Photo Credit: Doug Chadwick

The 1988 Saab Owners Convention took place on July 22nd through the 24th, 1988 in Wilmington, Delaware.

This location in Wilmington, Delaware is known as “New Sweden” and the convention was “themed” under a special anniversary year since the first Swedish Immigrants entered America in 1638.

A thanks to Bill Jacobson at Sports Car Service for the information from a posted he loaned Saab History in order to capture the following information in lieu of a booklet and official writeup of the event from the planning committee at the time:

The event was kicked off by Jenny Trostel, who introduced a number of Saab personalities such as Bob Sinclair, Lennart Lonnegren, Karen Nobile & Arsey Miller who also sponsored the convention as part of the Saab-Scania of America team.

SAAB OWNERS NATIONAL CONVENTION
JULY 22-24, 1988
WILMINGTON, DEL.

New Sweden 1638-1988
Celebrating The 350th Anniversary of the Swedes and Finns First Permanent Settlement in North America.

A Gathering For All Saab Owners

* Concours & Rallye
* Saab Dignitaries
* Parts & Sales Exchange
* Technical Sessions
* Awards Banquet
* Family Fare Historical Tours
* Fun, Fun, Fun!!

Wilmington Hilton Hotel
I-95 & NAAMANS ROAD
CLAYMONT, DE 19703

For More Information Write:
Delaware Valley Saab Club
Convention Information
36 S. Cliffe Drive
Wilmington, DE 19809
(302)763-7439

Also special thanks to Saab Enthusiasts, Doug Chadwick for the photography and Stefan Vapaa for the emblem and Tim Winker for the video.

I am still looking for the original booklet and any photography of this event as well.

This convention is also listed on the Saab Convention Archive here on Saab History.

The Saab 9000 CD (Classic Design) was first introduced as four-door sedan/saloon model in Nice in 1988.

The 9000 CD took on the facelifted body style of the 1991 9000 CC, however it was without a hatchback. 1992 marked a final “griffin edition” of the 9000 CD. A year later, the model was upgraded to a higher trim level known as the CDE. The CDE model had a CS body style facelift in 1995 where it continued until 1997.

Much like the first 9000 CC’s, three Saab 9000 CD’s took to talladega speedway in 1990 as well.

This model for SAAB came equipped with the following specifications:

Exterior: 4-door sedan, unibody construction, 9000 CC facelifted appearance, slant nose chrome grille, headlights, integrated fog lights in spoiler, darkened tail lights, alloy wheels 6″ width x 15″, 3110lbs

1993 MY Model Converted to CDE
1995 MY Model Converted to CS Body Style, white directional lights introduced except U.S. & Canada

Interior: Fully appointed interior, cloth and leather,full cockpit inspired dash, with dash mounted ignition (departure from console mounted ignition), ski pass through.

1988 MY Automatic seat tensioners
1990 MY Driver’s Side Airbag standard
1992 MY Passenger Side Airbag standard

Chassis: Long wheelbase, wide track, well balanced, macpherson struts, solid rear axle with shocks and springs

1992 MY Traction Control Introduced

Engine:

2.0 Liter 16 valve 175hp Engine, transversely mounted, bosch LH fuel injection system, fuel tank capacity, 17.4 US/68 liters, 9.0:1 compression

1988 MY Water-cooled turbocharger
1990 MY Direct Ignition Introduced
1991 MY 2.3 Liter Engine Introduced, balance shafts present, 150hp, 212Nm of torque at 3800rpm. New Mitsubishi turbocharger
1992 MY 2.3 liter engine turbo introduced with 200hp and 330Nm of torque at 200rpm.
1993 MY Trionic System Introduced
1994 MY 2.3 liter LPT engine introduced
1995 MY 3.0 Liter V6 Now Available
1996 MY 2.3 liter Saab Ecopower engine introduced

Transmission:

1986 MY 5- Speed, front wheel drive
1987 MY Four-Speed Automatic Transmission, front wheel drive

Dimensions:

Wheelbase 105.2″
Front Track 59.9″
Rear Track 58.7″
Turning circle diameter 10.9m
Length 188.2″
Width 69.4″
Height 55.9″
Performance Max Speed 132mph
Acceleration 0-60 mph 8.8 secs

Global Production:

Model Year – Units

1988 52,199
1989 49,556
1990 45,648
1991 45,533
1992 45,906
1993 37,384
1994 32,196
1995 36,844
1996 32,992
1997 24,201

112,177 9000 CD models produced

Photo Credit: Saab Automobile

The Saab 9000 was unveiled at the Kolmarden Zoo and game park 24 May 1984, one hour South of Nykoping, Sweden, Saab’s former head office. The 9000 CC was co-developed by Saab-Scania’s Car Division as well as Lancia, Fiat & Alfa-Romeo following the Saab 600.

This model was designed by the Italian, Giorgetto Giugiaro as well as Swedish designer Björn Envall. The 9000 had over 2 million miles of testing and development devoted towards it and was built in both Trollhättan, Sweden as well as Uusikaupunk, Finland

As a tribute to the endurance that this car had, there were numerous tests conducted such as the Talladega “Long Run” in 1986. In 1990, the 9000 also won the guinness book of world records in for distance traveled.

The Saab 9000 began design all the way back in 1974, but was first produced in 1985 and lasted until 1992, until a new CS body style was built. However, some years after the 9000 CC was produced, a 9000 CD showed up in 1988 and was produced until 1997, later to be alongside the CS.

This model for SAAB came equipped with the following specifications:

Exterior: 5-Door Hatchback design with sedan appearance, unibody construction, chrome grille, flat nose, flat headlights, rear wrap-around spoiler, alloy wheels 6″ width x 15″, 3058lbs.

1986 MY Side Marker lenses on fender, spoiler only on hatch
1991 MY New Facelift on model, new forward facing front bumper, grille, headlights and cornering lights, and trimwork is all black from previous aluminum, fog lights integrated into spoiler, reinforced crash protection.

Interior: Fully appointed interior, cloth and leather,full cockpit inspired dash, with dash mounted ignition (departure from console mounted ignition), seats folded flat with brackets for large storage room.

1987 MY Variable Seat Heating
1988 MY Automatic seat tensioners]
1990 MY Driver’s Side Airbag standard
1992 MY Passenger Side Airbag standard

Chassis: Long wheelbase, wide track, well balanced, macpherson struts, solid rear axle with shocks and springs

1987 MY ABS Introduced as Option
1992 MY Traction Control

Engine:

2.0 Liter 16 valve 175hp Engine, transversely mounted, bosch LH fuel injection system, fuel tank capacity, 17.9 US/68 liters, 9.0:1 compression

1988 MY Water-cooled turbocharger
1990 MY Direct Ignition Introduced
1991 MY 2.3 Liter Engine Introduced, balance shafts present, 150hp, 212Nm of torque at 3800rpm. New Mitsubishi turbocharger
1992 MY 2.3 liter engine turbo introduced with 200hp and 330Nm of torque at 200rpm.

