2

"The Saab philosophy is to design and develop

cars which inspire pride and commitment."

From the Chairman

Dear Saab Friend:
Your many comments and
compliments concerning the
recent enlargement of Saab
Soundings were appreciated,
specifically the addition of the
"Readers Write" column which
we have dedicated to you.

" ... never in Saab's history, have we

II ad such impressive products or
support services to offer you. It is
quite an accomplishment for a
relatively small automotive entity
such as Saab to not only excel-but to
set standards as well- in this fiercely
competitive and crowded automobile
market ... "

This issue contains a lot of

exciting news about Saab's 1991
model line up. In fact, never in
Saab's history, have we had such
impressive products or support
services to offer you. It is quite
an accomplishment for a relatively small automotive entity
such as Saab to not only excelbut to set standards as well-in
this fiercely competitive and
crowded automobile market
which is characteristic of the
Nineties. But indeed, Saab
continues to be a leader.
For example, realizing that
discriminating consumers are
looking increasingly for valueoriented, long-term automotive
purchases, Saab has more than
doubled the term of its new car
limited warranty from 3 years/
36,000 miles to 6 years/80,000
miles for all1991 Saab 9000 and
900 passenger cars, while
bumper-to-bumper protection is
provided for 3 years/40,000
miles. In terms of industry
leadership, Saab's warranty term
is longer than that of any other
import sold in America.
Purchasers of 1991 Saabs
are also automatically enrolled
at no charge in the Saab Roadside Assistance Program for 3

years/40,000 miles, which offers

such services as emergency road
repair, towing, trip interruption
protection, and even travel
planning assistance.
With the introduction of
its new 2.3-liter, 16-valve,
turbocharged engine as standard
equipment in Saab's impressive
9000 Turbo and 9000 CD Turbo
models, Saab continues to
redefine the balance of power in
its long line of legendary Turbos
and furthers its reputation as a
recognized leader of passengercar turbocharging. Through the
expert usc of advanced production techniques and technologyturbocharging, intercooling, twin
counter-rotating balance shafts,
and Saab's patented Direct
Ignition-the new, 200 horsepower engine provides extremely
high power output for its displacement while still offering
responsible fuel efficiency. The
talent of our engineers in
Trollhattan speaks for itself
when you consider that the 9000
Turbo sprints from 0-60 mph in
6.4 seconds laccording to one of
this country's leading automotive enthusiast magazines) but
still provides EPA estimated fuel
economies of 19 MPG "City,"
25 MPG " Highway," when
equipped with a manual transmission.
Saab's total systems design
approach in engineering the
9000 also created generous
interior proportions and passenger comfort which is why the
Saab 9000 is the only European
sedan to be rated a "Large Car"

by the U.S. Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA). The
EPA has also concluded that the
Saab 9000 offers the best fuel
economy of any model in the
"Large Car" category.
In addition, the versatility,
value, and European charm
found in the most recen t addition to the Saab range, the new
entry-level Saab 9000, combining
utility with superb handling and
road manners, is not available in
any other automobile priced
below $23,000. Its outstanding
safety record an d full complement of standard and comfort
features enhance the value of the
most m odestly priced 9000,
which is available as a 5-door
hatchback at a manufacturer's
suggested retail of $22,895.
For 1991, the 900 and 900S
models benefit from a new 140
horsepower, 2.1 -liter, naturallyaspirated engine, which provides
improved performance and better
passing power. In today's automotive environment which is
characterized by similarity,
Saab's 900 family enjoys a
distinctive identity all its own .
In terms of value, the 900 3-door
hatchback, priced at $18,295, is
the lowest priced imported car in
America equipped with anti-lock
brakes, and a driver's-side air bag
as standard equipment. Headlight wiper/washers are also now
standard on every '91 Saab.
Both Saab 9000 and 900
models are consistently in the
leading ranks of their respective
size classes of real world safety

studies conducted by America's

Highway Loss Data Institute
(HLDI) and the Folksam Insurance Company in Saab's Swedish
homeland. In fact, Saab 900 4door sedans are the safest cars in
their size class in the HLDI
report, while Folksam named the
Saab 9000 the "safest car in
Sweden."
In owning a Saab, you
can also take pride in knowing
that Saab Cars USA, Inc. strives
to be an environmentally
concerned leader as it continues
to research innovative technologies and employ responsible
business practices that respect
the environment. (See page 18
for details.)
In closing I would like to
take this opportunity to introduce Mr. Sten Helling to you,
recently-appointed President and
Chief Operating Officer of Saab
Cars USA, Inc., who has worked
for Saab for m ore than 10 years
and has an extensive import
automotive background. I am
extremely confident in Mr.
Helling's ability to keep your
best interests in mind as he
directs Saab car activities in the
United States, and together we
enter the exciting decade that
awaits us. Although a long-time
colleague of mine, perhaps the
best way that I can describe Sten
to you is by quoting one of your
peers, Patrick S. Bolmeyer,
President of the Delaware Valley
Saab Club, who said after
recen tly meeting him at the
annual Saab Owner's Convention in Sturbridge, Massachu-

setts, "He comes across having

that same quality as the rest of
the gang at Saab ... just one of
the guys." (For a more detailed
introduction to Sterr's qualifications as President and Chief
Operating Officer of this very
special car company, see Page 8.)
He and I look forward to
travelling into the 1990's with
you, as a member of the distinctive Saab family.
With best wishes for a happy
and safe new year.

