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About Saab 900

The 900 is a car that was made by [Saab Automobile] from 1978 until 1998 in two generations. The first generation from 1978 to 1993 is known as the "classic"; the generation from 1994 to 1998 is known as the [Saab 900 (NG)]. The 900 is based on the [Saab 99] chassis, though with a longer front end to meet U.S. frontal crash regulations. The [drag coefficient] is 0.34. The 900 was produced in 2- and 4-door sedan, and 3- and 5-door coupe configurations; additionally, from 1986, a cabriolet ([convertible]) model was produced. There were single- and twin-[carburetor], [fuel-injection] and [turbocharger] engines, including both full pressure (FPT) and in European models during the early 90s, low pressure turbos (LPT).

Overview {{Infobox Automobile| image = | name = Saab 900| manufacturer = [Saab Automobile| successor = [Saab 900 (NG)| class = [Entry-level luxury car]/[Compact executive car, [Sweden][Uusikaupunki], [Finland
2-door notchback
3-door [liftback] ([hatchback])
4-door [sedan]
5-door [liftback] ([hatchback])] [Saab B engine] [Straight-4]
2.0 L [Saab H engine#B201] [Straight-4]
2.0 L [Saab H engine#B202] [Straight-4]
2.1 L [Saab H engine#B212] [Straight-4]| transmission = 4-speed [Manual transmission]
5-speed [Manual transmission]
3-speed [Borg-Warner] T-37 [Automatic transmission]-->The Saab 900 was a front-engined, front-wheel-drive [compact car] with a longitudinally-mounted, 45-degree slanted, inline 4-cylinder engine, [double wishbone] front [Suspension (vehicle)] and beam-axle rear suspension. In its heyday, the 900 was popular with drivers who enjoyed its comfort, safety, practicality (especially hatchbacks), and highway driving manners.

Like its predecessor the 99, the 900 contained a number of unusual design features that distinguish it from most other cars. Firstly, the engine was installed 'backwards', with power delivered from the crank at the front of the car. Secondly, the transmission, technically a [transaxle], bolted directly to the bottom of the engine to form the oil pan (albeit with separate oil lubrication). Power from the crank would thus be delivered out of the engine at the front, then transferred down and back to the transmission below, via a set of chain-driven primary gears. Similarly, Minis also had their gearbox mounted directly below the engine; however, the Mini gearbox and engine shared the same oil, whereas the Saab 900 (and 99) gearboxes contained a separate sump for engine oil.

Very few front-wheel drive cars used a longitudinally-mounted engine configuration. Fewer still used a [double wishbone suspension] design. Refined over several decades of two-digit Saab models, the 900's double wishbone design provided excellent handling and road feel. The rear suspension comprised a typical [beam axle] design, stabilized with a [Panhard rod]. However, the attachment points between the axle and chassis made up an unusual configuration that essentially consists of two [Watt's linkage]s at either end of the axle: a lower control arm attaches the axle to the bottom of the vehicle, while an upper link attaches at the top but faces towards the rear, unlike a typical 4-link design with both lower and upper links facing forward.

Early models did not have [sway bar]s; they began appearing on certain models in 1985 and in U.S. and possibly other markets, became standard on all trim levels by the late 1980s. The sway bars decreased body roll, but at the expense of some ride comfort and when driven aggressively, increased inside wheelspin. The front and rear bars' [diameter]s were unchanged throughout the model's run.

Stylistically, the 900 utilized a deeply curved front [windshield] for the best [driver visibility], calling attention to the marque's aircraft legacy. The hatchback, or [Combi coupé] cars were exceptionally spacious, if not universally loved for their aesthetics. Also underscoring their aircraft lineage, the 900's dashboard was curved to enable easy reach of all controls and featured gauges lit up from the front. Saab engineers placed all controls and gauges in the dashboard according to their frequency of use and/or importance so that the driver need divert his gaze from the road for the shortest possible time and by the smallest angle. This is why, for example, the oft-used radio is placed so high in the dashboard.

The 900 underwent minor cosmetic design changes for 1987, including restyled front-end and bumpers that went from a vertical to a more sloped design; sheetmetal body parts were unchanged. Being a small car factory, for economic reasons, Saab kept the basic undercarriage more or less unchanged throughout the 900's production run.

The Saab 900 could be ordered with different options. One highly sought-after option was called the Aero or Special Performance Group (SPG), as it was known in the U.S. The Aero/SPG incorporated (depending on the market and model year) a body skirt; a sport-suspension (1987+) that included shorter, stiffer springs, stiffer shocks, and swaybars; leather seats; premium stereo, and air conditioning. Each of these features could, of course, be ordered independently from Saab's Accessories Catalog for fitment to standard models. Power output varied by model year and market but 900S and 900 Turbo models produced after 1985 were fitted with a [multi-valve] turbocharged engine, while the basic 900 kept the earlier [multi-valve] engine.