Transmission:

1986 MY 5- Speed, front wheel drive
1987 MY Four-Speed Automatic Transmission, front wheel drive

Dimensions:

Wheelbase 2672mm
Front Track 1522mm
Rear Track 1492m
Turning circle diameter 10.0m
Length 4620mm
Width 1764mm
Height 1430mm
Performance Max Speed 132mph
Acceleration 0-60 mph 8.8 secs

Global Production:

Model Year – Units

Year
1984 470
1985 13,721
1986 34,816
1987 49,081
1988 52,199
1989 49,556
1990 45,648
1991 45,533
1992 45,906

Photo Credit: Saab-Lancia

The Saab-Lancia 600 was produced from 1980 until 1982. It was a Saab-Scania / Lancia partnership that was created in order to share the financials in creating a platform that would eventually set the stage for the successor, the Saab 9000, three years later.

The Saab 600 was a rebadged Lancia Delta and that set the stage for the Saab-Scania & Fiat-Lancia-Alfa Romeo partnership.

The Saab 600 was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, which was a front-wheel drive, 4-door hatchback.

This model for SAAB came equipped with the following specifications:

Exterior:

5-door hatchback. F/F, 1425kg, Saab grille and Saab wordmark badges, 165/70r13 aluminum alloy wheels

GL, GLS, GLE Models.

Interior:

Cloth seats, rear seats fold down for hatch.

Chassis:

Unibody frame, diagonal cross brake system, vacuum servo, handbrake on rear brakes. Macpherson strut suspension and sway bars.

Engine:

4-Cylinder, 2-port weber carburettor, 1,498cc, 45 liter fuel tank, compression ratio 9:2:1

Transmission:

5-Speed Transmission

Dimensions:

Wheelbase 2475mm/″
Front Track 1400mm/″
Rear Track 1400mm/″
Ground Clearance 15cm/″
Turning Circle 11.25m/3″‘
Length 3885mm/″
Width 1620mm/″
Height 142cm/″
Performance Max Speed /165 kph
Acceleration 0-60 mph 12.5 secs

Global Production:

Model Year – Units

1980 MY – ?
1981 MY – ?
1982 MY – ?

Sold in Sweden & Norway only.

Photo Credit: Saab Automobile USA

The convertible idea was conceived by Bob Sinclair, former President Saab-Scania of America, Inc. and the engineering was conducted by Steven Rossi & American Sunroof Company.

The Saab 900 Turbo Cabriolet prototype in 1983. was unveiled to the crowd at the Frankfurt Motor Show that Saab in 1983.

A year later, this vehicle was also featured in the Saab Olympics which took place in Los Angeles in 1984.

The first production model of the Saab 900 Convertible arrived in 1986 of which there were 400 made that year and was built in Uusikaupunki, Finland.

The final year for the production of the convertible took place in 1994, a year after the 900 ended production.

This model for SAAB came equipped with the following specifications:

Exterior:

1986 MY 900S, 900 Turbo
1987 MY 900S, 900 Turbo, New Facelift on that include bumpers, bumper extensions front and rear, new grille, headlights and corner markers with integrated spoiler on front bumper for turbo models
1988 MY 900S, 900 Turbo window strips black, handles, decor plate and tinted windows, Springtime in Sweden model. with spg side skirts and wheels.
1989 MY 900S, 900 Turbo Third Brake light mandatory for U.S. Models, although this was present back in 1987 MY as campaign recall.
1990 MY 900S, 900 Turbo Normally aspirated (ie. N/A), fuel tank increased from 63 to 68 litres.
1991 MY 900S, 900 Turbo, Special Edition in Platana Grey, with spg side skirts and wheels.
1992 MY 900S, 900 Turbo, Special Edition in Monte Carlo Yellow, with spg side skirts and wheels.
1993 MY 900S, 900 Turbo
1994 MY 900S, 900 Turbo, 900 CE, with side skirts, etc.

Interior:

1986 MY Center Armrest added
1991 MY Electrostatic compartment air filter added, same seats as 9000 with electrically adjustable driver’s side seat
1992 MY CD Player

Chassis:

Semi unitary construction, independent front suspension, wishbones, coil springs, rear solid axle, Panhard Rod, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, Front disc brakes, vacuum servo rear, twin circuit braking, rack and pinion steering, 58 litre fuel tank, 165SR15 tires, 5″ rim.

1988 MY New Brakes & Wheel Hub configuration, handbrake worked with rear wheels now, opposed to front.
1992 MY ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) included.

Engine:

Engine Four-cylinder longitudinally mounted, 90×78mm, 1985cc, compr: 9.2:1, 175hp @ 5,500 rpm, 167Nm @ 3,700 rpm, Overhead valves, four cylinder, two valves per cylinder, ohc valve gear, one chain driven ohc, aluminium alloy cylinder head, cast iron block, 5-bearing crankshaft, Bosch CI injection, water cooling, viscous fan.

1986 MY Intercooler added to existing eight-valve turbos, hydraulic engine mounts added to 16valve engines
1987 MY Catalytic Converter Added
1988 MY Water Cooled Turbo added
1991 MY 16 Valve 2.1 (2,119cc) Liter Normally Aspirated Engine

Transmission:

Front-wheel drive, four and five speed transmission and automatic transmissions.
1991 MY Upgraded 5-Speed Transmission

Dimensions:

Wheelbase 252.5cm/99.4″
Front Track 142cm/55.9″
Rear Track 143cm/56.3″
Ground Clearance 15cm/5.9″
Turning Circle 11.25m/36′11″‘
Length 473.9cm/186.5″
Width 169cm/66.5″
Height 142cm/56.25″
Performance Max Speed 105 mph/169 kph
22.5 mph/36.1 kph @ 1,000 rpm
Acceleration 0-60 mph 13.3 secs
Standing Mile 18.2 secs
Average Fuel Consumption 24.5mpg

Global Production:

Model Year – Units

1986 MY – 400
1987 MY – ?
1988 MY – ?
1989 MY – ?
1990 MY – ?
1991 MY – ?
1992 MY – ?
1993 MY – ?
1994 MY – ?

There were 48,888 were convertibles 1986-1994

Photo Credit: Saab-Scania

The Saab 900 notchback sedan was first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in 1981. That year, the models traditional 3-door & 5-door hatchback model lineup was expanded to include sedans which featured a new body style known as the “notchback”, which effectively eliminated the hatch leaving a trunk.

This new body style was included in not only the initial sedans, but between 1985 and 1986, it had a 3-door model people refer to as the “notchback”. It’s design continued through the years until 1993, and it even served as the basis for the Saab 900 convertible in 1986.