Robert J. Sinclair
Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer

Our 1983 Saab 900S had racked up 157,000 miles

uneventfully. Then, two Saturdays ago, our sixteenyear-old daughter Helen hurried out of the house to
help a friend pick out a prom gown. A few minutes
later, we learned afterward, she reached into the back
seat while driving to find the directions to the prom
shop. The result: a head-on collision with a telephone
pole at 40 miles per hour. Helen stepped out of the car
unharmed. She said she was achy from the seatbelts
holding her in place. Otherwise, not a scratch-and this
in a car with mega-miles, and without an airbag! O ur
old Saab is just a memory. But H elen is healthy.
Without the strength of a Saab, she could have been
just a memory too.
- Gary Stock
In 1980 I bought a Saab 99 GLi. I am now
celebrating the l Oth anniversary of my car, and
wanted to let you know how happy I've been with it.
I've never had any major problem w ith it and after 10
years and 140,000 miles, I think this is extraordinary!
My car h as never failed to start and I still depend on it
everyday. This has been the best car I've ever bought!
Thank you!
- Tamara Green
Since m y last letter to you several years ago, concerning m y 1980 Saab 900, the mileage on this car has
reached 340,000. I fully expect many more years, an d
many tens of thousands of additional reliable trouble
free miles from this amazing vehicle.
- Norman Jay Handler

Saab's recordbreaking "Long Run" at

Talladega International
Speedway, Alabama, in
1986 showed that three
stock Saab 9000 Turbos
could reach 62,000 miles
(100,000 km) in three
straight w eeks of topspeed driving. Subsequently, Saab Field
Technical Representative Richard W. Miller
has been quie tly racking
up the miles in his 1988
9000 Turbo hatchback
test car, which has been
part of Saab's long-term
air bag test fleet. Saab
routinely runs test fleet
programs to verify the
performance and durability of new technologies under American
driving and environmen-

tal conditions. Miller's

test car has accrued
206,104 miles with no
major component
system failures. Shown
here presenting Rich
with an undeployed air
bag in recognition of his
vehicle's longevity and
outstanding service
record in the air bag test
fleet is Hakan Cederlund
(far left), Technical
Assistance and Special
Projects Representative,
Saab Automobile AB,
Trollhattan, Sweden,
Mary S. Knowlton,
Service Operations
Administrator/ and John
B. Vinci (far right),
Service Operations
Manager1 both representatives of Saab Cars
USA1 Inc., Orange, CT.

In our next issue of Saab Soundings .. .

The Readers Write subject will be Saab's cavernous
and flexible catgo capacity. How much have you
s tuffed in a Saab?
Address your submissions to the Readers Write1 Public
Relations D epartment, Saab Cars USA1 Inc., Saab
Drive, Orange, CT 06477.

VOLUME 28

NUMBER 2

~~

THE MAGAZINE FOR SAAB OWNERS

Contents

18

From the Chairman

"Never in Saab's history,
have we had such
impressive products ... "

Breathing Easier
in the Decade
of the Environment
A ventilation air filter
that traps pollen, dust,
soot, and other
airborne particles.

4
The Readers Write
The subject is
Saab longevity and
durability

19
Regulate Your
Driving Habits
To Save Fuel
There's no reason
to spend more money
on gasoline than you
have to.

6
Saab Scene
Changing Times and
USA Today praise,
some free advice,
lane change indicators,
and more.

8
Meet Sten Helling Saab's new President and
Chief Operating Officer
and
David J. Herman
Addresses Automotive
News World Congress

9
New Year Ushers in
The Pinnacle of Saab
Performance
Saab continues to set a
brisk development pace
in 1991 with the
introduction of
its new 200 hp
turbocharged engine.

20
On the Cover
Saab's 900 Turbo Convertible Special Edition,
shown here in Saab's new striking Monte Carlo
Yellow is now available in limited quantities. It
is also ;bown in new Platana Grey metallic at the
3rd Annual Chicago Auto Show (page 11) where
the 900 Turbo Convertible Special Edition
recently made its debut.

13

15

Don't Stick Your Neck

Out by Choosing the
Wrong Head Restraint
A discussion of
"whiplash," ways to
help prevent it from
happening to you, and
how Saab has
engineered its cars to
keep you comfortable
and safe.

Designing Safe Cars

is More Than
Just Child's Play
Automotive mishaps
claim more lives than
childhood diseases or
other accidents.
Learn what Saab has
done to help protect
children from harm.

COPYRIGHT 1991 by Saab Cars USA, Inc. Modification Rights Reserved.

The 1990
Barber Saab Series:
Unmodified Engines
That Race to Win
The largest starting
field ever, a clear
champion, and
internally-unmodified
Saab turbocharged
engines performing
flawlessly once more.

23
Vintage Views
Part I
Saab Cars USA, Inc.
proudly showcases its
corporate heritage
through its
Headquarters
Collection.

News You Can Use

Changing
Times
Praises
Saab 9000
and 900
The personal finance
magazine, Changing
Times, recently informed its more than
one million readers,
"How To Get The Car
You Want At A Price
You'll Like." The
publication's editors
named the Saab 9000,
priced at $22,895, as the
"Safety Leader" in the
$20,000 to $30,000 price
range, and the Saab 900
Turbo, with a suggested
list price of $26,295, as
yielding the "Most
Miles Per Gallon" in the
same price class.

Saab 9000
Makes USA
Today's10
Best List
According to USA
Today's recent automotive safety report,
vehicle operators are
more likely to get hurt
driving a small car
instead of a large one.
Ranking both domestic
and imported marques
in terms of the latest
three-year insurance
study by the Highway

Loss Data Institute,

USA Today named the
Saab 9000 among its "10
Best" cars in terms of
fewest auto injuries.
(The Saab 9000 is the
only import sedan to be
rated by the Environmental Protection
Agency as a "Large
Car.")