A 1989 Saab 900 SPG owned by Peter Gilbert of Wisconsin, was driven over a million miles, before being donated to The Wisconsin Automotive Museum. Peter Gilbert claimed a million miles out of the turbocharging unit in addition to the engine itself.

History The 1979 900 was available in three versions: The GL had the single-carb 99 hp/73.5 kW engine, the GLS had twin carburetors for 106 hp/79.5 kW, the EMS and GLE had [fuel injection] for 116 hp/87 kW, and the 900 Turbo produced 143 [Horsepower]/107 [Watt#Kilowatt]. A five-speed transmission was introduced in the EMS and Turbo for 1980.

The 900 [sedan] was introduced in 1981 along with the phase-out of the old [Saab B engine] in favor of the lighter [Saab H engine]. In the early 1980s, most 900's were produced in Trollhättan. However, coinciding with the production of the 9000, more 900's were produced elsewhere. The Valmet plant in Finland, referenced below under the 900C, also produced the non-convertible as evidenced by one previously owned by this author and imported by the SAAB US distributor. The plant in Arlöv (now closed), near Malmö, also produced some 900s.

A big change for 1982 was the introduction of Saab's [Automatic Performance Control] (APC), a.k.a. boost controller. The APC employed a [Engine knocking] sensor, allowing the engine to use different grades of gasoline without engine damage. Another new feature that year was the introduction of central locking doors (on the GLE and Turbo). [Asbestos]-free brakes were introduced in 1983, an industry first. A new model also appeared that year in Sweden — the GLi, which used the fuel injected engine.

1984 saw the introduction of the [multi-valve] [DOHC] [Saab H engine#B202] engine. With a turbocharger and intercooler, it could produce 175 hp/129 kW in the Turbo 16 model (less for [catalytic converter]-equipped engines). The Turbo 16 Aero had a body kit allowing the car to reach 210 [Kilometers per hour] (130 [Miles per hour]). A different grille and 3-spoke steering wheel appeared across all models.

The dual-carb model (and "GL" nomenclature) was gone for 1985. Now, the base 900 had the single-carburetor engine, while the 900i added [fuel injection]. Two turbocharged models were offered: The 900 Turbo had the 8-valve engine, while the T16S had the 16-valve intercooled unit. The 8-valve turbo had the [intercooler] the next year, while the 16-valve cars had hydraulic engine mounts. 1986 also marked the introduction of the 900 convertible in North America.

A new grille, headlights, and so-called "integrated" bumpers freshened the 900's look for 1987, though the sheet metal was unchanged. Several common parts for the 900 and [Saab 9000] were introduced for 1988 model year, including brakes and wheel hubs. A water and oil cooled turbocharger (replacing the older oil-cooled unit) was also introduced to improve the unit's durability.

In each of the seasons 1987 and 1988, there was a special 'one-make' race series, in the [United Kingdom], called the [Saab Turbo Mobil Challenge], sponsored by [Saab Great Britain] and [Mobil]. It was run by the [BARC].

The 8-valve engines were phased out in 1989 and 1990, with the turbo versions having been removed in North American markets by the end of 1984; North American 900S models received the non-turbo 16-valve engine for 1986. A non-turbo 16-valve engine replaced the 8-valve FI unit in the 900i (900S in [North America]) as well, while the [carbureted] engines were dropped. Larger pinion bearings were fitted to manual gearboxes for 1989 to improve their strength and reliability. A low pressure turbo engine was available in European markets in 1990 as well. [Anti-lock brake]s were introduced in 1990, and were standard on Turbo models and - along with a driver's side airbag - were standardized for all North American market cars.

A 2.1 [Liter] (2119 cc/129 in³) ([Saab H engine#B212]) engine was introduced in 1991. This engine was available in the [United States] until the end of the original 900, but in most of [Europe], this engine was replaced a year later with the earlier [Saab H engine#B202] because of [tax] regulations in some European countries for engines with a displacement of more than 2000 [Cubic centimeter].

By 1990, the Saab 900 no longer offered the mesh wheels. There was also a change in the door locks, which carried over to the 900NG.

Front seats from the [Saab 9000] were standard from 1991 on and electronically-adjustable ones were available as an option.

"Classic" 900 production ended on [September 26], [1993], with a new [Opel Vectra]-based [Saab 900 (NG)] entering production shortly afterwards. The final classic convertibles were still sold as 1994 models, with the Special Edition commanding top dollar in the resale market even today.

In all, 908,817 Saab 900s were built, including 48,888 convertibles.