This model for SAAB came equipped with the following specifications:

Exterior:

1982 MY Central Locking on GLE (900S & Turbo models), wide angle rear view mirror now available, 400 limited edition 25th Anniv. models Added with Two-Tone Blue/Grey, alloy wheels, 25th anniv steering wheel emblem.
1983 MY Front Parking Lights, Rear Fog Lights and electrically operated sunroof, leather was an option on Turbo models.
1984 MY New Silver-Grey Grille with slightly rounded corners, and 900 (GLE), 900S (EMS) and Turbo had three spoke steering wheel,SPG Prototype launched
1985 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, Saab-Scania Emblem on Hood, trunk and steering wheel, four door turbos had rear spoiler
1986 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo Side Indicator lights added to front fenders
1987 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo New Facelift on all models, 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, SPG that included bumpers, bumper extensions front and rear, new grille, headlights and corner markers with integrated spoiler on front bumper for turbo models
1988 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo window strips black, handles, decor plate and tinted windows.
1989 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo Third Brake light mandatory for U.S. Models, although this was present back in 1987 MY as campaign recall.
1990 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo Normally aspirated (ie. N/A), fuel tank increased from 63 to 68 litres.
1991 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo
1992 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo
1993 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo

Interior:

1981 MY New Rear Seats, Electric Windows, larger fuel tank & trunk, spare tire under floor.
1983 MY Tachometer
1986 MY Center Armrest added
1991 MY Electrostatic compartment air filter added, same seats as 9000 with electrically adjustable driver’s side seat

Chassis:

Unitary construction, independent front suspension, wishbones, coil springs, rear solid axle, Panhard Rod, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, Front disc brakes, vacuum servo rear, twin circuit braking, rack and pinion steering, 58 litre fuel tank, 165SR15 tires, 5″ rim.

1983 MY Asbestos free brakes.
1988 MY New Brakes & Wheel Hub configuration, handbrake worked with rear wheels now, opposed to front.
1992 MY ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) included.

Engine:

Engine Four-cylinder longitudinally mounted, 90×78mm, 1985cc, compr: 9.2:1, 118hp @ 5,500 rpm, 167Nm @ 3,700 rpm, Overhead valves, four cylinder, two valves per cylinder, ohc valve gear, one chain driven ohc, aluminium alloy cylinder head, cast iron block, 5-bearing crankshaft, Bosch CI injection, water cooling, viscous fan.

1981 MY Lighter & Stronger H Engine, GLE offered in only four door sedan
1982 MY Automatic Performance Control (APC)
1983 MY Five Door 900 GLi model with 118hp offered in Sweden.
1984 MY 900 T16S Aero Available in certain markets in Black or Silver, 900 SPG “Prototype” offered, LH Fuel Injection
1985 MY 900 base model had 100hp, 900i fuel injected 118hp, 900 turbo had 145hp, 900T16S 175hp (SPG in U.S. market)
1986 MY Intercooler added to existing eight-valve turbos, hydraulic engine mounts added to 16valve engines
1987 MY Catalytic Converter Added
1988 MY Water Cooled Turbo added
1985 MY 16 Valve 2.0 Liter Turbo & N/A Engine, 175 hp
1991 MY 16 Valve 2.1 (2,119cc) Liter Normally Aspirated Engine

Transmission:

Front-wheel drive, four and five speed transmission and automatic transmissions.
1991 MY Upgraded 5-Speed Transmission

Dimensions:

Wheelbase 252.5cm/99.4″
Front Track 142cm/55.9″
Rear Track 143cm/56.3″
Ground Clearance 15cm/5.9″
Turning Circle 11.25m/36′11″‘
Length 473.9cm/186.5″
Width 169cm/66.5″
Height 142cm/56.25″
Performance Max Speed 105 mph/169 kph
22.5 mph/36.1 kph @ 1,000 rpm
Acceleration 0-60 mph 13.3 secs
Standing Mile 18.2 secs
Average Fuel Consumption 24.5mpg

Global Production:

Model Year – Units

1981 MY – ?
1982 MY – ?
1983 MY – ?
1984 MY – ?
1985 MY – ?
1986 MY – ?
1987 MY – ?
1988 MY – ?
1989 MY – ?
1990 MY – ?
1991 MY – ?
1992 MY – ?
1993 MY – ?

Photo Credit: Saab Automobile

The Saab 900 continued the legacy of the 99 as a Combi Coupé / hatchback and was first introduced in 1979 and was produced for 15 years until it came to an end in 1993.

The 900 was designed by Saab designer, Bjorn Enväll and was produced in Uusikaupunki, Finland, Arlöv, Sweden, Malmö, Sweden and Trollhättan, Sweden

The Saab 900 became known as the classic 900 when it rolled off of the production line on March 26th, 1993 in an Imola Red 900 Aero, which was subsequently driven directly to the Saab Museum in Trollhättan.

This model for SAAB came equipped with the following specifications:

Exterior:

Combi Coupe / hatchback, three and five doors, five seats, 1,174kg/2,583 lbs, flip up forward hinged clam shell like hood, wrap-around windshield, hockystick shaped c-pillar, painted grille, rear rubber spoiler on turbo models, halogen headlights, bumpers from Saab 90 on all models up until 1986.

1979 MY GLI, EMS, with air filter.
1980 MY New Grille & Tail Lights, TRX Wheels
1981 MY 3-door, and now Four Door Sedan Offered, shown at Geneva Motor Show, larger side mouldings, all models reduced in U.S. to just 900 for base and 900S for EMS and 900 Turbo.
1982 MY Central Locking on GLE (900S & Turbo models), wie angle rear view mirror now available, 400 limited edition 25th Anniv. models Added with Two-Tone Blue/Grey, alloy wheels, 25th anniv steering wheel emblem.
1983 MY Front Parking Lights, Rear Fog Lights and electrically operated sunroof, leather was an option on Turbo models.
1984 MY New Silver-Grey Grille with slightly rounded corners, and 900 (GLE), 900S (EMS) and Turbo had three spoke steering wheel,SPG Prototype launched
1985 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, SPG added, Saab-Scania Emblem on Hood, trunk and steering wheel, four door turbos had rear spoiler
1986 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, SPG Side Indicator lights added to front fenders
1987 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, SPG New Facelift on all models, 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, SPG that included bumpers, bumper extensions front and rear, new grille, headlights and corner markers with integrated spoiler on front bumper for turbo models
1988 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, SPG New Wheels To account for new hubs & brakes, same as 9000, window strips black, handles, decor plate and tinted windows.
1989 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, SPG Third Brake light mandatory for U.S. Models, although this was present back in 1987 MY as campaign recall.
1990 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, SPG Light Pressure Turbo 145hp introduced (LPT) in all markets, except for U.S. where 900S was Normally aspirated (ie. N/A), fuel tank increased from 63 to 68 litres.
1991 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, SPG
1992 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo
1993 MY 900, 900S, 900 Turbo, 325 900 Commemorative Editions.

Interior:

Curved Instrument & Dash board panel, telescopically collabsible steering column, center mounted ignition switch and pollen filter.

1979 MY New Instrument Panel.
1980 MY New Seat with vertically adjustable head restraint.
1981 MY New Rear Seats, Electric Windows, larger fuel tank & trunk, spare tire under floor.
1983 MY Tachometer
1986 MY Center Armrest added
1991 MY Electrostatic compartment air filter added, same seats as 9000 with electrically adjustable driver’s side seat

Chassis:

Unitary construction, independent front suspension, wishbones, coil springs, rear solid axle, Panhard Rod, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, Front disc brakes, vacuum servo rear, twin circuit braking, rack and pinion steering, 58 litre fuel tank, 165SR15 tires, 5″ rim.

1983 MY Asbestos free brakes.
1988 MY New Brakes & Wheel Hub configuration, handbrake worked with rear wheels now, opposed to front.
1992 MY ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) included.