The previous edition of

Saab Soundings included a
"Something Saab" insert
showing a carefully chosen
assortment of Saab identified
products and clothing. Saab's
competitively priced selection
of sportswear and personal
accessories makes ideal gifts for
the man or woman in your life
who seems to have "everything. " To place an order or
request a "Something Saab"
brochure simply call:
Saab's Last
8-valve Engine
\.1

Saab's
Last
8-Valve
Engine
More than
750,000 units
of this classic
8-valve Saab
engine, first
used to power
the Saab 99
EMS in 1972,
have been
manufactured
at Saab's
engine factory
in Sodenalje,
Sweden. From 1991
models onward, only
Saab's latest, exceptionally fuel-efficient, 16valve engines will be
assembled in this plant.
Saab introduced
the 16-valve engine in
1985 and has specified it
exclusively in the U.S.
market since 1989. The
industry now recognizes
that an engine with four
valves per cylinder offers
more effective combustion of the fuel/air
mixture than in conventional engines.

[>

Crossair
Acquires
200tb
Saab 340

{800) 422-4684.

Out of Left Field

<J

In a recent survey conducted by Advertising Age

Magazine, identical letters describing real-life problems that a staff member encountered with a one year
old vehicle were sent to 25 automobile companies.
The idea was simple: to determine when and
how each manufacturer would respond to an owner in
need, in the interest of resolving such a product
concern. What the manufacturers weren't told,
however, was that the survey was really out of left
field, and that the true identity of the reputed "consumer" was the national magazine. Furthermore, the
results were being monitored in the secret survey and
would later be published.
Who was the manufacturer to respond first? Saab
Cars USA, Inc., seven days after the letter was postmarked. The Orange, Connecticut-based Consumer
Relations group went so far as to dig up the author's
telephone number, which wasn't included in the
letter, to speed up the response even funher.

To make it easier for you to talk with our

Consumer Relations staff, we now have
this single toll-free number for you to call
from anywhere in the United States:

(800) 955-9007.
Crossair
Acquires
200th
Saab 340
Recently the Saab
Aircraft Division,
Linkoping, Sweden,
delivered the 200th Saab
340 regional airliner to
Crossair of Switzerland.
This irnponant milestone makes Saab the
first new technology
regional airline manufacturer to deliver 200
aircraft in the 30 to 40
seat class. More than
100 additional340's
with substantial options
are on the Saab Aircraft
order books. Due to
increased demand, Saab
Aircraft is increasing its
commercial production
by SO% this year.

Free Advice
for Winter
Driving
For a free copy of Winter
Motoring, a glove
compartment-size
manual offering tips for
safe motoring in challenging, slippery conditions, simply visit any of
Saabs 344 U.S. dealers.

New Saab
Facility
Saab officials recently
celebrated a ribboncutting ceremony to
open its new parts distribution center in Union
City, California, which
will primarily serve Saab
dealers in the West and
portions of the Central
and Southern Regions.

Lane
Change .
Indicators
For Safety

{Photo by Neudoerf{er/Omni)

Saab Club
Activities
Last year's National
Saab Club Convention,
coordinated by the West
Mountain Saab Club in
Massachusetts, was held
at the Sheraton Inn in
Sturbridge. Technical
sessions including guest
speakers from Saab Cars
USA, Inc., parts swapping, concours competition, rallying, new model
drives, Saab customized
raffle gifts, and the
ability to mingle with
Saab enthusiasts from all
comers of the country,
contributed to making
the annual convention a
great success. This year's
convention is scheduled
to take place on August
2, 3, and 4, 1991 at
Crystal Mountain Resort
in Washington State. For
further details, contact
Skip Schott at 20220
80th Ave., S.E., Snohornish,Washingron 98290,
or call (206) 486-1351.
Anyone interested
in joining a local club or
the Saab Club of North
America, may write Club
President Tim Winker,
2416 London Road, Unit

900, Duluth, Minnesota

55812-2221, or may
telephone Tim at (218)
724-1336 for information. He is also the
Editor/Publisher of the
popular newsletter,
Nines, which has been
published in various
forms for 20 years.

Lane Change
Indicators
For Safety
Federal safety standards
require motor vehicles
to be equipped with two
front and two rear tum
signals and side markers.
Saab includes two
additional tum signals
as standard equipment
on every model it offers
in the United States.
The lane change indicators are located to the
rear of each front fenderbehind the front wheelsand function together
with the turn signals to
inform not only those to
the front and rear of the
driver's intentions, but
to also alen neighboring
motorists of an impending change of direction.

Meet Sten Helling

Sten 0 . Helling
President and
Chief Operating

Officer
SoLJb Cars USA, Inc.

ten 0. Helling, 52, accepted

his current position as
President and Chief Operating Officer of Saab Cars
USA, Inc. in July, 1990.
He joined the Orange, Connecticut-based company in 1980
as National Manager of Sales and

Marketing and was appointed Vice

President of Sales and Marketing
and an officer of the corporation
in October of th e same year. Under his direction, Saab passengercar sales grew from 14,500 units
to 47,000 within a six-year period.
He was appointed to the position
of Executive Vice President, Sales
and Marketin g, in 1987.
Recognized throughout the
industry for h is dedicated emphasis on good dealer relations, Sten
Helling has always maintained that
the success of any automotive sales

and marketing organization ultimately rests on the strength and

integrity of its retail dealers.
Immediately prior to joining
Saab, Helling was National Sales
Manager for Volvo of America,
where he held a number of sales
management positions since joining
that company in 1965. He first
began working for AB Volvo/Sweden
in 1963.
He was born and educated
in Gothenburg, Sweden. An enthusiastic golfer, Sten and his wife,
Ewa, reside in Madison, CT.
SAAB

David J. Herman Addresses

Automotive News World Congress
David J. Herman
President and Chief
Executive Officer
SoLJb Automobile AB

On January 14, 1991, David J.