==Convertible==In the mid 1980s, the president of Saab-Scania of America, [Robert J. Sinclair], suggested a [convertible] version to increase sales. The first prototype was built by ASC, American Sunroof Company (now [American Specialty Cars]). Similarly, Lynx Motors International Ltd produced two "convertible" models, just prior to the official 1986 launch.

The [Trollhättan] [design] department, headed by [Björn Envall], based its version on the 3-door hatchback while the Finnish plant used the sturdier 2-door version, which also looked better and was therefore selected for production. The initial production was not planned to be large but the orders kept coming in and a classic was born.

The new car was shown for the first time at the [Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung] (IAA) in [Frankfurt] in the autumn of 1983. The first prototype aroused enormous interest and in April 1984, Saab decided to put the car in production at [Valmet]. The production of the first 900 convertible started during the spring of 1986.

The convertible usually had a [multi-valve] [turbocharger] engine, some with [intercooler], but it was also offered in certain markets with a fuel-injected 2.1 L [naturally-aspirated engine] from 1991 on.

Influenced by [General Motors] (GM), in 1994 the "New Generation" (NG) 900 SE, based on the [Opel Vectra] chassis, was introduced. While this design contained styling cues reminiscent of the classic 900, the GM 900 was fundamentally a different car. For many fans of the marque, the GM 900 marked the end of Saab's technology-driven design philosophy and, in their view, the beginning of the [Trademark dilution] of the SAAB [brand].

The cabriolet/convertible, however, was made on the 'classic' chassis for an additional year. This model is affectionately known as "The Goose", as, in some markets, the emblem on the back of the SE version reads "Saab 900 SE", which looks a bit like "GOOSE."

Engines Saab introduced a turbocharger in 1978 in its [Saab 99] Turbo with the [Saab B engine] (based on the [Triumph Slant-4 engine] designed for Saab by [Triumph Motor Company]). This engine was also used in early 900 Turbo models, which in export markets made Saab a household brand.

The B-engine was further designed into the [Saab H engine], which was used through 1993 (and 1994 cabriolets). The H-engine is very durable, and due to a fairly standardized [engine management system], can be easily [engine tuning] to 197 hp/147 kW, and with further bolt-on modifications, to the 247 hp/184 kW range. Saab used [Robert Bosch GmbH]-made mechanical K-Jetronic continuous fuel injection in the fuel injected and 8-valve turbocharged versions, and the Bosch LH 2.2 and 2.4 and [Lucas Automotive] electronic fuel injection systems were used in the 16-valve versions. The 2.1 L 16-valve engine used the Bosch LH 2.4.2 electronic fuel injection system.

What set the 900 Turbo apart from its turbo-equipped competitors, especially in the early- and mid-1980s, was the development and use of the [Automatic Performance Control] (APC) boost controller. The system allowed the engine to run at the limits of [engine knocking]. The system had a knock sensor attached to the motor block and if knocking of any kind was present, the APC-system would decrease the charge pressure by opening a [wastegate], a bypass to the exhaust. This enabled the use of various [Gasoline#Octane rating] and also made the use of the turbocharger safer for the engine. Later 900 Aeros and Carlssons had special APC controllers in red enclosures (so-called "redbox" APCs) that provided more boost and rose power to 175hp.

At first, Saab used a [Garrett Systems] turbocharger (T3), which was oil-cooled. From 1988 through 1990, watercooled T3s were fitted. In 1990, Saab fitted [Mitsubishi] TE-05 turbochargers in the SPG models only; in 1991, all 900 Turbos were fitted with the TE-05. Also watercooled, the TE-05 was slightly smaller than the Garrett T3s, providing improved throttle response and quicker spool-up. The TE-05 is unique in that its exhaust inlet flange utilizes a Garrett T3 pattern.

Engines:

1979–1989 — 2.0 [Liter] (1985 [Cubic centimeter]) [Saab H engine#B201] [naturally-aspirated], single-carb, 99 [Horsepower]/73.5 [Watt#Kilowatt] at 5200 [Revolutions per minute] and 163 N·m (119 [Foot-pound force])
1979–1984 — 2.0 L (1985 cc) [Saab H engine#B201] NA, dual-carb, 106 hp/79.5 kW at 5200 rpm and 165 N·m (121 ft·lbf)
1979–1989 — 2.0 L (1985 cc) [Saab H engine#B201] NA, [fuel injection], 116 hp/87 kW at 5500 rpm and 168 N·m (123 ft·lbf) at 3700 rpm
1979–1985 — 2.0 L (1985 cc) [Saab H engine#B201] [Turbocharger], 143 hp/107 kW at 5000 rpm and 235 N·m (173 ft·lbf)
1986–1989 — 2.0 L (1985 cc) [Saab H engine#B201] [Intercooler] turbo, 138-155 hp/103-114 kW at 5000 rpm and 235 N·m (173 ft·lbf)
1984–1993 — 2.0 L (1985 cc) [Saab H engine#B202] [multi-valve] turbo, 160-175 hp/118-129 kW at 5500 rpm and 255-273 N·m (188-201 ft·lbf)
1989–1993 — 2.0 L (1985 cc) [Saab H engine#B202] 16-valve, NA, 124-128 hp/93–96 kW at 6100 rpm and 170-177 N·m (125-130 ft·lbf)
1990–1993 — 2.0 L (1985 cc) [Saab H engine#B202] 16-valve low pressure turbo (LPT), 143 hp/107 kW at 5600 rpm and 202 N·m (149 ft·lbf)
–1994 — 2.0 L (1985 cc) [Saab H engine#B202] 16-valve intercooled turbo (FPT) in the convertible.
1991–1993 — 2.1 L (2119 cc) [Saab H engine#B212] NA, FI, 138 hp/103 kW at 6000 rpm and 180 N·m (133 ft·lbf)

