Saab 900 Turbo
ENGINE 1985cc/4-cyl/OHC POWER 185bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 212lb ft@2800rpm TOP SPEED 137mph 0-60MPH 8.5sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 23-35mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, five-speed manual MoT November 2017 ODOMETER 199,275 miles The engine fires instantly and the turbo soon reaches its power sweet spot once it’s overcome the initial lag. Gear selection and throttle response are both extremely smooth and the uprated sports springs and dampers behave as they should, with effective brakes providing prompt stopping power.
BODYWORK CHECK
The Ruby Mica metallic paint is in good condition, with only slight touching up evident around the bumpers, but a good mop would probably bring the paint up to a more sparkling finish. There are no dents in the body and no rust in the usual Saab 900 rot-spots, such as the wheelarches and door bottoms. The floorpan appears solid and shutlines are straight and even. The radiator grille is a quality aftermarket substitute and the factory grey three-spoke Super Aero 15in alloy wheels, which are a lighter shade than standard, have a couple of lacquerrelated issues. The Vredestein tyres are cracked and ought to be replaced. The tailgate and rear bumper have been professionally resprayed.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The front seats’ original Zegna wool inserts have recently been replaced with dark grey leather due to wear and tear, but the door cards and rear seats are as per original and look like new. Other improvements include a new headlining and dashboard top and a contemporary Kenwood CD/radio. All the electrics, including the steel sliding sunroof, air conditioning and electric windows, work as they should and the switchgear, gauges, gearstick gaiter and wooden dash panelling are all in fine order.
UNDER THE BONNET
This Saab has been subject to a full brake overhaul in the last 18 months, including new lines, hoses, discs and pads. In addition, the ageing headlights, window regulators and battery have been replaced and the sunroof mechanism overhauled. It was serviced in March 2017 (the service book is fully stamped up) and the original Saab wallet is full of history dating back to its original sale. Various factory and service stickers are apparent in the engine bay, which looks tidy and cared-for rather than to show standard. All fluids are to their correct levels and everything appears to be factory orginal.
THE CCW VIEW
The Saab 900 Turbo is a true design classic and this limited edition Ruby swansong model is getting increasingly scarce, being number 60 of just 150 UK cars produced in 1993, the final year of classic 900 production. It may have had five former keepers and the mileage might be somewhat on the high side, but you would struggle to find a more cossetted, yet properlyused Saab than this. Look after it, and you’ll be left with a steadily appreciating classic.