Herman , President and Chief Executive Officer of Saab Au tomobile AB, T rollhattan, Sweden, addressed the 15th Au tomotive News
World Congress, held in Det roit,
Michigan. The subject of M r.
Herman's speech was twofold:
avid Herman's opening
rem arks concerned
th e creation of Saab
Autom obile AB. The
affiliation betw een Saab-Scania AB
and General M otors !Europe) AG
was the result of both parent
companies recognizing the opportunity to encourage the independence of key staff functions, while
at the same time providing the
necessary support and resources
to sustain Saab product development, improve cost structures, and
optimize the utilization of Saab
facilities.

As announced during the

formation of Saab Au tomobile AB,
among other opportunities, these
advantages take the form of greater
purchasing leverage through global sourcing, al ong with Saab's
access to new suppliers. Additionally,
the interest of reducing product
devel opme n t cycles, Saab is
reorienting its engineering capabilities away from in cremental
product improvement toward major
program development.
Mr. Herman also pointed out
that Saab's activities are led by
its own established management
team and that there are no reporting
lines between Saab and its individual shareholder companies. It
is understood that any possible gain
which could be achieved through
com bined research and development between the parent companies woul d be far outweighed by
the loss of Saab's uni que product
character if there were a chain of
command back to either partner.
Mr. Herman's second area of
concentration was the lon g-range
vision of Saab Automobile AB. He

stated that Saab is "a team of people for whom the design, production, and sales of unique and premium Swedish cars inspires pride
and commitment." Saab's Swedish
heritage is a primary source of pride
and advantage, and the individualistic demands of its premium
customers will be pursued.
Sweden has 8.5 m illion inhabitants and is h om e for two of
the world's most successful truck
producers and two car companiesall with total design responsibility centered in Sweden. No other
country of such size has been able
to duplicate this accomplishment,
and the educational tradition of
Saab engineers cen ters around the
intelligent application of advanced
technologies. Saab will con tinue
to emphasize safety, harmony with
the environment, and driving
pleasure.
Mr. Herman stated that Saab
is "now concentrating on breaking
down traditional management attitudes which don 't sufficiently
encourage the creation of an effective organization by making all
members feel a part of a team... "
SAAB

Saab continues to set a brisk development pace in 1991.

ew advances and product features incorporated in all 1991

Saabs demonstrate the
Trollhattan tradition for technological innovation which Saab has

enjoyed for more than forty years.

This heritage is evidenced in the
solid comfort and roadwortbiness
that drivers enjoy hour after hour
in Saab's ergonomically designed
cockpit. With the introduction of

its 2.3liter, 16-valve, turbocharged

engine this year, Saab continues
to redefine the balance of power
in its long line of legendary Turbos.
The new engine is standard
equipment in the 1991 Saab 9000

900S Convertible
A captivating performance u sually demands an en core, which is why Saab has turned the spotlight on
its new 1991 900S Convertible. The new model features a fully-lined, electrically-actuated soft top with
a glass rear window, which incorporates a rear window
defroster. Other standard amenities which exude a
sense of leisure and luxury in the new 900S Convertible arc leather seating surfaces, central locking, dualheated power mirrors, an 80-watt, electronically-tuned
AM/FM cassette stereo, and fog lamps. The estimated
introductory price for the Saab 900S Convertible is
S27,995.

Turbo and 9000 CD T urbo and

generat es an i m p ressive 200
horsepower (hpJ and 244 ft.-lbs
torque with a manual transmission (222 ft.-lbs with the automatic),
offering gready improved low-speed
response, mid-range muscle, an d
high-speed performance.
The 2.3-liter's compact external din1ensions ensure that it
does not encroach on valuable space
within the interior. T his is a contribu ting factor to why th e Saab

9000 is rated as a " Large Car" by

the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
Also new for 1991 is the Saab
9000, which is priced at $22,895
and represents an expansion of the
practical and versatile 9000 philosophy to a broader audience than
ever before. It is powered by th e
sam e 150 hp, 2.3-liter naturallyaspirated engine found beneath the
hood of t he Saab 9000S and 9000
CD and like every 1991 Saab, the

Saab'snew
2.3-liter turbocharged engine

The Saab 9000 Turbo and 9000 CD

Turbo now benefit from Saab's
mighty1 yet efficient, 200 hp, 2.3liter turbocharged engine. Through

the careful use of advanced production

techruques, along with
such technology as
turbocharging, intercooling, twin counterrotating balance shafts,
and Saab Direct Ignition,
the new engine provides
extremely impressive
output for its size. Saab1S
tradition of concentrating
on compact and lightweight powertrains
contributes to the 9000's legendary handling accuracy1 responsible
fuel efficiency, and renowned interior space utilization.

