOT the DVD thing...

[Badwolf]

I'm a Noob so I need some assistance understanding what an APC "Red Box" is. Is it a big deal? Is it something to look for? Is it something that should be done? Is it expensive to obtain and costly to install? Is it at all worth it?

Elsa's previous owner stated he had one in a different car, and was able to reach quite high top speeds; he was an older guy and liked SAABs, so I'm figuring he wasn't likely blowing smoke.

I'd love to hear what people think.

Thanks.

[rpiereck]

The APC Red Box is basically an ECU reflash for more power, much like you would buy from a tuner. It's just that the factory painted them red and they were a factory part. It basically allows for higher boost levels, hence more power, to be reached.

I believe the genuine SAAB Red Boxes are quite rare and coveted items, hence expensive. I don't know how much you would pay for one. Some companies like Swedish Dynamics sell their own reflashed ECUs that supposedly allow for even higher power than the factory Red Box: Red Series APC

[peva]

The APC Red Box is basically an ECU reflash for more power, much like you would buy from a tuner. It's just that the factory painted them red and they were a factory part. It basically allows for higher boost levels, hence more power, to be reached.

I believe the genuine SAAB Red Boxes are quite rare and coveted items, hence expensive. I don't know how much you would pay for one. Some companies like Swedish Dynamics sell their own reflashed ECUs that supposedly allow for even higher power than the factory Red Box: Red Series APC

No it's not an ECU reflash. There is no software involved and the box is moulded red, not just painted. They are not that rare, and you can modify a black box to red box power and more by a few component tweaks. List of APC boxes and modification details here; 900aero.com APC mod
I see them occasionally on Ebay for around £70-£100. Why bother? If you are halfway decent with a soldering iron you can do just as well and more if you wish by following the above link. And then if you are really bothered, spray the box red.