1991 Saab 900 Turbo SE Convertible
Innovative, safe and technologically advanced
Helped but turbo cars in the mainstream, and this car is one of the best examples of it.
Unique and attractive car from the best days of Saab
From the company that built its heritage by building fighter jets, the Saab 900 Turbo was both a quirky yet highly advanced do-it-all car. Performance, comfort, innovation, and safety were all attributes that were expected from Saab automobiles, always delivered in an attractive and efficient package. This 1991 Saab 900 Turbo SE was only sold in 1991 and is finished in rare Monte Carlo Yellow. The Saab 900 Turbo was years ahead of its time, introducing countless features still desired on vehicles sold new today.
Even though the architecture for the 900 Turbo was two decades old, Saab continued to add additional options and safety features year after year. As a company, Saab always had an ergonomically effective mindset about the construction and layout of their vehicles, resulting in a charming yet efficient ownership experience. The entire dashboard was laid out in a way that placed the most utilized buttons closest to the driver, resembling a fighter jet cockpit by being angled directly at the driver. The ignition was located between the seats next to the gear shift, and the car was required to be left in reverse to remove the key, and once removed the car was locked in reverse as a safety precaution. Other safety advancements included a curved windshield, which gave the driver more room in case of a crash along with better visibility, along with standard driver’s side airbags and anti-lock brakes. At this time, the Highway Loss Data Institute reported the 900 four-door sedan had the lowest overall injury rate of any car in its size category.
Along with its safety enhancements, the 900 Turbo was well regarded for its performance figures and its efficient drivetrain layout. The 900’s front wheel drive paired with a unique rear suspension geometry created an innovative driving experience that was useful in all seasons. The turbocharged engine was unique from other turbocharged powerplants of the time. The Porsche 911 Turbo of the period, for example, utilized a large turbocharged and a very low compression ratio to maximize horsepower output. This results in significant ‘turbo lag’ and very little torque below 3500 RPM. In the 900 Turbo, a much smaller turbocharger and higher compression ratio limited horsepower numbers, though allowed the car to have a very immediate power delivery, perfect for everyday driving.
Still today, Saabs are considered a cult classic, especially in unique specifications and colors like this Monte Carlo Yellow. Saabs always drew a different crowd due to their unique options and quirky designs. Sensible, stylish, and subtle are the best ways to describe the 900 Turbo, and while Saab enthusiasts have always recognized the value the cars offer, it will be interesting to see how the greater collector car market will respond to these vehicles soon.
Specifications
Engine: 2.0 Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four Cylinder
Horsepower: 143 @ 5000 RPM
Torque: 173 ft./lbs. @ 3000 RPM
Top Speed: 121 MPH
0-60 MPH: 9.0 Seconds
Drivetrain: 5-Speed Manual, Front-Wheel Drive
Weight: 2734 lbs.