The Enduring Charm of the Saab 900 Turbo

The Saab 900, particularly the first generation, is often hailed as the purest and most iconic expression of the Swedish brand before its acquisition by General Motors. Its discontinuation left many devoted owners disheartened. When new, the Saab 900 represented a discerning choice in the compact luxury car segment, offering a unique blend of style, practicality, and performance that set it apart from its contemporaries. The arrival of the 900 Turbo, however, elevated this already respected vehicle to legendary status, cementing its place in automotive history.

The Genesis of a Legend: The Saab 900 Turbo

When the Saab 900 Turbo first hit the roads, its top speed of 111 mph might not sound particularly brisk by today's standards. However, in its era, this was a commendable figure that placed it firmly in the performance category. As the 1970s transitioned into the 1980s and then the 1990s, the 900 Turbo consistently evolved, managing to keep pace with the changing automotive landscape and retaining its appeal as a favourite among driving enthusiasts. What's remarkable is how well these cars have aged; today, they offer an accessible entry point into experiencing one of Europe's finest automotive creations for a fraction of its original cost.

The silhouette of an old-school Saab 900 Turbo is instantly recognisable. From its distinctive long bonnet and curved windscreen to its sloping hatchback profile, the car possessed a certain allure that even captivated the often-jaded automotive press of its time, with many describing it as 'sexy'. This aesthetic appeal was a significant departure from the more utilitarian image Saab had cultivated, drawing comparisons to the stylish, albeit less practical, Italian-designed Sonett III.

Unlike the two-seater Sonett, the 1979-1993 900 Turbo successfully married its captivating looks with exceptional utility, renowned ruggedness, and a potent turbocharged engine that delivered a satisfying surge of power. Despite its undeniable charm, the 900 Turbo's styling remained somewhat unconventional when viewed alongside its more mainstream rivals. This inherent quirkiness was, and still is, a defining characteristic of Saab vehicles, a trait that has been present since the introduction of their very first model, the 92, back in 1950. Saab cars have historically been appreciated more for their distinctive design and practicality than for outright sporting prowess.

Engineering Prowess and Evolution

The transformation in Saab's image began in the late 1970s. The Saab 99, already lauded for its safety and passenger comfort, received a significant boost with the introduction of a turbocharged engine option in 1978. This innovation paved the way for the 900 model line, which debuted just a year later. The pinnacle of this new range was undoubtedly the 900 Turbo.

The first-generation 900 Turbo was an evolution of the 99 Turbo, sharing an almost identical platform from the A-pillar rearwards. Saab extended the wheelbase by two inches and the overall length by nearly nine inches, measures that helped to rectify the somewhat stubby proportions of the later 99 models. This extended platform also provided much-needed additional space in the engine bay, which had become increasingly cramped with the integration of the turbocharger.

These dimensional adjustments facilitated a revised aesthetic, and the 900 Turbo was offered in a variety of body styles throughout its production run. The three- and five-door hatchback versions were available from 1979 to 1980. In 1981, a more conventional four-door sedan replaced the five-door hatchback, remaining a key part of the Turbo lineup until 1985. A significant addition arrived in late 1986 with the introduction of the convertible, which proved to be a remarkably strong seller and continued production into the 1994 model year, even after the launch of the new GM-platform 900. Despite these variations, the three-door hatchback remained the most popular body style, consistently offered throughout the car's lifespan.

Under the Hood: The Heart of the Turbo

At the core of the 900 Turbo lay Saab's robust 1985cc inline four-cylinder engine, mounted at a 45-degree slant towards the passenger side of the vehicle. Three primary variations of this powerplant were offered:

• B Engine: Sourced from the Saab 99, this engine was used in the 1979-1981 model years.
• H-spec Engine (Eight-valve): Introduced for the 1982 model year, this variant featured an eight-valve configuration.
• H Engine (Sixteen-valve): A twin-cam, 16-valve version of the H engine became standard across the Turbo range in late 1985, offering improved performance.

Compression ratios were adjusted over the model years. The B and eight-valve H engines featured a lower 7.2:1 compression ratio, designed to accommodate the lower octane fuel commonly available in the US during that period. The 16-valve H engines, benefiting from advancements in fuel and boost management systems, incorporated an 8.5:1 compression ratio, which significantly enhanced off-boost performance and overall drivability.

Fuel delivery was managed by two different Bosch injection systems: the Continuous Injection (CIS) system on eight-valve cars and the LH-Jetronic system on later 16-valve models. A key innovation introduced in 1982 was Saab's Automatic Performance Control (APC) system. This sophisticated boost control system continuously monitored for detonation and knock, dynamically adjusting peak turbo boost levels during acceleration. If lower-grade fuel was used, the APC system would reduce boost to prevent engine damage. Conversely, with higher-octane fuel, it allowed for increased boost, thereby maximising performance. The engine was connected to a cast-iron exhaust manifold, which fed directly into the turbocharger.

Boost pressure was regulated through different methods. Early B and H engines used a simple pressure regulator limiting peak boost to 7.1 psi. APC-equipped cars saw boost levels ranging from 8.7 to 10.8 psi, depending on the model year, with the pressure-actuating switch set at 13.8 psi. These variations in engine components and management systems led to fluctuating power outputs:

Drivetrain and Suspension

Similar to the Saab 99, the 900 Turbo featured a unique drivetrain layout with the transmission positioned beneath the engine, the clutch at the front, and the differential at the rear. This arrangement, unlike those found in cars like the original Mini or Lamborghini Miura, utilised separate oil supplies for the engine and transmission, mitigating the risk of cross-contamination in the event of a failure.