Engine:

Engine Four-cylinder longitudinally mounted, 90x78mm, 1985cc, compr: 9.2:1, 118hp @ 5,500 rpm, 167Nm @ 3,700 rpm, Overhead valves, four cylinder, two valves per cylinder, ohc valve gear, one chain driven ohc, aluminium alloy cylinder head, cast iron block, 5-bearing crankshaft, Bosch CI injection, water cooling, viscous fan.

1979 MY GL 100hp engine, GLS 108hp twin carb, GLi, GLE, EMS Fuel Injected 118hp, Turbo 145hp
1981 MY Lighter & Stronger H Engine, GLE offered in only four door sedan
1982 MY Automatic Performance Control (APC)
1983 MY Five Door 900 GLi model with 118hp offered in Sweden.
1984 MY 900 T16S Aero Available in certain markets in Black or Silver, 900 SPG “Prototype” offered, LH Fuel Injection
1985 MY 900 base model had 100hp, 900i fuel injected 118hp, 900 turbo had 145hp, 900T16S 175hp (SPG in U.S. market)
1986 MY Intercooler added to existing eight-valve turbos, hydraulic engine mounts added to 16valve engines
1987 MY Catalytic Converter Added
1988 MY Water Cooled Turbo added
1985 MY 16 Valve 2.0 Liter Turbo & N/A Engine, 175 hp
1991 MY 16 Valve 2.1 (2,119cc) Liter Normally Aspirated Engine

Transmission:

Front-wheel drive, four and five speed transmission.

1980 MY Five Speed Transmission optional on EMS & Turbo models.
1991 MY Upgraded 5-Speed Transmission

Dimensions:

Wheelbase 252.5cm/99.4″
Front Track 142cm/55.9″
Rear Track 143cm/56.3″
Ground Clearance 15cm/5.9″
Turning Circle 11.25m/36’11″‘
Length 473.9cm/186.5″
Width 169cm/66.5″
Height 142cm/56.25″
Performance Max Speed 105 mph/169 kph
22.5 mph/36.1 kph @ 1,000 rpm
Acceleration 0-60 mph 13.3 secs
Standing Mile 18.2 secs
Average Fuel Consumption 24.5mpg

Global Production:

Model Year – Units

1979 MY – (U.S. Import 11,297)
1980 MY – (U.S. Import 12,906)
1981 MY – (U.S. Import 7,759)
1982 MY – (U.S. Import 16,946)
1983 MY – (U.S. Import 22,777)
1984 MY – (U.S. Import 31,638)
1985 MY – (U.S. Import 38,720)
1986 MY – (U.S. Import 36,973)
1987 MY – (U.S. Import 36,194)
1988 MY – (U.S. Import 28,321)
1989 MY – (U.S. Import 24,490)
1990 MY – (U.S. Import 24,490)
1991 MY – (U.S. Import 14,561)
1992 MY – (U.S. Import 14,829)
1993 MY – (U.S. Import 9,936)

908,817 Saab 900s were produced globally from 1979 to 1993.

Photo Credit: Saab Automobile AB

The Saab 90 began in 1985, following the 99 model and continued until 1987 and was built in Uusikaupunki, Finland. This model was hybrid between a 99 front forward of the a-pillar, and the successor to the 99, the 900 in sedan style with a trunk after the b-pillar and was only available in Europe.

According to Wikipedia, there were 10 “limited edition models called the Saab 90 Lumikko (Snow Weasel). These models were all white and had extra trim.”

The 90 later inspired a “notchback” version of the 900 which was available in 1985 and 1986 which was not only available in Europe, but the United States as well.

This model for SAAB came equipped with the following specifications:

Exterior:

Saloon, two doors, five seats, 955kg/2,105.4 lbs.

1987 MY Front Spoiler, and sunroof option, cardinal red metallic added to this range with new colors Zircon Blue and Dolomite Sand.

Interior:

Effectively the same interior as the same model year and trim models as the 900, front heated seats, side adjustable mirrors from inside, steering wheel altered

Chassis:

Steel body with tubular reinforcements, indy front suspension with telescopic shocks, solid rear axle, disc brakes, twin diagonal circuit brakes, rack and pinion steering, 46.8 liter fuel tank capacity, 155 R15 tires, 4.5″ rim.

Engine:

Four-cylinder longitudinally mounted, 1,985cc, 100 hp.

1987 MY Carburettor added for cold start.

Transmission:

Front-wheel drive, four speed

1987 MY Five Speed added

Dimensions:

Length 434.4cm/171″
Width 167.5cm/66″
Height 142.9cm/56.25″

Global Production:

Model Year – Units

1984 MY
1985 MY
1986 MY
1987 MY

25,378 90s were made during this time in Europe only.

Photo Credit: Saab Automobile:

The Saab 99 Combi Coupe or Wagonback as it was initially referred to in the U.S. arrived in 1974 following the Saab 98 prototype while it took on the additional characteristics of the 99.

The Saab 99 Combi Coupe was designed by Bjorn Envall and was produced in Uusikaupunki, Finland as well as Trollhattan, Sweden.

The Saab 99 Combi Coupe was a hatchback and known as the Wagonback in the U.S. and was Saab’s first designer, Sixton Sason’s final project of the 99, to be produced.

This model set the history books as the first true “hatchback” for Saab and the first model is on display today at the Saab Car Museum.

This model for SAAB came equipped with the following specifications:

Exterior:

1974 MY Combi Coupe / hatchback, three and five doors, five seats, 1,174kg/2,583 lbs, flip up forward hinged clam shell like hood, wrap-around windshield, hockystick shaped c-pillar, rear rubber spoiler on turbo models, halogen headlights
1976 EMS Version Added
1978 MY Inca wheels added to Turbo models, front and rear spoilers

Interior:

1974 MY New Front seats with integrated head restraights, new HVAC, new door skins, EMS included center armrest.
1976 MY Electrically heated rear window and adjustable rear view mirrrors and tinted windows.
1977 MY Turbo model included luxurious interior

Chassis:

Unitary steel body/ chassis with tubuar reinforcement to pillars, independent front suspension, coil springs and wishbones, rear tubular dead beam axle located by twin longitudinal arms and panhard rod, coil rear springs, telescopic shock absorbers, ATE Disc brakes, twin diagonal circuit braking, rack and pinion steering, 46.8 litre fuel tank, 155×15 tyres, 4.5″ rim.

Engine:

Four-cylinder longitudinally mounted, 83.5x78mm, 1,709, compr: 9.0:1, 80hp @ 5,200 rpm, 131.42Nm @ 3,000 rpm, Overhead valves, two valves per cylinder, ohc valve gear, overhead camshaft, chain camshaft drive, two-stroke, aluminium cylinder head, cast iron block, 5-bearing crankshaft, Stromberg CD type 175 carburettor, water cooling with thermostat controlled fan.

1974 MY Had a new 1,985cc 100hp engine with increased fuel tank, 99 EMS had Bosch Continuous injection system capable of 118hp.
1978 MY 99 Turbo introduced99 Turbo Engine introduced
1979 MY Larger Fuel tank made of polyetheylene, stronger rear axle, upgraded front suspension, semi metallic brakes, same bumpers as 900 models.