Special Models 900 GLi Gold The Gold special edition was available in the UK in 1981 as the first 900 4 door Saloons, these had Turbo Spec Velour Interior finished in either Blue or Black with Gold pin stripes, twin air vent bonnet and fuel gauge showing tank contents in Litres.

900 Tjugofem The Tjugofem Saloon was released in a batch of 300 to celebrate SAABs 25th year in the UK (fitting, as tjugo-fem is Swedish for twenty-five). These had the 1985cc 8-Valve engine with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection. Interior trim was blue turbo velour with a special gear knob with the cars number. Exterior the model was a standard non-turbo apart from alloy wheels, Tjugofem pinstriping and Turbo style rear spoiler.jepp

900C 900C was built in [Uusikaupunki], [Finland] and in [Arlöv], Sweden just outside Malmö, was a late 1980s carburetted model. It used an eight-valve B201 engine with a single [carburetor] producing 100 BHP.

900EP The EP was a special [Ecopower] model for the Italian market. It uses a 16V low pressure turbo engine and has a pre-heated catalysor.

===900 CD===An even longer "Finlandia" version called the 900 CD was made at the [Valmet] factory in [Uusikaupunki], [Finland]. The 900 CD was 20 cm (7.9 in) longer than standard, by adding 10 cm (3.9 in) to both front and rear doors, but only the rear leg room was larger. Optional extras for the CD were a [leather] interior, reading lights, rear blinds, footrests, and even an in-car [telephone]. There was an even longer, VIP [limousine] version, also by Valmet. The CD was supplied in '[automatic transmission]' form only.

900 Enduro The Enduro was a special version of the 900 Turbo assembled by Saab Australia; only twelve 900 Enduros were made . The package consisted of large, flared fiberglass fenders, extra gauges (oil pressure, battery voltage and current drain) mounted where the radio usually was, improved suspension and big wheels and tires. To increase performance the wastegate was set at 17 psi (1.2 bar). Water injection came standard.

900 Lux The Lux was a special model available 1983 and 1984. It came in a two-tone paint, usually Slate Blue metallic on top and silver below.

900 SE The SE model was produced in May 1990 and came with 5 doors Irridium Blue with blue-pin stripes down the sides. The car also featured multi-spoke alloys, full electrics, grey leather seats and wood effect as standard. Only 300 were originally made for the UK market, with a choice of either a 2.0L N/A engine or 2.0L lpt version. For further reference to 900 special models read "Saab 99 and 900: The complete story". Later more SE version were made; however these were not part of the original limited run.

900 Carlsson The Carlsson was a special model made in honour of [Erik Carlsson]. It was a three-door 900 powered by a 1985 cc turbocharged engine with APC giving 185 BHP and fitted with twin chrome exhausts.

Conversions

Lynx Engineering produced two "convertible" models, just prior to the official 1986 launch.
A demountable camper module, the [Toppola], was created for the 3/5-door hatchback.
Coachbuilder Nilsson built a variant Saab never thought of - a wagon, the styling of which was incredibly well executed.
Limousine conversions are few, but effective.

Dealer Models Some SAAB dealers made special models. SAAB Wimbledon made the Sprint and the Sport. The Sprint had a special body kit, lower, stiffer springs, and Pirelli P7 on 7"x16" wheels. It also came with an intercooler, full colour coding and 3-spoke leather steering wheel. The Sport had alloy wheels, full colour coding and spoilers, uprated suspension, 3-spoke leather steering wheel, Clarion stereo and an electric aerial. Heuschmid GmbH offered options such as tuning, intercooler, suspensions tweaking and custom alloy wheels. EIA Motors of France made a series of 100 normally aspired 16 valve tuned to 158 BHP. Lynx Motors in the UK made a short run conversion of the two-door 900 shell to a convertible.