9000 includes anti-lock brakes and

a driver's side airbag as standard
equipment.
A good portion of innovative
Saab technology has been infused
in the 1991 900 Series as well.
Better performance and improved
passing power is provided in the
900 and 900$ by a new 2.1-litcr
engine which creates 140 hp and
133ft.-lbs torque, up from 128 hp
and 128 ft.-lbs respectively.
A convertible version of the

9000 CD Turbo
Saab's luxury leader is now equipped
with the new high-performing and
fuel -efficient 200 hp 2.3-litcr turbocharged engine. In addition/ the
9000 CD Turbo offers greater comfort and refinement with its Burled
English Walnut instrument panel,
gearshift surround and console
cover, along with dual power seats
with three-channel memory. An
automatic transmission and compact
diSC player are also standard
equipment. 1991 9000 CD Turbos arc easily identified by theu
standard rear decor panel which
matches the taillight treatment,
and restyled alloy wheels are also
included.
1

900 Turbo Convertible

Special Edition
Saab's n ew Special Edition Convertible sports handsome 3-spoke light alloy wheels, high-performing 195/
60 VR 15 tires, and aggressive lower body fairings,
which give the already-distinctive Saab 900 Turbo
Convertible a bold new look while also increasing its
aerodynamic efficiency. Saab's new Special Edition
Convertible also features dual power seats with luxurious
leather seating surfaces and a leather-wrapped steering
wheel. It is powered by Saab's energetic and efficient
160-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.

popular 900S model has also joined the Saab family for 1991, for
those enthusiasts whose lifestyles
do not need the extra power of
turbocharging, and whose budgets
require that they stay below the
recently-announced $30,000 luxury
tax range.
In addition to added product
content and refinements in 1991,
all new Saab owners can also benefit
from the security of a 6-year/80,000
mile limited warranty, with bumper-

to-bumper coverage for 3 years/

40,000 miles, and major system
coverage for the duration of the
warranty period. Owners of 1991
Saabs are also automatically enrolled in Saab's Roadside Assistance Program, which includes such
roadside services as emergency road
repair and towing, emergency lockout assistance, and tire service24 hours a day-seven days a week.
1bis convenient Saab service support
program includes trip interruption

protection, and provides reimbursement for unanticipated lodging, meal, and car rental expenses.
Ambulance reimbursement is
provided for the owner or a family member if an ambulance is required following an accident.
The best way to experience
all the new advances is to get behind the wheel of a 1991 Saab.
Visit any of Saab's 344 U.S. dealers, who can explain in detail all
of the product improvements.
SAAB

Saab 9000 Turbo

Saab's pinnacle of performance for
1991 is the Saab 9000 Turbo, which
is fitted with the Swedish
automaker's powerful and cleanburning 2.3-liter, turbocharged
engine. Generating 200 hp and up
to 244-ft-lbs torque, the new engine offers improved low-speed
response, mid-range muscle, and
high-speed performance, making
the 9000 Turbo the most aggressive entry ever offered by Saab.
The Saab 9000 Turbo also benefits
from a performance-tuned sport
chassis which includes special 3spoke, alloy wheels and Z-rated,
high speed, 16" tires.

9000

900/900S

900Turbo

The newest addition to the Saab

family for 1991 is the 9000. With
its price tag below $23,000, the
Saab 9000 not only represents
Saab's latest expression of advanced
engineering technology, but also
the import market's lowest priced
sedan to be so equipped. Powered
by the same 150 hp, 2.3-liter
naturally-aspirated engine found
beneath the hood of the Saab 90005
and 9000 CD, the 9000 is a fivedoor hatchback whkh offers the
traditional Saab values of safety,
performance, and versatility at the
entry-level end of the Saab 9000
range.

The entry and middle-level models of the Saab 900 series, the 900,
and 9005, benefit from a new 140
hp, 2.1-litcr naturally-aspirated
engine which offer~ better performance and improved passing power.
In addition to a driver's-side air
bag and anti-lock brakes as standard
equipment, upgrades for 1991 include a headlight wiper/washer
system, and newly designed front
seats offering added comfort and
luxury. According to the recently
released report by the Highway
Loss Data Institute IHLDI), The
Saab 900 4-door sedan demonstrated
the lowest overall injury experience of any car in its size category. For the second consecutive
year, the Saab 900-with its suggested list price of $18,295-is the
lowest priced import sold in America
\vith an air bag and anti-lock brakes
as standard equipment.

With its 160 hp, 2.0-liter, 16-valve

turbocharged engine, the Saab 900
Turbo offers aggressive perfonnancc
and a fun-to-drive persona, combined with Saab's traditional attentiOn to safety and versatility.
The Saab 900 Turbo features safetycage construction and a practical
fold-down rear scat, and is equipped
with a driver's-side air bag and
anti-lock brakes as standard
equipment. New for 1991 is a
headlight wiper/washer system,
smoother manual gearshifting,
and upgraded front seats which
offer a wtder range of adjustment
and greater comfort.

900Turbo
Convertible

Combining the pleasure of top-down performance with Saab

integrity and reliability, the 900 Turbo Convertible was engineered from inception for open-air enjoyment. The fully-lined,
power-actuated convertible top is snug fitting, to insulate
against weather and noise, and the glass rear window is electrically-heated. Powered by Saab's 160 hp, 2.0-liter, 16-valved
turbocharged engine, new standard features for 1991 include
dual power seats, leather-padded door armrests, an improved
theft alarm system, increased luggage-carrying capacity, and a
headlight wiper/washer system.