Transmission:

Front-wheel drive, four-speed gearbox, spiral bevel final drive, 4.22:1, automatic option (1970)

Dimensions:

Wheelbase 252.5cm/99.4″
Front Track 142cm/55.9″
Rear Track 143cm/56.3″
Ground Clearance 15cm/5.9″
Turning Circle 11.25m/36’11″‘
Length 473.9cm/186.5″
Width 169cm/66.5″
Height 142cm/56.25″
Performance Max Speed 105 mph/169 kph
22.5 mph/36.1 kph @ 1,000 rpm
Acceleration 0-60 mph 13.3 secs
Standing Mile 18.2 secs
Average Fuel Consumption 24.5mpg

Global Production:

Model Year – Units

1974 MY
1975 MY
1976 MY
1977 MY
1978 MY

Photo Credit: Saab Automobile AB

The Saab 99 debuted at the New York Auto Show in April of 1969 as the successor to the 96. The 99 was initially designed as a larger 96, however over the time this model became the initial signature design and inspiration for future Saab designs of today.

The 99 was final vehicle that the first Saab designer, Sixten Sason’s designed. However, this design was collaborated with Bjorn Enväll and was produced in both Trollhättan, Sweden as well as Uusikaupunki, Finland.

The production of this model began as a 1969 model year and continued until 1984.

This model for SAAB came equipped with the following specifications:

Exterior:

Saloon, two doors, five seats, 955kg/2,105.4 lbs.

1969 MY 99 Colors included red, white, blue, green black and beige.
1970 MY 99 Four Door Launched, Colors included Polar White, Silver sand, Toreador Red, Savannah Beige, Sea Green, Black and Medium Blue.
1971 MY 99 Headlight washer/wiper system, new double rectangular grille.
1972 MY 99, 99 EMS Impact Absorbing Bumpers Added, larger indicator/parking lights, round headlamps for U.S. eliminating wash/wipe for this market. EMS Model available in copper coral metallic, alloy wheels
1973 MY 99, 99L, 99 EMS Side Impact Protection, matt black grilles and halogen headlights, again except U.S. with round headlights, plain wheels,
1974 MY 99, 99L, 99 EMS, 99 Combi Coupé which was a hatchback and known as the Wagonback in the U.S.
1974 MY 99, 99L, 99 EMS, 99 Combi Coupé
1976 MY 99, 99L, 99GL, 99 GLE, 99EMS, 99 Combi Coup̩ Р99 GLE added with 118hp, auto and power steering, double headlamps.
1977 MY 99, 99L, 99GL, 99 GLE, 99 EMS, 99 Combi Coupé all had larger headlamps with side reverse lights. Sedans had larger rear lights and larger glass areas. All models were pre-wired for radios and speakers.
1978 MY 99, 99L, 99GL, 99GLE, 99 EMS 2-door and 3-door, 99 Combi Coupé, 99 Turbo introduced in pearl white with inca wheels, front and rear spoilers.
1979 MY 99GL, 99GLE and 99 Turbo, other 99 models were eliminated with the new 900, 2-door 99 turbo available in marble white and acacia green metallic sold to Swedish, German, Swiss and Dutch markets.
1980 MY 99GLS, 99 GLi, 99GL, 99 Turbo Low side mouldings added
1981 MY 99 had wing mirrors adjustable from inside.
1982 MY New Grille, side mouldings and wheels.
1983 MY New Bumpers from 900, larger mouldings, new grille same as 900, new fog lights, asbestos free brakes and sunroof option for 5-speeds.
1984 MY Final Year.

Interior:

1968 MY 99 Ignition Between The Seats
1970 MY 99 Improved lighting with clock, lighter and ashtrays, three point seatbelts.
1971 MY 99 Rear View Mirror Added anti-glare attachment, dash instruments updated.
1972 MY 99, 99 EMS Heated Seats, EMS had leather steering wheel, tach
1974 MY New Front seats with integrated head restraights, new HVAC, new door skins, EMS included center armrest.
1976 MY Electrically heated rear window and adjustable rear view mirrrors and tinted windows.
1980 MY 99 had same seats as 900
1981 MY 99 had both front and rear seats from 900, new steering wheel, 99GL had electrically adjustable mirrors and tinted windows.
1983 MY New Center Console
1984 MY Breakerless ignition system, more headroom, and automatic electric heating.

Chassis:

Unitary steel body/ chassis with tubuar reinforcement to pillars, independent front suspension, coil springs and wishbones, rear tubular dead beam axle located by twin longitudinal arms and panhard rod, coil rear springs, telescopic shock absorbers, ATE Disc brakes, twin diagonal circuit braking, rack and pinion steering, 46.8 litre fuel tank, 155×15 tyres, 4.5″ rim.

1974 MY Braking system improvements, reinforced chassis.

Engine:

Four-cylinder longitudinally mounted, 83.5x78mm, 1,709, compr: 9.0:1, 80hp @ 5,200 rpm, 131.42Nm @ 3,000 rpm, Overhead valves, two valves per cylinder, ohc valve gear, overhead camshaft, chain camshaft drive, two-stroke, aluminium cylinder head, cast iron block, 5-bearing crankshaft, Stromberg CD type 175 carburettor, water cooling with thermostat controlled fan.

1970 Aluminum exhaust
1971 MY 99 1,854cc engine delivered 86hp,or 95hp with electronic fuel injection (99E)
1972 MY 99, 99 EMS 88hp 1.85 engine or 97hp fuel injected engine, with auto or standard, no more freewheel, EMS had new 1985cc engine with Jetronic electronic fuel injection.
1973 MY 99L had a 1.85 litre engine, 99 EMS had a 1,985cc engine, V4 engine available for Scandinavian markets.
1974 MY Had a new 1,985cc 100hp engine with increased fuel tank, 99 EMS had Bosch Continuous injection system capable of 118hp.
1978 MY 99 Turbo Engine
1979 MY Larger Fuel tank made of polyetheylene, stronger rear axle, upgraded front suspension, semi metallic brakes, same bumpers as 900 models.
1980 MY 99GL had 100hp engine, 99 GLS had 108 twin-carb engine, GLi auto had 110hp and 99 Turbo had 145hp.
1981 MY 99GL had single carburettor, with special eddition of 1,600 with 118hp. GLi had a special options for Scandinavian markets.

Transmission:

Front-wheel drive, four-speed gearbox, spiral bevel final drive, 4.22:1, automatic option (1970)
1971 MY 99 Manual transmission for 1.7 liter engine and auto for 1.85 engine.

Dimensions:

Wheelbase 247.65cm/97.5″
Front Track 139.7cm/55″
Rear Track 140.35cm/55.25″
Ground Clearance 16.5cm/6.5″
Turning Circle (L) 9.6m/31.5′, (R) 9.45m/31′
Length 434.4cm/171″
Width 167.5cm/66″
Height 142.9cm/56.25″
Performance Max Speed 90 mph/145 kph
17.7 mph/28.4 kph @ 1,000 rpm
Acceleration 0-60 mph 15.2 secs
Standing Mile 20.2 secs
Average Fuel Consumption 26.6mpg (test)

Global Production:

Model Year – Units

1969 MY – ?
1970 MY – ?
1971 MY – ?
1972 MY – ?
1973 MY – ?
1974 MY – ?
1975 MY – ?
1976 MY – ?
1977 MY – ?
1978 MY – ?
1979 MY – ?
1980 MY – ?
1981 MY – ?
1982 MY – ?
1983 MY – ?
1984 MY – ?