Specifications

Front track: 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Rear track: 1430 mm (56.3 in)
Ground clearance: 150 mm (5.9 in)
Weight distribution: 60/40 (unloaded), 51/49 (fully loaded)

Notes on specifications The tire supplier varies by market and model year. In 1982, the US market was supplied with Pirelli P6 (not to be confused with the current P6 4 Season) 195/60HR15 tires for the 900turbo and Pirelli P8 185/65SR15 for the 900 (called the 900GLi in some markets) and 900S (called the 900EMS in some markets). In 1990, the US market 900 (called the 900i in some other markets) was supplied with Pirelli P8. In 1992, there were several tire suppliers and at least one US market brochure stated that the US distributor cannot allocate cars by tire manufacturer.

Saab 900 (NG) {{Infobox Automobile|name=Saab 900 (NG)|image=|manufacturer=[Saab Automobile / [Compact executive car|successor=[Saab 9-3|platform=[GM2900 platform, [Sweden]
[Uusikaupunki], [Finland] (Convertible)]
[Opel Vectra]
[Saab 9-5
3-door [hatchback]
5-door [hatchback [Straight-4]
2.3 L [Saab H engine#B234] [Straight-4]
2.5 L [GM 54-Degree V6 engine] [V6
4-speed [automatic transmission]|similar=[Acura Integra]
[Infiniti G20]
[Volvo 850]-->The second-generation Saab 900 (also referred to as the GM900 or NG900 among enthusiasts) is a [compact executive car] which was produced by [Saab Automobile] from 1994 until 1998, when it was replaced by the [Saab 9-3] (in most markets; in 1999 in the USA). Based on GM's [GM2900 platform], the NG900 was a replacement for the "classic" first-generation [Saab 900]. Although it bore a family resemblance to its predecessor, the NG900 was an entirely new model.

Variants Variants included S (4-cylinder, non-turbo) and SE (4-cylinder turbo or V6) models in three-door, five-door and [convertible] body styles. For 1997 only, there was also a special edition 'Talladega' model, after a record-breaking endurance test in 1996, on the [Talladega Superspeedway].

Depending on market, the NG900 was available with a choice of 2.0L or 2.3L Saab 16-valve [DOHC] engines (Saab engine codes [Saab H engine#B204], [Saab H engine#B234]) in naturally aspirated or turbocharged form (2.0L only), as well as a 2.5L version of GM's European [GM 54-Degree V6 engine]. Engine management for the turbos was by Saab Trionic 5 with [Distributor#Direct Ignition] (SDI) and [Automatic Performance Control], and for non-turbos by [Robert Bosch GmbH] motronic fuel injection. A [distributor]-operated [ignition] was provided for naturally-aspirated engines in some markets.

In contrast to the 'classic' Saab 900 with its longitudinally-mounted engine and front-hinged hood (bonnet), the NG900 had a more-common [transversely-mounted engine] with rear-hinged hood (bonnet).

In 1998 marketing materials for the successor [Saab 9-3], Saab claimed over "1,100 improvements" had been made, although the new model was virtually indistinguishable to casual observers from the older model. The most significant from the drivers perspective being the replacement of the cable operated clutch for a hydraulic version. In many markets the 1998 models were sold as 9-3's, though in the US, the 9-3 name was introduced in model year 1999.

Sensonic The 'Sensonic' clutch variant, (available on the Turbo models only) provided a manual gear lever as in a standard manual-transmission car, but omitted the clutch pedal in favor of electronics which could control the clutch faster than the average driver.

When a driver started to move the gear shift knob/gear selector lever, a computer-controlled actuator operated the clutch. With the car in gear but stationary, the clutch was released only when gas was applied. If neither brake nor gas pedal was depressed, a warning tone sounded and a message flashed on the on-board display, and if no action was taken after 7 seconds, the engine was shut off.

Sensonic was discontinued after a short time, as it proved to be somewhat unreliable and expensive to repair.

The SAAB 900 handbook has an error, where it states that if the car is in gear and starts rolling backwards down a hill, the clutch will operate to stop it rolling back. This "Hill Start" mode was not actually implemented on the car.

Engines

2.0 L [Saab H engine#B204] 16-valve turbo [intercooler], 185 hp (136 kW)
2.0 L [Saab H engine#B204] normally-aspirated 16-valve four cylinder, 130 hp
2.0 L [Saab H engine#B204] normally-aspirated 16-valve four cylinder with no [balance shaft]s, 133 hp
2.3 L [Saab H engine#B234] normally-aspirated 16-valve four cylinder, 150 hp
2.5 L B258I [GM 54-Degree V6 engine] [V6], 24-valve, 170 hp DIN (125 kW)

Black Panel One Saab innovation, inspired by the company's roots in [aeronautics], was the 'Black Panel' feature (also known as Nightpanel). This allowed most instrument panel lights to be extinguished at night at the touch of a button, permitting less distraction during night driving. While Black Panel was active, other instruments could illuminate themselves as required to gain the driver's attention. This feature was carried over (renamed 'Night Panel') into [Saab 9-3] and [Saab 9-5] models.

