The Saab 9000 is an executive class car produced from 1984 to 1998 in a single generation. Saab attempted to break into the executive car marketplace, developed on the groundwork set by the 900 and 99 models before it.
Saab collaborated with Fiat in developing the Saab 9000. Fiat then made Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema, as well as Alfa Romeo 164 based on the same platform. Much of the bodywork appears interchangeable between 9000, Croma and Thema as a result of similar body shapes. However, Saab built the 9000 with safety in mind, resulting in better-reinforced parts that would not fit on its Italian cousins.
Launching
The introduction of the 9000 took place at the Kolmarden Game Park in 1984, debuting as a five-door liftback codenamed CC, with transverse front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. Three years later, Saab released a sedan variant under the codename CD, followed by the liftback redesigned for the 1992 model year, codenamed CS, producing a total of 503,087 units of the Saab 9000 throughout the years.
Powertrains
Powertrain options for the Saab 9000 include naturally-aspirated or turbocharged petrol engines, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual gearbox.
- 2.0i: 2.0L inline-four B202 naturally-aspirated petrol engine, producing 97kW (130hp) and 173Nm of torque, 0-100km/h acceleration in 11.0 seconds and a top speed of 190km/h
- Turbo: 2.0L inline-four B202 turbocharged petrol engine, producing power in the range from 117kW (160hp) up to 150kW (204hp) and 260Nm to 290Nm of torque, 0-100km/h acceleration as low as 7.0 seconds, and a top speed up to 245km/h
- 2.0i-16: 2.0L inline-four B204i naturally-aspirated petrol engine, producing 97kW (130hp) and 173Nm of torque, 0-100km/h acceleration in 11.0 seconds and a top speed of 190km/h
- 2.3i-16: 2.3L inline-four B234i naturally-aspirated petrol engine, producing 110kW (150hp) and 212Nm of torque, 0-100km/h acceleration in 10.5 seconds and a top speed of 205km/h
- 2.3 Turbo S: inline-four B234R turbocharged petrol engine, producing 161kW (220hp) and 334Nm of torque, 0-100km/h acceleration in 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h
- Aero: 2.3L inline-four turbocharged petrol engine producing up to 168kW (225hp) and 342Nm of torque, 0-100km/h acceleration in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h
- Griffin V6: 3.0L V6 B308 petrol engine producing 155kW (211hp) and 270Nm of torque, 0-100km/h acceleration in 8.0 seconds and a top speed of 230km/h
Facelifts and Updates
The sedan received a restyled front with smooth-edged grille and headlamps, as well as an outward slope on the front. The CC liftback received the same facelift in late 1990, while the CD received its facelift in 1994. The ignition switch was placed on the steering column rather than between the front seats, as done on the 900.
In 1993, Saab introduced the most high-powered Saab, the Aero version, which packed under its hood a 168kW (225hp) 2.3L B234 engine with Mitsubishi's TD04 turbocharger. Automatic variants of Aero did not use the Mitsubishi turbo, instead opting for the regular Garrett AirResearch T25 turbocharger and attaining a lowered peak rating of 149kW (200hp). They came equipped with a body kit and spoiler in colour of the car, Recaro heated sports seats, sport suspension, and 16-inch Super Aero wheels.
Prototypes
Several contract manufacturers created Saab 9000 prototypes, such as the Convertible, Prometheus, and MPV. Finnish manufacturer built a convertible prototype. Saab-Scania rejected several experiments on the Saab 9000, including the attempt to fit it with Yamaha's V6 engine as well as the use of a VM Motori diesel engine.
The Prometheus was a steer-by-wire car, with the steering wheel replaced by a centre-mounted joystick. Its purpose was to reduce injury resulting from impact with the steering wheel.
The MPV prototype was a minivan based on the Saab 9000 platform, lengthened and increased in roof height and completed by Saab's engineers in 1985.
Today, Saab 9000 remains to be an exciting model still loved by many enthusiasts. If you have one in your garage, you might want to consider selling it on Carpart! We're a fast-growing marketplace for car parts and car accessories operating in Australia. Visit our website now!
Author: Luka Kusic