588,643 units were produced during this time.

Photo Credit: Saab Automobile AB

The SAAB 96 debuted in 1960 as a successor to the 93F.

The 96 was made famous by notable legendary Saab Rally Champions Erik “On The Roof” Carlsson as well as his wife, Pat Moss.

The 96 was built in the Trollhättan, Sweden factory due to capacity in and the V4 models began production in Uusikaupunki, Finland factory.

This model had the longest run of any Saab in history at 20 years, where it went until 1966 when it was converted into model equipped with a V4 engine in 1967 that carried it all the way until 1980.

On the 8th of January, 1980 the last Saab 96V4 rolled off the production line in Finland. The last 96V4 off the production line was driven by rally legend Erik Carlsson from Finland direct to the Saab Museum at Trollhättan where it is on display today.

This new model for SAAB and came equipped with the following specifications.

Exterior: Saloon, two doors, five seats, 813kg/1,792 lbs.

1962 MY City grey and arctic ocean blue colors
1963 MY SAAB Emblem changed to Saab name and logo airplane on grille & midnight blue, brown-beight and black were included, green was eliminated,
1964 MY New Colors of Glacier Blue and Savannah Brown
1965 MY Straight Nose, eliminating bullnose & New Headlights and directionals. New Colors were Olive Green, Torreador Red, Polar White, Midnight Blue, Savannah Brown and Glacier Blue.
1966 MY New Hubcaps, stainless steel trim strips, new headlamp flasher, new external rear view mirrors, disc brakes, designated as “96 Special” with new colors such as dark grey and yellow, savannah brown and olive green eliminated.
1967 MY Hussar Blue and Silversand added as colors
1968 MY V4 De Lux with trim strips and rear windows that could be opened, windscreen had an electric pump powered washer and 7cm deeper.
1969 MY Rectangular Headlamps, chrome grille, indicators moved to front wings, US still had round headlampsm, Sea Green and Black colors added.
1970 MY Medium Blue color added and headlamps wired via ignition so lights could not be left on
1971 MY Headlight Washers Added, with electrodipping to improve rust prevention, new colors silver mink and tyrolene green replaced sea green
1972 MY New Bumpers, Wheels with air holes. Amber Yellow and Verona Green added to colors.
1973 MY All markets now had rectangular headlights except for U.S. and carolina blue and brilliant yellow replaced medium blue and tyrolene green.
1974 MY Two piece plastic grille replaced 6 piece chrome grill. Radial tires and reel-style seatbelts, all standard. Sunset Orange, Sienna Brown and Lion Yellow were new colors.
1975 MY 1975 MY Black Windscreen wipers and window surrounds, New Colors Emerald Green, Coral White and Solar Red replaced Verona Green, Polar White and Toreador Red and alloy wheels. A Special “Silver Jubilee Model” with silver metallic presented in spring.
1976 MY Energy Absorbing Bumpers now standard. These would withstand a collision of up to 8kph (5mph) and resume their original shape. New Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), topaz yellow and opal green new colors.
1977 MY Black wing mirrors now with increased glass area. Astral Blue and Antelope Brown added to colors.
1978 MY Enlarged sidelight/indicator light clusters on the front wings. Enlarged rear light clusters with reversing lights. New Rubber Trunk handle and spoiler. Emblem denoting 68hp engine. Jade Green and Laguna Blue substituted Opal Green and Astral Blue colors.
1979 MY Black Window Surrounds, colors added included Alabaster Yellow, Chamotte Brown, Midnight Blue, Solar Red and Marble White. All production moved to Finland this year.
1980 MY Final Year, finished in aquamarine blue metallic, upgraded equipment such as alloy wheels.

Interior

1961 MY Woolen Cloth Interior
1962 MY Standard Seat Belts
1963 MY Horn Ring on Steering Wheel, Larger Rear View Mirror, Raised Seats and Better HVAC
1964 MY New Instrument Panel with round cluster & darker interior color
1966 MY New Instrumentation including tachometer
1967 MY New 3-Point Seat Belts
1968 MY Brake circuit indicated, V4 De Lux with rear windows that could be opened, dash in dark grey, controls in black to suppresss reflection, rear view mirror moved from dash to top of windscreen, horn ring replaced with control on steering column.
1969 MY telescopic steering column, attachments for head restraints
1970 MY An all new interior, a new instrument panel with all meters and lamps contained within two recessed dials, a new steering wheel and new buttons for heating and lighting, rear seat belts standard and V4 delux phased out.
1971 MY New Handbrake and warm air duct to rear seats
1972 MY Electronically Heated Seats
1973 MY All Instruments modified with yellow pointers and sunvisors had black backs.
1974 MY Rear seatbelt reminder lamp
1975 MY Reel-Type seat belts standard in rear, New Tachometer & leather steering wheel for 1975B Special Model
1976 MY The Saab 96 was now designated 96L due to a new floorpan redesign which gave 5cm of legroom to rear seat passengers and, on the 95V4.. Rear Bench Seat Was removed to the relocation of a spare wheel.
1977 MY Front Seats had 99 style, including head restraints, heated rear screen.
1980 MY plush upholestery

Chassis:

Internal steel body shell, independent front suspension, coil springs and wishbones with anti-roll bars, beam axle, coil rear springs, telescopic shock absorbers, hydraulic drum brakes, single circuit braking, rack and pinion steering, 39.78 litre fuel tank, 5.00/5.20×15 tyres, 4″ rim.
Dimensions

1962 MY “Saab Sport Chassis”, 1962 MY Interference suppression,vacuum conrolled ignition setting
1963 MY “Saab Sport Chassis”
1964 MY “Saab Sport Chassis”, Diagonal split brakes
1965 MY “Saab Sport Chassis”
1969 MY Servo assisted brakes

Engine:

Engine Three-cylinder longitudinally mounted, 70x73mm, 841cc, compr: 7.3:1, 38hp @ 4,250 rpm, 79Nm @ 3,000 rpm, Two-stroke, aluminium cylinder head, cast iron block, 4-bearing crankshaft, downdraught Solex 4UAI or BI carburettor, fan, thermostat and pump.

1960 MY 841cc, 38hp.
1961 MY Key Activated Starter Motor
1965 MY Redesigned HVAC system & Engine Compression increased to 8.1:1 with hp to 44hp. New Hydraulic Clutch, fuel pump, exhaust system and top mounted foot pedals for clutch.
1966 MY Triple-Carburretor with higher output and fuel consumption as well, Monte Carlo 850
1967 MY New V4- Engine (1967-1978) Four cylinder in V configuration, four stroke 1498cc 65 hp, new alternator, new battery and starter, Monte Carlo 850
1969 MY Autolite carburettor, airfilter, new radiator and expansion tank.
1971 MY 1.7 Liter engine with 65hp
1975 MY Special Model fitted with 1700 V4 Engine known as 1975B
1977 MY Twin-Choke Carburettor raised horsepower to 68 hp with the designation to the model as 1977B.

Transmission:

Front-wheel drive, three-speed gearbox, hypoid bevel final drive, 5.43:1. Four-speed gearbox, Saxomat.

