Daily demonstrations at 11am, free with admission!

Saab 900 Turbo – 1992

saab-900-turbo-16v-1990-web1.jpg

In 1978, Saab debuted the replacing its long-serving 99 model. Saab kept much of the 99’s body lines, but it was a complete redesign from the front seats forward, making the 900 much longer and lower than the 99. This was done in order to meet stricter US crash regulations; the North American market was increasingly important to Saab’s overall sales.One could order a 900 as a three-, four-, or five-door model, and even a two-door convertible or coupe. Power output ranged from the base GL’s 99hp to the Turbo’s 143hp, all based on the same inline-block.

Many Saab innovations made their way into the 900 as well, including headlight wipers/washers, electrically-heated seats, console-mounted ignition (for knee protection in a crash), and self-repairing bumpers. The 900 was also the first car to have an in-cabin air filtration system, much to the delight of allergy sufferers.Asbestos-free brakes, an industry first, were installed on all 1983 900s, and in 1984, the 16 valve DOHC B202 engines were introduced. 900 Turbos now had 175hp on tap; impressive for a front-wheel drive car of the 1980s.1985 saw the introduction of the new “Griffin” logo of the combined Saab/Scania corporation, followed by a facelift in 1987.Production of the “Classic” 900 ended in 1993, with over 900,000 units sold.

This car was a generous donation to the museum in 2015.

 

 

Specifications:

Manufacturer:  Saab Automobiles AB 
Country of Origin:  Sweden
Drivetrain Configuration:  Front-engine, front wheel drive
Engine:  2119cc water-cooled, inline four, turbocharged, 175hp
Transmission:  5-speed manual
Top Speed:  134 MPH
Years of Production:  1978-1993
Number Produced:  908,817
Original Cost:  $29,360 USD