13

Don't ''Stick Your Neck Out'' bJ

Choosing the Wrong Head Restraint
l
Jr

hiplash injuries are

a frequent outcome
of u~ban automobile

the whiplash injury.ln the handbook,

Saab is the only automaker cited
for having excellent head restraint
aCCI properties to reduce the like lidents, which auto~~======-,~---J
motive experts say
hood of whiplash .
usually involve a
Saab's adjustable
high seat backs are
rear-end collision at
low speed. A cpraised becau se
they provide good
cording to the latest statistics, there
protection while
are more than
not restricting rear
4,000,000 rear-end
vision. For 1991,
collisions a year in
every Saab model
the United States;
features head remore than one third
straints as st andard equipment at
of all automobile
accidents. As a reall outboard seatsult, roughly five
ing positions.
million doctor visSaab is also
mentioned as one
its arc made yearly
of the few ca r
for diagnosis and
treatment of neck
companies tha t
pain.
reminds customWhile not a
ers in its owner's
medical
term,
manuals that the
"whiplash" refers
he ad r estra in t
to the neck injury
should be adjusted
caused by a sudden
to bolster the back
jerking backward
of the head, not
and forward of the
the neck, in order
to offer effective
head during an automobile accident.
protection against
Crash test simulations have demonstrated that Saab head restraintsThe medical term
whiplash injuries.
when adjusted properly-have excellent energy-absorbing properties.
for the resulting
Saab also recom For the best possible result, the head restraint should be set level
trauma is "cervical
m
ends that a seat
with the back of the head.
sprain," which enback which is
slightly reclined,
tails trauma to a
Injury Prevention Through
instead of positioned upright, w ill
joint plus injury to ligaments.
Design Attention
Saab engineers realize that
improve the occupant's chances of
whiplash injuries have become a
avoiding a neck injury in a rear
Saab's careful attention to
common accident hazard and have
collision .
designing safety systems which
thus expended substantial engiLong before head restraints
optimize passengers' well-being is
neering resources making sure Saab
became mandatory in 1969, Saab
recognized in the recently-pu blishscats are orthopedically sound and
began utilizing head supports in
ed The Whiplash Handbook *- the
that passengers remain comfort1958 in its high-performance GT
first book of its kind dedicated to
able and safe.
improving the understanding of
750 model. The Swedish automaker
/

14

"Saab engineers realize that whiplash in juries have

become a common accident hazard and have thus
expended substantial engineering resources
making sure Saab seats are orthopedically sound
and that passengers remain comfortable and safe."

Owner Advice
Although insurance claim studies show that neck injuries
have largely decreased since automotive head restraints have
been legislated, according to The Whiplash Handbook,
insurance researchers remain disappointed that the decrease
in neck inJuries is not greater. Saab offers the following advice
to consumers not wanting to stick their necks out by choosing
the wrong head restraint, or still worse, misusing one:

Tbe fron t seat bead res traint consists

of foam material molded around a
resilient backing plate.

realized that in a rear-end collision, the seat m ust effectively arrest the backward movement of
the occupant's body and head. T he
backward tilt of the head is particularly critical, since the neck
vert ebrae could sustain serious
injuries if the backward tilt were
to exceed 120 degrees.
Today, Saab's head restraints
consist of foam material, molded
around a resilient backing plate,
which arrest the neck an d minimize the risk of injury to the neck
vcn ebrae in the event of a collision.
The height of Saab's front head
restraints can be adjusted in several settings, which span about two
inches. Saab seats are also anatomically correct and have a sufficiently wide range of settings to
ensure that they will be practical
and comfortable. T o further ensure driver comfon, Saab front seats
are additionally equipped with
electric heating clem ents as standard equipment.

Automotive head restraints should be

considered specifically for that purpose and
not used as head rests.
Adjust the head restraint so that it reaches
the back of your head, not just your neck.
And familiarize yourself with positioning
and utilizing side- and rear-view mirrors for
optimum rearward visibility.
Recline the front seats slightly instead
of positioning them upright. This will
improve the chances of avoiding a neck
injury in a rear collision.
Shoulder-harnesses and lap belts can
prevent many injuries and should be worn
by all passengers at all times, even in cars
equipped with an air bag. However, they
do not prevent whiplash injuries, but serve
the all-important role of preventing the
occupants from being thrown about or
out of the vehicle.
*The Whiplash Handbook, 1989, was written by Monique B. Harriton with a
Foreword by Ruth Jack son, M.D., F.A .C.S., and was published by Charles C
Thomas, 2600 South First Street, Springfield, lllinois.

15

Designing Safe Cars is

More Than Just Child's Play

Saab safety door locks are an important way in which Saab design helps to secure your child's safety.

arents know all too well

how inquisitive children
can be and how their natural curiosity sometimes
leads them into trouble. This is
the case with automotive mishaps,
which claim more lives than
childhood diseases or any other
type of accident prevalent among
children.
Realizing the many mishaps
that can occur in automobiles, Saab
engineers incorporate numerous
standard safety features into Saab
9000 and 900 passenger cars to
help protect children from harm.
Saab safety door locks are an
important way in which Saab design helps to secure your child's
safety. In all9000 models and 900
4-door sedans, Saab rear doors are
fitted with child safety locks to
prevent children from madvertently
opening them from the inside. In
addition, all Saab 9000's and 900

4-door sedans equipped with electrically-operated windows include

a rear window child lock switch
located on the front center console to override the electronic control of the rear windows, thereby
making sure children cannot inadvertently open them.
With occupant safety in mind
for children and adults alike, Saab
engineers have generously placed
impact-absorbing padding throughout every Saab interior-including
front seat backs, door panels,
headliner, instrument panel,-and
every 1991 Saab now includes rear
head restraints as standard equipment. Noticeably absent in Saab
cars are rough edges and comers
on which children may be apt to
hurt themselves. Saab engineers
have chosen to create an interior
environment comprised of smooth,
rounded surfaces. Saab door handles
are flat and recessed to avoid

tempting shapes, or most importantly, to obviate the hard, protruding edges of conventional door
handles that can be a danger to
children. In emergency situations,
such attention to detail not only
safeguards children but adults as
well.
Soft storage pockets in the
front-seat backrests offer a convenient place for children's comic
or coloring books or small toys
without cluttering the passenger
space. All Saab doors also include
practical and abundant storage
pockets which can accommodate
a child's necessities on any trip.
Saab 9000 models have added storage space in their roomy center
consoles; the lid of which can be
folded back to serve rear passengers as a small tray and beverage
holder, devoid of rough edges. The
900 includes cup-holder provisions
on the inside of the glovebox door.