Dimensions:

Wheelbase 248.9cm/98″
Front Track 122cm/48″
Rear Track 122cm/48″
Ground Clearance 17.8cm/7″
Turning Circle (L) 10.29m/33.75′, (R) 10.74m/35’25″
Length 402.6cm/158.5″
Width 157.5cm/62″
Height 147cm/58″
Performance Max Speed 75.3 mph/120.88 kph
Acceleration 0-60 mph 25.6 secs
Standing Mile 23.6 secs
Average Fuel Consumption 32.3mpg (test)

Global Production:

Model Year – Units

1960 (2 Stroke) – ?
1961 (2 Stroke) – ?
1962 (2 Stroke) – ?
1963 (2 Stroke) – ?
1964 (2 Stroke) – ?
1965 (2 Stroke) – ?
1966 (2 Stroke) – ?
1967 (2 Stroke / V4) – ?
1968 (V4) – ?
1969 (V4)- ?
1970 (V4)- ?
1971 (V4) – ?
1972 (V4) – ?
1973 (V4) – ?
1974 (V4) – ?
1975 (V4) – ?
1976 (V4) – ?
1977 (V4) – ?
1978 (V4) – ?
1979 (V4) – ?
1980 (V4) – ?

I have recently received the 1981 Saab USA Press Kit featuring a full lineup of 900 models. I have provided the 6 press releases below, for your viewing pleasure, enjoy!

SAAB TURBO HATCHBACK FOR 1981

SAAB OFFERS REDESIGNED, LIGHTWEIGHT ENGINE FOR 1981

SAAB 900 FOR 1981

NEW SAAB INTERIOR FOR 1981

SAAB 900 NOTCHBACK SEDAN FOR 1981

SAAB TURB0 SEDAN FOR 1981

As a follow-up to the previous writeup on the past and present Saab designers and their achievements, it was necessary to include a chronological up-to-date listing of Saab projects both production and concepts.

This listing includes each Saab project, year introduced along with each designer and/or engineer that contributed to the given project.

This list is a work-in-progress, so any additions and/or modifications that you see necessary below, please add your comments to ensure correctness and accuracy.

Photo Credits: Saab Automobile

Design Contributions by Model

SAAB Scandia 90 (1946-1958)

Bror Bjurströmer

SAAB 91 (1947-1966)

A.J. Andersson

SAAB 92001 (Prototype) (1946/1947)

Sixten Sason

Gunnar Ljungström

SAAB 92 (1948-1956)

Sixten Sason

Gunnar Ljungström

SAAB 93 (1956-1959)

Sixten Sason

SAAB 94 (1956)

Sixten Sason

SAAB 95 (1959-1978)

Sixten Sason

SAAB 96 (1960-1980)

Sixten Sason

SAAB-SCANIA 97 (SonettII/V4 1966-1969) (SonettIII 1970-1974)

Björn Karlström

Sergio Coggiola

Gunnar A. Sjögren

SAAB-SCANIA 98 (Prototype, Cancelled) (1974)

Björn Envall

SAAB-SCANIA 99 (1969-1984)

Sixten Sason

Björn Envall

Saab 90 (1984-1987)

Björn Envall

SAAB-SCANIA 900 (1979-1993/94)

Björn Envall

SAAB-SCANIA EV-1 (1985)

Björn Envall

Saab 900 (NG) (1994-1998)

Björn Envall

Einar Hareide

SAAB-SCANIA 9000 (1985-1998)

Björn Envall

Giorgetto Giugiaro

Saab 9-1 (Speculative Design)

Saab 9-3 (1999-2002)

Einar Hareide

Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan (2003- )

Einar Hareide

Saab 9-3 Hybrid BioPower Convertible (2006 – )

Kjell ac Bergström

Saab 9-5 (1999- )

Einar Hareide (1999-2001)

Tony Catignani (1999-2001)

Magnus Jonsson (1999-2001)

Simon Padian (2002- )

Tomas Ostlund (2006 – )

Saab 9-5 BioPower E85 (2005 – )

Kjell ac Bergström

Saab 9-5 BioPower E100 (2007 – )

Kjell ac Bergström

Saab 9-X (2001)

Michael Mauer

Anthony Lo

Ola Granlund

Simon Padian

Saab 9-X BioHybrid (2008)

Anthony Lo

Andrew Dyson

Bryan Nesbitt

Saab 9-2X (2005-2006)

Michael Mauer

Anthony Lo

Ola Granlund

Per Jansson

Bengt Persson

Kjell-Ake Eriksson

Saab 9-3X (2002)

Michael Mauer

Anthony Lo

Simon Padian

Saab 9-3 SportHatch (2003)

Michael Mauer

Anthony Lo

Simon Padian

Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept (2008)

Anthony Lo

Andrew Dyson

Bryan Nesbitt

Kaj Zackrisson (Skier)

Saab 9-6X (Cancelled)

Saab 9-7X (2005-2009)

Per Janssan

Aero-X(2006)

Anthony Lo

Alex Daniel

Erik Rokke

Simon Padian

Photo Credit: Saab History

This just in from Bob Sinclair, former President of Saab-Scania of America, Inc. regarding the Saab-Scania Coffee mug.

A thank you to Jan-Willem Vester at Saab Automobile USA for providing the mug a number of months ago.

Here are the details about the importance of this coffee mug from Bob Sinclair, in his own words:

About the coffee mug, sometime in the early ’80s we established a multi-level follow-up that went to every buyer of a new Saab. I don’t recall the details, but it went something like this:

1. Standard “letter of welcome” like just about all car companies send.
2. Stereo tape cleaner, again with a message of thanks for choosing Saab.
3. Coffee mug, with a 3rd message, my card inside the mug.

The purpose was two-fold: To build favorable feelings toward Saab, of course, and to let owners know where to write if they had any problems…with their car, their dealer, or whatever.

Establishing direct contact with owners resulted in a huge amount of mail landing on my desk, but it also gave me direct insight into our operations across the nation. I read every letter. Our headquarters personnel, our employees out in the field, and our dealers all knew it. And they knew that complaints would be investigated, and if found to be legitimate the responsible dealer would be held accountable. At least that’s how it was supposed to work. Was it perfect? Of course not, but I think the effort involved was well worth it…and was just one more element of building a successful business for Saab here in the U. S.

I was sorting through the video collection today and uncovered a film on VHS titled “The 50th Annivesary Jumbileumdagen” or the Jubilee Day which took place in Trollhättan, Sweden on August 10th, 1987.

This 50th Anniversary is for the SAAB company since 1937 when they began as an aircraft manufacturer, but also represents the 40th Anniversary as an automobile manufacturer.

I enjoyed this documentary and hope you do too and I leave you to see the differences from the experience then, in comparison to the 60th Anniversary event I went to this past year again in Trollhättan, Sweden, now officially known as the “Saab Festival”.

Here is a summary of this documentary from the cover & refererse of this videocasette:

50th Anniversary Jumbileumdagen

A Video Documentary of the 50th Anniversary Celebration of SAAB Scania, held at its factory in Sweden, plus side trips of interest to all SAAB owners.

Comprehensive footage covering the whole event:

The Ultimate Concours, with every kind of SAAB from all over Europe and the States.

