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Classic Saab 900 - Miscellaneous

Pictorial History 1978-1985 - (1) 2

Introduction

The 900 series was introduced into the UK in 1979, and all models have a built-in filter through which any incoming air must Pass. The filter excludes pollen and 50 per cent of airborne bacteria, thus preventing the inside of the windows from collecting an obscuring film of dirt and helping hay fever sufferers. This was another "first" for Saab.

Following the introduction of the turbo engine, Saab unveiled its second generation turbo engine in 1980 fitted with APC (automatic performance control). This enables the engine to run on fuel ranging from 91 to 99 octane without "knocking". Apart from the engine's ability to perform on fuel of varying quality, the APC turbocharged engines have Improved low speed performances due to higher compression ratio, while mid-range acceleration has been further improved.

Shortly after the introduction of the APC, Saab unveiled a four-door saloon version of the 900 range at the 1980 Geneva Motor Show. Underneath the bonnet there was a new engine developed from the old 'B' series unit, and designated 'H'. This latest development of the power unit was considerably lighter than the old 'B' engine it replaced.

In March, 1981 the Saab 99 Turbo was discontinued since the longer 'H' unit would not fit beneath its bonnet.

Another Saab first was the fitting of asbestos-free brakes to all 1983 models in the range. This was the year that the Geneva Motor Show was chosen for the company to announce its 'third generation' engine, a turbocharged 16 valve unit with a hemispherical combustion chamber, enabling the spark plug to be located centrally for reduced fuel consumption and greater efficiency. The engine is fitted with an intercooler, and output is 175 bhp. at 5,300 rpm.

The new engine first appeared in the Saab 900 Turbo 16S in 1984, the company's most powerful model, in three door configuration with distinctive side skirts and anti-roll bars front and rear. It had a top speed of 130 mph. This was followed by the 900 Turbo 16 three and four-door models, with top speeds of 127 mph.

For the model year 1985, Saab rationalised its cars into the 90, 900 and 9000 ranges, the latter being the first brand new model to be announced by the company for 17 years. There was also a new corporate symbol featuring a crowned griffin encircled by elliptical rings.

1978

The new 900 series was launched in 1978, and was introduced on the British market the following Spring. It had a new bonnet line and deeper windscreen, with revised front and rear suspension. It had a built-in filter to screen pollen and 50 per cent of airborne bacteria, another 'first' for the company. It had the 1985cc engine, offering a choice of single (100 bhp)or twin (108 bhp)carburettors, fuel-injected (118 bhp)and turbo charged(145 bhp), eventually in two, three, four and five-door configurations.

1980

Saab unveiled its APC (automatic performance control) Turbo, which enables the engine to run on fuel ranging from 91 to 99 octane, and which improves low speed performance and midrange acceleration. The same year saw the introduction of a four-door sedan, complete with a new "H" engine, developed from the old "B" series unit. It was considerably lighter and more fuel efficient.

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