16

"Saab engineers incorporate numerous standard

safety features into Saab 9000 and 900 passenger
cars to help protect children from harm."

Further standard amenities on

the Saab 9000 which can add to a
child's comfort and enjoyment include rear-seat reading lamps, which
are ideal for children who want to
read or draw at night, and a thickly
padded fold-down armrest which
not only provides improved rear seat
comfort, but has been known to
serve as a divider for sibling rivals,
or can even be enjoyed as a small
game table. Both Saab 9000's and
900's include a console-mounted
rear ashtray to ensure that candy
wrappers and other litter are disposed of properly.
The generous size and wide
opening angles of all doors facilitate helping children in and out
of Saab cars. Adults needing to
position toddlers in car seats will
appreciate Saab's extra roominess
and easy accessibility. In addition,
the low lift-height and flat floor
of Saab cargo areas make loading
and safely securing strollers, playpens, toys, or other children's necessities (plus luggage), a simple
task while not encroaching on
valuable passenger space, and the
Saab 9000 is the only car in its
class to be rated as a "Large Car"
by EPA The EPA has also concluded
that the Saab 9000 offers the best
fuel economy of any model in the
"Large Car" category.
All Saab 900 hatchbacks and
sedans offer the practicality of a
fold-down rear seat, while Saab
9000 hatchbacks feature a folding
60/40 split rear seat for increased
family-use versatility. Saab 9000
and 900 hatchback models, with
their rear seats folded down, boast
56.5 cubic feet of cargo space.
Further, all 1991 Saab cars
are equipped with three-point safety

The wide opening angles and size of

Saab doors make it extremely easy for
occupants to get in and out of Saab
cors. In addition, all side doors are
fitted with courtesy lights in 9000
models. Whenever a door is open, the
ground below it is illuminated; a red
warning light is visible to the rear at
the same time.

In all 9000 models and 900 4-door

sedans, Saab rear doors are fitted

with child safety locks to prevent
children from inadvertantly opening
them from the inside.

In Saab 900 hatchback models, the back seat can be folded down quickly and
simply to convert the ordinary luggage compartment into a cavernous, easily
accessible cargo bay having a completely flat floor.

belts at all outboard seating positions as standard equipment. The

Swedish automaker recognizes that
when properly worn, seat belts reduce the risk of serious occupant
injury, and therefore designs its seatbelt systems to provide a high degree of comfort and convenience.

In addition, Saab recommends

that infants and small children
be protected in the event of collision or a sudden stop with a
suitable safety seat, and includes
details for the proper use of such
seats in its 9000 and 900 Owner's
Manuals.
SAAB

17

Enhance Your
Child's Security
and Add to Your
Convenience.

All Saab dealers market parts

and accessories to enhance your
child's security and add to your
convenience and recreational
pleasure. These items include a
Red Cross-approved First Aid
Kit, fire extinguisher, cargo and

floor mats to protect your

trunk from dirt and other road
debris and protect your car's
interior from spills, and cargo
netting and storage boxes to
safely secure other necessities
for your child.

First Aid Kit

Fire Extinguisher

Warning Triangle

Contains scissors1 bandages, topical

ointments and otner first aid items
Approved by the American Red Cross
02 79117

Uses smothering Halon gas that

leaves no residue and will not
damage electrical components
Mounting bracket included
9000 All, 900 All
02 02 515

Signals oncoming cars that yours is

disabled
Reflective material
Collapsible/Storage case included
(Set of 3)
02 11 565

Storage Box
Keeps small, loose items contained
Attaches easily with velcro to the
side of the luggage compartment
9000 5 dr 8602 74 233
9000 4 dr 8902 43 915
900 3 dr 8102 74 225
900 2/4 dr Sedans
02 74 217

Leather Protector
Conditions leather upholstery
Helps keep leather clean and supple
02 02 523

Cargo Net

Waste Basket

Steel mesh design keeps cargo and

pets in place
Can be easily folded down or
removed when not in use
9000 5 dr 86(mounts behind rear seats) 02 43 840
900 3 dr 81(mounts in rear headrest brackets)
02 43 493
Installation kit for 900 models without
rear head restraints
02 43 501

Fits underneath the front seat

Concealed but easy to reach
Easy to remove for emptying
Fits 900's prior to 1990
(except with passive belts) 02 45 183

Bulk Luggage Carrier

Horizontal Cargo Net

Cargo Mat

Elastic net for installation to the

floor of luggage compartment
Fastens to the luggage compartment
tie-down rings
9000 5 dr 8602 44 343

Protects the cargo area carpet

Made of black rubber for durability
and easy cleaning
9000 4 dr 8902 43 428
02 72 179
9000 5 dr 86900 3 dr 8102 11 128

Vertical Cargo Net

Elastic net for installation tO the
right trunk wall
Holds shopping bags and other
lightweight items in place
Easy to attach and remove
9000 5dr 8602 44 335

Attaches easily to basic roof rack for

convenient transport of large, bulky
items
02 81 204
9000 AU, 900 AU Sedans

Bike Holder

Bike Holder

Securely grips bicycle by seat and

handlebars
Allows for easy adjustment for bikes
of different types and sizes
9000 All, 900 All Sedans
02 81196

