Saab History

Saab solutions to minimizing lift since 1947

Posted on 01. Apr, 2007 by Ryan.

Photo Credit: Saab Automobile

As a follow-up to the previous posting on Saab’s drag coefficients as early as 1947 with the Saab model 92, I have decided to provide information that covers the approaches that Saab has integrated to also successfully minimize lift.

This list is to provide additional lift-minimizing elements “outside of” the actual body design of the Saab models that I mentioned earlier on aerodynamics and drag coefficients.

If you have any additions, please post your comments to this post along with your e-mail address if you have photographs and any other relevant information.

Photo Credits: Saab Automobile

Saab 92 (1947-1956) –

Saab 93 (1956-1959) –

Saab 94 (1956 Sonett I) -

Saab 95 (1959-1978)
*Rear Roof spoiler

Saab 96 (1960-1980)
* spoiler added what year and were there variations successful or not?
* Front air dam

Saab 97(SonettII/V4 1966-1969) (SonettIII 1970-1974) –

Saab 99 (1969-1984)
* Rear spoilers for coupe and sedan respectively.

* Front Air Dam

Saab 900 (1979-1993/94)
* Rear Rubber Spoiler for Hatch, Sedan & Convertible models respectively.

* Rear Rubber tipped fiberglass Whale-Tail Spoiler for hatch models.

* Air-Flow Kit

* Front lower air dam

Saab 9000CC (1985-1992)
* Full wrap-around rear rubber spoiler 1985 only

* Standard rear-deck rubber spoiler

* Fiberglass Bridge Spoiler

* Front Spoiler

* Air Flow Kit


Saab 9000CD (1988-1993)
* Air Flow Kit

* Fiberglass spoiler

Saab 9000CS (1993-1998)
* Fiberglass Standard spoiler

* Fiberglass Bridge spoiler

Saab NG 900 (1994-1998)
* Rear Rubber Spoiler

* Rear Fiberglass spoiler with rubber tip

* Rubber Spoiler (Convertible)

* Front Spoiler

Saab 9-3 (1999-2002)
*Rear Spoiler

* Rear Fiberglass pedestal Spoiler
*Rising Spoiler (Viggen only)

Saab 9-3 Convertible (1999 – 2003, 2004- )
* Rear Spoiler

Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan (2003 -
*Rear Spoiler

*Rear Aero Spoiler

Saab 9-3 SportCombi (2005 -
* Rear Roof Spoiler

Saab 9-5 (1999 –
* Front Lip Spoiler

* Rear Bridge Spoiler

* Rear Pedestal Spoiler

Saab 9-5 SportCombi (2000-
* Rear Roof Spoiler

Saab 9-2x (2005-2006)

Saab 9-7x (2005 -

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SAAB & IKEA

Posted on 30. Jan, 2007 by Ryan.

Saab Automobile product range: Safe, versatile, practical, unique and progressive.
IKEA product range — Modern, functional, attractive, and progressive.

- Different companies, similiar product philosophies

Here is a photo that was recently provided to me of a Saab 99 that at the time, was the choice Saab model for those trips to IKEA. I was wondering how many of you have made it to IKEA in your Saab and have found that the plat-packed design of many IKEA goods works well with the utility and practicality of the Saab Automobile.

In the discussions I have had, I have heard from people that the 9000 was the best, and I have also heard that the 900 convertible was the best because the top goes down and the sky is the limit. Is there a “best” Saab model for such an arrangement?

In an effort to get your responses, I have provided a poll below for you to choose what Saab model in your opinion, is most suited at being the “best” Saab for an IKEA trip. I look forward to your poll results.

Update: Incredible voter turnout today! I have closed the poll at 150, It looks as though the Saab 9-5 SportCombi is the winner! I will post more on this in the coming days.

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What’s in a color? – The Saab Palette

Posted on 23. Jan, 2007 by Ryan.

The Saab Palette continues to expand into new colors along with the growth of the brand.

When one thinks back to some of the colors that stood out over the rest, do you think of Monte Carlo Yellow with the 1992 900 Convertible or Odoardo Grey with the SPG or is it Watermelon Green being used as the color by default with the SAAB 92?

I have developed with the help of my peers, a series of charts representing the paint names and codes used for every Saab model that has ever existed (minus concept cars) The objective of this project is accuracy, completeness and clarity.