Awards and Achievements 1998

Best in Class, cars $25,000-$35,000 (900 S Turbo) - Kiplinger's Personal Finance, USA

1996

Among Top Ten Sports Cars - Consumer's Review, USA
IBCAM British Steel Auto Design Award (Saab 900 2.0i Coupé) - The Institute of British Carriage and Automobile Manufacturers, Great Britain
Best Buy - Consumers' Digest, USA
New world-records for endurance, at Talladega, USA

1995

Top Car in its Price Class (Saab 900 SEV6) - American Automobile Association (AAA)
Best Buy - Consumers' Digest, USA
Among Top Ten Sports Cars - Consumer's Review, USA
Technology Award 1995 for Saab Sensonic - Autocar, Great Britain

1993 and 1994

Top Choice in annual Car of the Year reader poll - Autoweek Magazine, USA
Annual Special Prize To Saab Safeseat - Motoring Journalists' Club, Denmark
One of the Ten Most Improved Cars And Trucks of 1994 - Syndicated automotive experts Mike Anson and Steven Parker, USA
Import Car of the Year 1993/94 in Japan - RJC (Automotive Researchers and Journalists Conference of Japan), Japan
Best Buy - Consumers' Digest, USA
Excellent Swedish Design 1994 - The Swedish Society of Crafts and Design, Sweden
Family Car of the Year (900S) - Motoring '94, Canada
Scandinavian Design Prize 1994 - The Scandinavian Design Council (The Nordic Design Centres)
Executive Car of the Year 1994 - Portuguese Car Trophy
1993 Best Buy - Consumers' Digest, USA
1994 Design of the Year - Automobile magazine, USA
Best New Car - Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine, USA
Car of the Year 1993 - Moottori magazine, Finland
Best of What's New - Popular Science, USA
2nd Most Popular Car - STATUS magazine, Germany
1994 Technology of the Year (for Saab Trionic) - Automobile magazine, USA

Gallery Image:Saab Talladega2.jpg|Saab 900 "Talladega"Image:1997-Saab-900-SE-Talladega.jpg|Stock Saab 900 SE TalladegaImage:ng900secabrio.jpg|1995 Saab 900SE convertibleImage:SAABrina2.jpg|1996 Saab 900SE Turbo with some minor modifications

References External links

Saab VIN decoder
Saab Automobile
Saabmuseum.com
SAAB 900 (1979-1994) Special Editions A cornucopia of SAAB C900 miscellanea ...
Saab 900 story and Saab 900 Speedster prototype
IIHS Saab 900 Crash test

Information Reference: Wikipedia.org

Saab 900

Questions and Answers

SAAB 900 cd changer wiring connector square to round?

Q) Can anyone provide a wiring guide to connect the square connector from the saab 900 wiring loom in the boot, to a round connection in the Clarion cd changer. SAAB have none in stock in UK and Sweden, Halfords and others cannot help. Desperate!!

A) I was not aware that Saab made an aftermarket connection for the clarion cd changers? Thats a first for me. I've checked some suppliers for the aftermarket adaptors and none have connectors for Saab stereos in general. I think you may have to wait from the Saab dealer or alternatively you could change the stereo in the car to an aftermarket one and be done with the dilemma of a changer. You could get an MP3 player which can read MP3 discs or a USB key which would hold just as many CD's as a changer. I know there are facia trims and connections available for your Saab and its a relatively painless fit as well Hope it helps

Saab 900 Bulkhead Crack repair?

Q) My Saab 900 SE convertiable needs its bulkhead repaired there is a crack. how much do you think i should pay....Saab have said its £700 surely i can get it done cheaper.... thanks

A) have a look at http://www.saabscene.com/, you will need to register, there are a number of articles on this subject

saab 900 wont start?

Q) My clutch recently went in my 1998 saab 900. The key got stuck in the ignition due not being able to get into reverse. New clutch was fitted for £700. Key now out of ignition, cant start the car. Mechanics removed the battery to do clutch, but managed to kill the battery, now my key fob doesn't work either, although the lights do flash on it. The car is only worth £500 but have just spent £700 to not have it running, dont want to waste loads of money trying out different things, does anyone have any ideas? Garage are not being helpful, and are not taking any responsibility, so no use asking for their help, they are just threatening me to have the car removed. Rather than getting help with a legal battle, does anyone have any ideas how to get the car going again, even if it is completely getting rid of the immobiliser? Many thanks

A) Try a new battery in the fob. Make sure the door key lock is in the vertical position (sometimes the key can come out in the horizontal position which won't let the fob work), does the ignition pop up when the key is removed? Do you have a spare fob to try? Did the garage hook up the ground wire from the battery to the transmission, if not the starter will not engage, but other things may work, which could also affect the immobilizer. Is the car cranking and not starting or does it do nothing at all? Have the garage check some of these thing out, it may be something simple.

saab 900 radio code in?