SAAB’s on parade: 92′s to 9000′s and more…

A Video stroll through the SAAB Museum

Parts, Parts, Parts: a look through a Swedish boneyard

Photo Credit: Saab-Scania AB

I have located the original photograph in my archives from the Frankfurt Motor Show that Saab used in their press release to showcase the original Saab 900 Turbo Cabriolet prototype in 1983. This vehicle was also featured in the Saab Olympics which took place in Los Angeles in 1984.

Here is the caption from the photograph as I am still looking to obtain this original press release:

SAAB 900 TURBO CABRIOLET — The Saab Turbo Cabriolet is a design study based on the Saab 900. The prototype presented at the 1983 Frankfurt Motor Show in West Germany is powered by the Swedish automaker’s 175-horsepower third generation turbocharged engine with four valves per cylinder and intercooler. Top speed is in excess of 125 miles per hour. No decision has been made about production.

The criteria involved apparently covered every aspect of the dealership from sales, service as well as the parts department.

While this film is quite nostalgic and somewhat fun to watch, the “Saab Dealer Of The Year” program was extremely important in fostering an environment for Saab dealerships to exceed expectations and goals whenever possible.

If you are a Saab Dealership located anywhere on the globe and are reading this, I would be interested in what programs either Saab Automobile runs, and/ or your dealership runs today that serve this objective in a modern day sense.

In the meantime, I will be contacting Saab of Finland to see if they have this criteria in their archives from this program.

Enjoy the video below. For those non-native Finnish speakers, I would suggest watching the film in two segments. The Introduction at 00:00 to 01:35 and the finale at 08:30 to 10:45.

I look forward to your comments.

This long promotional video mainly focuses the Saab olympic events that the employees participated in as well as a trip to the real Olympics and Disneyland as part of the program.

The only Saab Automobile that was featured, was an appearance of the first Saab 900 Convertible Prototype at 6 minutes, 55 seconds into the film, followed by a number of classic 900 hatchbacks as part of the opening ceremony for the Saab Olympics.

This film is a mix of a variety of films such as Saab Suite, Saab Aircraft Suite and other footage.

I find the promotional film kind of funny to watch, but I do appreciate the good footage of the Saab models it includes. Enjoy.

This film can be found permanently in the Saab Film Archive within the “1990″ section.

Saab 900 “Aero” Promo Finland – 1984

This video is the first in a series and features the 1985 model year 900i “notchback”, with a finnish voiceover. Enjoy.

Saab 900i Promo Finland – 1984

I have recently come into contact with one of the set designers that worked with Cramer Productions & the Saab Training Team during some of those years who was responsible for the design of these sets in addition to the interior of some of the training centers as well. He has kindly provided us both a rendering as well as a final product that has was personally responsible for designing and setting up.The rendering below is simply a work of art and the photograph below of the set design helps clarify that the two “SAAB” report videos in the film archive, are from 1990 and 1991 representing model years 91 and 92 respectively.

An enthusiastic thank you to Geoffrey Hall for donating his time and materials to Saab History.

Photo Credit & Caption: Geoffrey Hall Saab Dealership & Garage Facility rendered in 1989

Here is a video showing the “SAAB” report done in 1991 for the MY92 product launch that shows the Saab dealership set created for Cramer Productions back in 1989 by Geoffrey Hall.

Photo Credit & Caption: Geoffrey Hall The “SAAB” report studio set

Here is a video showing the “SAAB” report done in 1990 for the MY91 product launch with some good angles showing the set design pictured above also created for Cramer Productions in Boston, Massachusetts. Enjoy.

The Saab Experimental Vehicle (EV-1) was introduced at the International motorshow in Frankfurt, Germany between September 12th through the 22nd of 1985. It was at this event where Saab introduced the first experimental vehicle or concept car in Europe that was based off of the Saab 900 Turbo 16.

This vehicle was designed by Björn Envall at the Saab Design Center. The sheet metal and painting was done by Mellberg Custom in Nyköping, Sweden, the same town where Saab maintains a rather large parts & accessories facility.

The purpose of this vehicle was for Saab to test materials, components and technology in the real world. Unlike many concept vehicles, this vehicle was built similiar to a production vehicle in that it was extremely capable as a daily-driver vehicle in even the most extreme conditions.

The design is of the EV-1 is quite progressive with cutting-edge technology deployed throughout. One of the most significant integration of environmentally sensitive technologies in the EV-1 was the roof being built almost entirely of solar cells that produce electric power for the fans that provide ventilation in the car when located in close proximity to direct and indirect sunlight.

The front and rear parts of the EV-1 are built out of a lightweight aramid fibre reinforced plastic which can absorb impact and resume their original shape. The interior of the vehicle consists of lightweight seats that are electrically controlled, very progressive for the time.

The engine is a standard, 16-valve Turbo engine that has been tuned to provide 285 horsepower.

The chassis and suspension include standard components that were adopted from a standard Saab 900 Turbo model and tweaked and modified slightly.

Here are some more of the original photos from the press release:

Photo Credits: Saab Automobile

Photo Credit: Saab History

The Saab Factory in Trollhättan, Sweden began production in December of December of 1949 of the SAAB 92. At that time, the factory still exhibited it’s aircraft heritage with an air traffic control tower and wind sock elements that were built back in 1937 when they were manufacturing airplanes. From 1947 until 1949, SAAB built automobiles such as the 92001 prototype (URSAAB) and the SAAB 92 in Linköping, Sweden.

At the time of completion of the SAAB factory in 1949, the space available for automobile production covered approximately 190,000 square feet (17,700 sq. meters). This space consisted of the press, body and assembly, engine & transmission construction, upholstery and paint shops and lastly final assembly and adjustment areas. The SAABs built per day at the time were three to four which resulted in 1,246 SAAB 92 cars built in the first year, model year 1950.

In the 10 years of airplane production and 57 years of automobile production that have taken place at the SAAB factory in Trollhättan, the classic Saab 900 that began production in 1979 and ended in 1993 and 1994 with the convertible still remains the leader in units producted with nearly 1 million (908, 810)

Today, the Saab Automobile factory has increased dramatically over the years to include a number of enhancements, additions and expansions to the press, body assembly and most recently the paint shop in 2000. The inventory system the factory uses today is referred to as “Just In Time” or JIT where all materials and supplies are made available only for what is being produced at the present time, therefore there will be no overstock or wasted materials.

It is also worth mentioning that all vehicles produced in the Saab Automobile factory in Trollhättan, Sweden are all built on specific demand from Saab Automobile dealerships worldwide.

The Saab Automobile cars that are produced at the factory today include the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, Saab 9-3 SportCombi, Saab 9-5 Sedan and the Saab 9-5 SportCombi.

At the recent Saab Festival celebrating 60 years of an automobile manufacturer (3 years in Linköping, and 57 in Trollhättan), I had along with many, the opportunity to tour the factory. Factory tours are available year-round with advanced notice. While there are no opportunities for photos nor videos to be taken during the tours, I have been able to provide you some of the most recent footage of the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan being manufactured in the factory from the first model year, 2003.

Sources:

* Saab Automobile AB
* Sjogren, Gunnar A. The SAAB Way, the first 35 years of Saab cars, 1949-1984 Nyköping, Sweden Österbergs Tryckeri AB, 1984.