Finally, a comprehensive color palette listing that includes the names, codes as well as real-life examples of what these colors look like on the year and models they were used on.

It seemed appropriate to finally release this project in-lieu of being complete so that the public can get a chance to see it and hopefully contribute to the project with additions, modifications and real-life photos of their Saab for those examples of the colors in application.

Please take a look at the new Color Palette section on the right-hand column and contact us with your contribution to the list, enjoy!

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A 9-2X saved my life

Posted on 16. Jan, 2007 by Ryan.

Here is a story of how a Saab saved a life of a visitor that owns a 9-2x. In case you did not know, the Saab 9-2x was ranked as “Top Safety Pick” by the IIHS Only Luxury Car Manufacturer with Two IIHS “Gold Awards” in 2006.

Below is the official press release on safety from Saab Automobile USA.

5-18-2006

Detroit, Mich. — With the 9-2X premium compact joining the 9-3 Sport Sedan, Saab is the first luxury carmaker to receive a pair of ‘Top Safety Pick – Gold Award’ designations from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Gold Award is a best-of-the-best distinction that recognizes car designs that provide the best occupant protection in front, side and rear crashes based on Institute testing.

“We commend Saab for making the 9-2X the second Saab vehicle to earn our demanding Top Safety Pick award”, said Adrian Lund, President of the IIHS.

The IIHS frontal impact test is carried out at 40 mph against a deformable fixed barrier, with a 40 percent driver’s side offset. In the IIHS side impact test a deformable barrier constructed to resemble a full-size sport utility vehicle, is propelled at 31 mph against the driver’s side of the car to measure side impact protection. The rear-end test simulates a 20-mph rear impact into a stationary car, during which the front seat/head restraint performance is assessed.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is a non-profit research and communications organization in the United States funded by auto insurers. It investigates the crashworthiness of vehicles. More information at www.IIHS.org

This personal story should set the record straight for real-life safety in the Saab 9-2x.

Thank you very much for your contribution below.

I was driving home from work Friday, less than a mile from home when suddenly a Sante Fe pulled a left hand turn in front of me, I slowed to miss her and then
the trailing GMC S15 pulled in front too. No chance to avoid, hit her head-on at 40mph. Both bags deploy, I unbelt, jump out and help the teenage girl driver out of her car and to the side of the intersection after checking for injuries.

Both cars look totaled – GMC had to be 4-wheel dragged off the road – front totally squashed, wheels turned in etc etc. My Aero is totally crumpled back to the wheel wheels – radiator crushed and drained, hood rolled up to the windshield – but all 4 wheels were were turning and the tow rolled it out of the intersection. All doors/hatch still opened, no glass or crush into the passenger compartment. Police thought I was a responder (active duty Navy in uniform) vice one of the victims – deputy was surprised that I had walked out unaided.

I’m sore and have a sprained wrist and a bruised right shin (I was downshifting to avoid car #1) but the hospital kept Xraying looking for broken bones – couldn’t believe I had escaped so cheap in a high energy accident. Waiting to hear about other driver – her insurance called that night to claim responsibility and make arrangements.

I know this thread needs pictures – I’ll get them from my professional photographer neighbor who came down and photographed everything.

I want my car back but I’m thinking it’s a total.

My takeaways – wear your belts, hone your driving skills, drive a car that can avoid trouble and if it finds you, drive one that can help you survive.

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A Tribute to the Saab 9-2x (2004-2006)

Posted on 03. Jan, 2007 by Ryan.

Photo Credit: Saab Automobile AB

The Saab 9-2x, notable for it’s introduction of all-wheel drive, has had an interesting history and as of the first of this year, has recently hit the end of it’s journey. The Saab 9-2x can now be officially classified as a limited edition, collector’s car.

Here is a historical tribute to the Saab 9-2′s contribution to the Saab Brand.

2003

First press release and video from the 2003 Auto Show in Los Angeles where the 9-2x made it’s first debut.

12-18-2003

* Early entry in emerging premium sports compact segment
* Standard full-time all-wheel-drive for improved handling, traction and versatility
* Two models – 227 hp 9-2X Aero and the 165 hp 9-2X Linear
* Styling, performance and driving characteristics create a sporty, fun-to-drive offer in the segment
* Start of sales in the U.S. and Canada in July 2004

The new 2005 Saab 9-2X is the next significant step in the biggest product development program in Saab’s history. Saab – the fastest growing European premium car brand in the American market– recently launched the 9-3 Sport Sedan and 9-3 Convertible model ranges. Now the new 9-2X continues this product offensive.