Q) When I turn on the stereo in my 1998 saab 900 it comes up with this symbol; - - - - I then hold in the four radio buttons until code in appears. I enter the pin and then it doesn't say anything or turn on, it just reverts to this display; - - - - Driving long journey's can be very boring in silence, please help

A) Call the service number in your manual to get the number of the closest dealer. My dealer pulled my radio out for free. The four digit code was written right on top of my radio, which may be the case for you. The radio is VERY simple to remove using the pullers, which may be in the leather manual holder. I went to the dealer because they were going to use a serial code on the radio but didn't need to do so. AK

SAAB 900 cd player cable route?

Q) My SAAB 900 has no cd changer link cable installed. I have bought one, does anyone have any idea how to install it??

A) Depends where you want it, its not difficult though, if u want a need job, remove ur radio from the dash board,drop the wire down, unscrew the underneath of the dash, although with the saab you might had to take (if it has one) the wooden facia off to get to the screws, which knowing saab are stars. fish your wire through, under the carpet into where ever you want the changer. hope this helps

saab 900 head gasget gone how much £££?

Q) can anyone give me a rough price to get a head gasget done on my saab 900 1997 model 2ltr

A) id charge about £180 includin parts and labour. excluding crack test and head skim which is highly advisable

Crack in Bulkhead for a Saab 900 SE Convertible?

Q) I recently went to get my Saab 900 SE convertible M plate diagnosed by a Saab dealer they told me that the bulkhead has a crack. Which is a MOT failure. To get a new part its £700 including service and VAT. Although the mechanic said this is a MOT failure but I’ve got till June till that runs out. I also read somewhere that Saab are paying for Bulkheads (if found with cracks) to be replaced. can someone recommend me a good mechanic or suggest what i should do. Ben

A) Well if SAAB are paying for the work to be done - you really need to contact them via their UK head office - this is a major fault on a car.

Another 1998 saab 900 immobiliser question?

Q) I am pretty sure that it is my key fob which needs reprograming to be able to turn off the immobiliser to be able to start the car. The question is that I live nearly 100 miles from the nearest Saab garage. Do I need to get the car to the garage to get the key fob reset with the key, is it possible to get someone out to the car? Or can I just take the key fob and key to the garage without the car? I dont have a spare set of keys.

A) If the fob is indeed the problem, you will need to go to the dealer or to a garage that does a lot of work to SAAB's and has a Tech2 scan tool with SAAB software to program the fob to the car, and yes they need the car also. If the car is locked with the fob and the will not disarm the alarm, you will need a new fob and immobilizer module and have them programed to the car You could call Goldwing Saab for a used module and fob, there website is http://goldwingsaab.com/asp/default.asp

saab 900 1998 key fob?

Q) I have changed the batteries in my key fob, it now flashes when I press a button, but doesnt link up with the car, even after pressing the button three times, I dont have a spare to compare it to, is it supposed to flash or be a solid light?

A) Did it work prior to changing the batteries? When holding down the button, it should stay light as long as you hold the button. Sometimes the contact for the battery needs to be cleaned, try a pencil eraser to clean the contacts. Did you install the two batteries the right way, both with the numbers facing up? Does the truck button work? You may need a new remote. New or used remotes need to be programed to your car.

saab 900 keeps stopping&starting,any ideas?

A) When was the last maintenance(tune up) done? Is there a light on the dash? Get the car scanned.

Saab 900 Convertible noise?

Q) When I go over bumps in my 95 saab 900 convertible. There is a rattle from the rear shocks?

A) (1). Check rear strut/shocks sometimes they rattle internally (2). Check for lose or broken suspension parts or worn rubber bushings You may have to take it to a dealer or mechanic that specializes in shocks and brakes.

saab 900 are they good cars?

Q) should I buy a saab 900 10 years old P or R reg, what are the benifts and its downfall.

A) Hi, saab 900 is GM and based on a Vauxhall vectra platform. Parts are easy to get, and very reasonably priced. You can get 2.0 engines and 2.3 both can come with or without turbo... My 900 saab 2.0 non turbo has done 200.000 kms now and hasn't missed a beat. They are very practical, reliable safe,comfortable, easy to work on (with turbo a bit harder) reasonably economical. And will go for many many troublefree miles.They haven't got a cambelt (Chain) some have direct ignition(costly to replace if fails) other normal coils....I can highly recommend Saab to anybody.( I have worked on a few,owned a couple and know plenty happy owners) Only downfall is its Vauxhall origin, but the people at Saab have done realy well to make you forget that!

