Saab 9000 16v S Conv
ENGINE 1985cc/4-cyl/DOHC POWER 185bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 201lb ft@2800rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 131mph 0-60MPH 8.2 sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 24-32mpg TRANSMISSION FWD, five-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 155,013 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
This Saab feels incredibly solid with a good sense of weight behind the controls - and none of the scuttle shake or rattles you might expect from a convertible. Despite that heaviness, the steering is pleasingly light. It’s also very accurate, with no vibrations or wobble. The turbocharged engine zings and buzzes as it revs, pulling with impressive power. The ride is tight and the suspension firm, giving good control for a composed and sporty ride. The brakes are strong, pulling the car up to a halt rapidly with no fuss and no pulling to either side.
BODYWORK CHECK
There are no signs of rust anywhere on the car and the lower grey plastic cladding panels are in very good condition with no cracks, scuffs or fading. The big impact bumpers are also mostly in good shape, aside from the top of the offside rear corner, which has some cracks and crazing in it from a small knock. The red paint is a deep gloss all round with only the odd stone chip, and the black fabric hood – complete with glass rear window – folds correctly, has no rips or tears in it and appears to be water tight. The later-style Saab lattice spoke alloy wheels were reconditioned when they were added three years ago, so are in great shape and wear 205/50/16 tyres, all of which have good tread remaining.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The tan leather seats are in very good overall condition with just a light patina of wear to the surface of the driver’s seat base edge. The matching tan carpets are also excellent and the hood lining and door cards are in lovely order, though the grain texture in the driver’s door top is slightly discoloured. The factory leather steering wheel has some marks in the leather, but the spec level is good with electric windows all round, electric mirrors, power hood, heated seats and an aftermarket Sony CD head unit.
UNDER THE BONNET
The engine has been upgraded with a Two Stroke to Turbo fuel injection kit using genuine Saab Direct Injection parts and Trionic 5.5 engine management, along with a lighter flywheel, crank position sensor and on-board diagnostic port. The result is a steady idle and acceleration and economy improved by approximately 1015 per cent over factory figures. The gearbox, suspension and steering all feel good and there is no sign of accident damage or rust in the engine bay.
THE CCW VIEW
This 900 is in incredible allround condition with a solid body and great interior. The addition of fuel injection has improved its drivability, making it an even better proposition. In fact, there’s absolutely nothing stopping you from using this car as a daily over summer.