With standard full-time all-wheel-drive, powerful engines, and distinctive European design, the Saab 9-2X is a unique and early offering in a car segment just emerging in the American market: the premium sports compact segment. The first Saab 9-2X models will go on sale in the U.S. and Canada July 1, 2004 – ahead of many competitors who are also bringing products to this market.

“The Saab 9-2X is the ideal addition to our line-up,” says Peter Augustsson, Saab’s President and CEO. “Like the recently-launched Saab 9-3 models, it is extremely dynamic and is a car that you want to drive. Additionally, its price point will attract some new, young, enthusiastic customers to Saab.”

For many customers, the Saab 9-2X will be their first premium brand vehicle as prices start below $25,000. In addition, customer surveys show that up to 40 percent of all Americans are looking for all-wheel-drive in their next vehicle – a feature standard in all Saab 9-2X models, a distinct advantage as Saab enters this new segment.

“The Saab 9-2X will help us continue our extremely strong momentum,” said Debra Kelly-Ennis, President of Saab Cars USA. “We are definitely on a roll. The 9-3 Sport Sedan is more than doubling the sales of its predecessor, we are in the midst of launching our all-new 9-3 Convertible, and this exciting new car will arrive in the early summer 2004.”

The Design: Progressive with a strong, dynamic character
“As the new 9-2X range is tremendously fun to drive and since we are targeting a young and enthusiastic customer, we decided to express the strong and dynamic character of the 9-2X in its design and even add a bit more of an aggressive touch compared to the rest of our line-up,” comments Saab’s Executive Director of Design, Michael Mauer.

The new Saab 9-2X takes a number of styling cues from recently-presented Saab concept and production vehicles and presents Saab’s view on what a fun-to-drive, versatile 5-door vehicle should look like.

“The Saab 9-2X needs to look as aggressive as its driving capabilities,” says Mauer. “Additionally, even though it is a functional 5-door vehicle, it shouldn’t look like a traditional hatchback. Therefore, we spent a great deal of time making sure it had a strong face and sleek Scandinavian lines.”

The vehicle retains Saab’s now familiar curvaceous front that harmoniously integrates the typical three-hole-grille and the low horizontally emphasized headlamps that wrap around into the sides of the car. Below the bumper area, a pronounced air intake signals the dynamic potential of the new sports compact. On the top-of-the-line 9-2X Aero model, the clean line of the front hood is accentuated by a nicely integrated air intake that feeds air to the intercooler of the turbocharged engine.

As with the 2004 Saab 9-5 Aero SportWagon, the horizontal lines in the design of the
9-2X’s rear end contribute to the car’s wide and powerful stance. Additionally, the rear apron’s dark accent provides a sporty flair.

Performance: Sporty and focused on the driver
The Saab 9-2X’s advanced full-time all-wheel-drive and boxer four cylinder engines are firsts in Saab’s history. Further technical highlights include four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes which, when partnered with a latest generation
4-channel/4-sensor anti-lock brake system (ABS), provide enhanced driver control. Traction and handling performance of the 9-2X Aero is further improved by a viscous limited-slip differential at the rear.

The turbocharged and intercooled two-liter high performance DOHC 9-2X Aero engine produces 227 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 217 lb.-ft. (294 Nm) of torque @ 4,000 rpm. The power plant of the Saab 9-2X 2.5 is naturally aspirated and delivers 165 hp @ 5,600 rpm as well as a maximum torque of 166 lb.-ft. (225 Nm) @ 4,000 rpm. Both cars provide a standard
5-speed manual transmission; a 4-speed automatic transmission is available as an option.

“The Saab 9-2X is the best example yet of Saab’s brand promise of delivering sporty, driver focused performance,” says Kjell-Åke Eriksson, Saab Executive Director for Future Products. “It is truly designed for people who love to drive, whether that be on a demanding section of a curvy road or during a relaxed long-distance drive on the highway.”