1995 Saab 900 turbo compression test?

Q) I just had my compression / leakdown test done on my 1995 Saab 900 SE turbo(165k miles). It showed approx. 150 PSI on all 4 cylinders, they were all about the same. I looked up the compression ratio and it is 9.2:1 Should I be worried about these compression readings?

A) no your car is fine this is fine you should only worry if one is really lower or nothing at all

1997 SAAB 900 Convertable will not start?

Q) My 1997 Saab 900 Convertable will not start appears it is not getting fuel, I sprayed fuel in the throttle body the vehicle started and died I think it could be the fuel pump relay or the fuel pump I am not sure were the relay is or how to get to the fuel pump. Please help Thank you. Howard

A) Listen to Tony N., He knows his Saabs well. I can think of nothing to add.

why is my saab 900 a gas guzzler?

Q) Hi, I have a 93 Saab 900 se, it has 4 cyl, engine is 2.1 L and the specifications are 18 mpg, why is it so low?? I know it's a heavy car, and the auto transmission only has 3 gears, but still shouldn't it have better mpg by general standards?? or do you know any additive that improves fuel economy?? I'll appreciate your comments

A) Well, right there isn't anything called the 900se, but all the 900's from that year do have a 2.1 L and get 18/21 so all you need to do is go back and look at what the model is and then we can help you. Hmm .. well I guess the turbo is only 2.0 and it get's better mileage.

Looking at a "winter beater" Saab 900 (1996) "runs and looks good"according to owner, any advice? (price 500)

Q) I have a new truck that the wife drives (2006 Ram) but need something for my job (nights, so it can look like crap) I owned a Saab 9000CD that did actually start every day I owned it, but I rang up 3000.00 in repairs in one year, and sold it. I have heard the 900 series much more reliable, and run/work quite well, any comments?

A) I own a 1983 900 with 276,000 miles on it. Saabs are quirky cars. If you're not mechanically inclined, even though they don't break down often, stay away from them. Like the commercial says "born from jets". What they don't say is that they are harder to work on than jets!! Regarding a winter car, my heater takes miles to produce any heat unless you partially drain the radiator.

I am considering buying a 1997-98 Saab 900 or 1999 Saab 9-3. Which is more reliable?

Q) In doing reserach online, I have gotten a lot of mixed reviews. People talk about the increased safety and performance on the '99 Saab 9-3, others talk about the 9-3's propensity to eat motors (at a cost of $4,000 plus per time). The 900 sounds to be more mechanically reliable, but gets worse gas mileage and may not be quite as safe. But I don't know for sure. I am decent on keeping up with scheduled maintenance, but am looking for a car to take to 200,000 miles plus. Any advice? Thanks!

A) The "new generation" 900 was a minor disaster for SAAB. I owned two of them, and one was worse than the other. One was rear ended by a big SUV, and everyone walked away uninjured, so I can't fault them for safety. But these were not 200,000 mile cars, neither of mine made 100k. Very troublesome, not a car to own after the warranty expires. Given your choice, go with the 9-3. When you buy a used SAAB, make sure the timing belt has been replaced on schedule. Plan on getting it changed immediately after you buy, to avoid the hand grenade motor problem.

Where can a person buy Saab valve adjusting shims for a 1985 Saab 900 8V engine?

Q) I am trying to buy valve adjusting shims for a 1985 Saab 900 8V engine. I have checked a lot of places. There are many sites on the internet that sell all types of Saab engine parts but no shims. A couple of the sites had shims listed but were out of stock. Any suggestions?

A) How about drive down to the local dealership's parts dept. and pick them up there.

where to find engine kits for saab 900?

Q) engine rebuild kit for 1994 saab 900 se turbo 2.0 also, will a 2.5 or 3.0 v6 fit and would I need to get new mounts might need a tranny too

A) The V6's for that vintage are crap motors. The 2 liter is a bulit that can run over 400hp stock. What you need to do is check out Nordik or Saabnet's performance board. There's a lot of Euro-Ricers on the Saabnet board but a few guys do know their stuff. As far as "kits" go the Saab 900 just wasn't a big enough sell and not a hit with the tuner crowd to get aftermarket companies making out of the box kits. There are a few mom and pops that do ofer upgrades but I'm not sure who as my 89' 900 is too old for them. Good luck.

Where can i find the aluminum colored bumper strip for my 1993 saab 900 turbo?

Q) Its the small 14mm strip found on the front and back bumper it needs to be one that fits the classic 900 not the new generation saab. Its not bright chrome its like a silver aluminum color. I found some at partsforsaabs online but its not the same thing. Its cheesy looking and shiny chrome.