Three transmission options were available for the 900 Turbo:

• Four-speed Manual: Carried over from the Saab 99.
• Five-speed Manual: Introduced in 1981, this revised gearbox, while offering closer ratios, was noted for slightly hampering acceleration due to its inability to keep the engine within the optimal boost range.
• Three-speed Automatic: Offered as an option, this transmission remained largely unchanged throughout the model's life and is widely considered the least desirable choice due to its significant impact on performance.

The suspension system was equally distinctive. The front featured an independent setup with pressed steel upper and lower A-arms. The lower arms incorporated a pivoting spring perch designed to prevent binding during suspension travel. Both arms were mounted via substantial cast-aluminium brackets with rubber bushings, allowing for alignment adjustments using shims. The rear employed a rigid axle located by upper and lower longitudinal links, with a Panhard rod ensuring lateral stability. Unlike the front, the rear suspension offered no alignment adjustment capabilities.

Special Editions: Elevating the Icon

Saab, while always prioritising safety, also catered to the desire for enhanced performance. This led to the creation of some notable special editions of the 900 Turbo:

• Saab 900 SPG (Special Performance Group) / Aero: Produced from 1985 to 1991, the SPG (known as the Aero in Europe) was based on the three-door hatchback. It was distinguished by its aerodynamic body cladding, distinctive three-spoke alloy wheels, and a leather-clad three-spoke steering wheel. The engine output was boosted to 160 horsepower, later increased to 165 hp by 1987 and a further 175 hp by 1990, thanks to a Mitsubishi-sourced TE05 turbocharger. The SPG also featured upgraded anti-roll bars, springs, and shock absorbers for improved handling.
• 1993 Commemorative Edition: Marking the end of the original 900 Turbo's production run before the GM-based successor, this special edition boasted an impressive 185 horsepower. The interior was enhanced with tan leather seats and a wood dashboard, complemented by a lower and stiffer suspension setup. Only 325 of these highly sought-after models were produced, representing a fitting send-off for a beloved classic.

Production and Legacy

The Saab 900 model line experienced its peak production year in 1984, with Saab manufacturing 88,188 units, a significant portion of which were Turbos. Over its entire production span, more than 900,000 examples of the 900 were built, solidifying its status as Saab's most popular model of that era. The enduring appeal of the 900 Turbo is evident in its continued desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. Despite the discontinuation of the Saab brand, the 900 Turbo remains a testament to innovative engineering, distinctive design, and a unique driving experience.

Key Considerations for Prospective Owners

When considering a Saab 900 Turbo, potential buyers should be aware of common areas to inspect:

• Bodywork: Look for rust, particularly around the door bottoms, hatch bottoms, and wheel wells. The lower front frame rails, where dirt and road debris can accumulate, are a known weak spot for corrosion.
• Engine: Cone-style air filters and larger throttle bodies are popular upgrades. Check eight-valve engines for cracked manifolds. Modifying the APC module can yield a noticeable power increase. Turbochargers are generally durable if maintained, but neglect can significantly shorten their lifespan.
• Drivetrain: Early manual transmissions can be a weak point, with some failing around 60,000 miles. Automatic transmissions are notoriously difficult to rebuild. Other mechanical components are typically robust and can last well over 200,000 miles with proper care.
• Chassis: Exhaust systems are prone to rust and can be costly to replace. Upgrading to a larger diameter down-pipe and high-flow exhaust components can improve performance. The original narrow wheels can be a limiting factor; wider wheels and tires can enhance handling and braking. Shocks and springs typically require replacement around 100,000 miles, though replacement parts are relatively affordable.
• Interior: Sagging headliners are a common issue. Heated seats can also fail, often due to loose wiring.

Saab 900 Turbo Specifications (1979-1993)

Updates and Changes Over the Years

Saab continuously refined the 900 Turbo throughout its production life, incorporating numerous detail changes to keep the design competitive while preserving its distinctive character.

• 1979: Launch year, similar to the 99, with energy-absorbing bumpers, exposed headlights, and a rear spoiler on the three-door hatch.
• 1981: Introduction of the four-door sedan and a revised five-speed transmission. The eight-valve H-spec engine was also introduced.
• 1982: The APC system was introduced in the US market, enhancing torque delivery.
• 1985: The 16-valve engine became standard, boosting power. The SPG model debuted in the US.
• 1986: The convertible variant was introduced, becoming a popular and valuable model today.
• 1987: A significant facelift brought redesigned front and rear bumpers, flush headlights, and a smoother grille.
• 1988: Brake systems were upgraded with larger front rotors.
• 1990: ABS became standard. The SPG received the more powerful Mitsubishi turbocharger.
• 1991: The final year for the SPG model.
• 1993: The Commemorative Edition was released, marking the end of the original 900 Turbo line with a special 185 hp variant.

The Saab 900 Turbo was more than just a car; it was a statement. Its unique blend of Scandinavian design, robust engineering, and spirited performance ensured its place as a beloved icon. For those seeking a driving experience that transcends the ordinary, the Saab 900 Turbo remains an exceptional and rewarding choice.

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