Five-door Versatility: Form follows function
Surfboards, skis, in-line skates, camping gear and more all fit well into the Saab 9-2X. With a wheelbase of 99.4 inches (2,525 mm) and an overall length of 175.6 inches (4,460 mm), the Saab 9-2X offers nimble handling around town and on backcountry roads. It also holds up to 27.9 cubic feet (790 dm3) of cargo space with the seatback up and 61.6 cubic feet (1,744 dm3) with the seatback folded down. A 60/40-split fold-down rear seatback is standard in all 9-2X models and the large rear luggage door opening gives optimal access to the trunk space provided.

Weighing in at just under 3,100 pounds (1,400 kilos), all 9-2X versions return excellent highway mileage anticipated to be in the 26 to 28 mpg range.

Peter Augustsson, Saab Automobile’s President and CEO, puts the launch of the Saab 9-2X in broader perspective: “The Saab 9-2X is a milestone in expanding our model range and our customer base, especially in the very important North American market. We see a rapidly emerging segment in the United States for a premium, small car below the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan. And being one of the first entries, we intend to shape that segment.”

2004

The 9-2x was officially released in 2004 and came in two models, the Linear and Aero models.

Below are some of the first television ads from 2004.

2005

The 9-2x was a top seller during the summer of 2005 when GM released their employee pricing for everyone campaign.

Here is a television ad and promotional video done in 2005.

2006

In 2006, the Saab 9-2x was ranked as “Top Safety Pick” by the IIHS Only Luxury Car Manufacturer with Two IIHS “Gold Awards”

Saab 9-2X joins 9-3 Sport Sedan as “Top Safety Pick” Gold Award from the IIHS.

Below is the official press release from Saab Automobile USA.

5-18-2006

Detroit, Mich. — With the 9-2X premium compact joining the 9-3 Sport Sedan, Saab is the first luxury carmaker to receive a pair of ‘Top Safety Pick – Gold Award’ designations from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Gold Award is a best-of-the-best distinction that recognizes car designs that provide the best occupant protection in front, side and rear crashes based on Institute testing.

“We commend Saab for making the 9-2X the second Saab vehicle to earn our demanding Top Safety Pick award”, said Adrian Lund, President of the IIHS.

The IIHS frontal impact test is carried out at 40 mph against a deformable fixed barrier, with a 40 percent driver’s side offset. In the IIHS side impact test a deformable barrier constructed to resemble a full-size sport utility vehicle, is propelled at 31 mph against the driver’s side of the car to measure side impact protection. The rear-end test simulates a 20-mph rear impact into a stationary car, during which the front seat/head restraint performance is assessed.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is a non-profit research and communications organization in the United States funded by auto insurers. It investigates the crashworthiness of vehicles. More information at www.IIHS.org

2007 –

The 9-2x now lay in the hands of their rightful owners including a place in the Saab USA Heritage Collection in Michigan

Over its lifetime, there has been a growing enthusiast following to the Saab 9-2x which in one way or another, tend to look to the website www.saab92x.com as the dominant resource of Saab 9-2x information. On this site you can talk with others who own the 9-2x, learn about the history of the 9-2x, how to fix maintain it yourself or where to get it serviced, and any other details you want to know about it. Please visit the site below for more information,

The Saab 9-2x is a piece of Saab History that we will never forget.

1.3.2007

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IIHS Saab Crash Tests 1999-2005

Posted on 21. Dec, 2006 by Ryan.

Today, the IIHS just over the Potomac delivered a series of Saab Crash Test videos. These VHS videocasettes range from 1999 until 2005. I understand that this video footage will clearly indicate a chronological safety program that continues to get better as the years progress.

I am looking forward to seeing these crash tests that further illustrate Saab’s unparalleled safety throughout the ages.

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Saab Safety, the IIHS and the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan

Posted on 15. Dec, 2006 by Ryan.

I have mentioned in a previous posting about the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan receiving The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) award three years in a row. On the topic of Saab’s real life safety, I am providing a video that further illustrate these statistics for your review.

For more information on the IIHS rating system and the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, please visit this link below.

Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan

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Missing Family in 9-2x, cont.

Posted on 06. Dec, 2006 by Ryan.

I was recently made aware of the fact from Trollhattansaab that James Kim of the 9-2x family that were lost in Oregon, did not make it.

The full story is here on CNN

Our hearts are with the Kim Family, their friends and relatives.

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