Secures bicycle in upright position

Adjustable to accommodate a variety
of types and sizes
Use with basic rack
900 All Sedans
02 74 126

900
9000

Basic Roof Rack

02 81 709
02 72195

18

Breathing Easier
in the Decade of the
Environment

ver since the

first Saab
9000's rolled
off the Trollhattan, Sweden assembly line in 1985,
all 9000 models have
been fitted with an
envi ronm enta ll yconscious Saab engineering innovation- a
ventilation air filter
that traps pollen, dust,
soot, and other particles before external
air is allowed into the
interior of the car. Prior
to that, the innovation
was first introduced in
all 1979 Saab 900's
without air conditioning. This Saab design
feature is one of many
examples which demonstrates the Swedish automaker's envirorunental concern, and

Saab's ventilation
air filter especially
helps those who are
pollen-allergic or
who suffer from
other respiratory
ailments.

an industry leader in
the application of
three-way catalytic
convertor technology,
which has been
proven to be the most
effective way to
combat harmful exhaust emissions.
In 1991 as well,
all 344 U.S. Saab
dealers will market
a removable trash
receptacle for early
Saab 900 models,
which secures beneath the driver's seat
and will discourage
against littering, since
it allows for proper
trash disposal.
In an added effort to conserve natural resources, Saab
recently began torecycle office stationary and other paper
The ventilation air filter in the Saab 9000 arrests particles as small
further illustrates Saab's
used
by its 416 U.S.
as 4 microns {0.004) mm. The dirty filter above sh ows the
employees.
desire to offer relief
The comaccumulated dust, soot, and pollen particles that are effectively
to the many who suffer
pany recycles aptrapped by the interior air filter, along with asphalt fumes, foundry
and cement dust, and petroleum mist.
from allergies or other
proximately 40 tons
respiratory ailments.
of paper per year.
Additionally, all Saab press releases
It is befitting for Saab to kick
Other environmentallyoff the internationally-observed
conscious developments that Saab
are now produced on recycled paper to incite media representatives
"Decade of the Environment," by
will make in 1991 include approved
recycling techniques for its curequipping all 1991 9000 passento promote energy conservation
ger cars with the ventilation air
rent R-12 air conditioning fluid,
and/ or recycling techniques. As a
filter. The filter arrests particles
commonly referred to as freon.
further effort, Saab's national
as small as 4 microns (0.004 mm).
Recycling of this substance will
headquarters recently took the advice
of Connecticut's United IllumiIn addition to trapping pollen, the
reduce the worldwide production
ventilation air filter in 1991 Saab
of chlorofluorocarbons (CFC).
nating (Ul) company and replaced
9000's also blocks visible dust,
CFC's have been found to have a
roughly 1,000 light fixtures
water droplets, and sand from endetrimental effect on the earth's
throughout its facilities with entering the car. It is effective in
ergy-efficient, reflective ballasts,
ozone layer.
reducing the company's lighting
Saab also pioneered the refiltering petroleum mist, foundry
and cement dust, asphalt fumes,
load by one third.
moval of asbestos from brake pads
and other road debris.
and clutch face surfaces and was

19

Regulate Your Driving Habits

To Save Fuel
There's no reason to spend
more money on gasoline than you
have to, despite the current climb
in fuel prices nationwide. According
to Saab engineers, there are proven
ways to put a chunk of your gasoline dollars back in your pocket.
All you need is a willingness
to observe-and perhaps changeyour routine driving habits and
pay close attention to your car's
shift indicator light, which in the
case of Saab, is standard equipment on all 1991 Saab 9000 and
900 models with man ual transmissions.
Tests conducted by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) and Saab comparing 10 Saabs
with shift lights and 10 identical
Saabs without, confirm there is
savings to be gained. The average
improvement during the official
EPA City driving cycle was more

than nine percent.

The shift indicator system
installed on all Saab 9000 and 900
models with manual transmissions
monitors signals from five points
on the engine and transmission.
The most important data is engine speed and load and the position of the accelerator pedal. The
system includes an indicator lamp
which is located on the instrument panel and signals the driver
to "shift up."
When the engine speed is high
compared to the position of the
accelerator pedal, the shift indicator lamp signals that you can
get the same performance from
less fuel by shifting upward to the
next higher gear. After using the
light for a period of time, drivers
soon learn to shift instinctively
at this optimum point.
Shifting with the indicator

light does not entail a loss of power,

and it demonstrates how you can
save fuel by merely changing your
shifting habits even if your car
does not have a shift indicator
light. Shift into a higher gear sooner
than you normally would and use
fifth gear as much as possible to
stretch your fuel, and your dollars.
Further fuel saving may be
gained by maintaining your car
according to the manufacturer's
prescribed service schedule.
Maintenance and tune up details
can be found in the vehicle owner's
manual, which includes other
important information which can
help maximize mileage such as
correct tire pressures, recommended lubricants, and car care tips. A
properly maintained vehicle will
not only offer better fuel economy,
but lower exhaust emissions as
well.

Seven Ways to Maximum Fuel Economy

1 Maintain proper tire inflation pressure (see your
Owner's Manual or tire
information label).
2 Don't let the engine warm
up by idling. Rather, drive
off as soon as possible.
3 Drive smoothly and conservatively. Follow your upshift
light if your manual transmission -equipped Saab has
one and observe the posted
speed limit.
4 Use a well-known brand of
detergent gasoline. Regular
grade is fine unless your SPG
or accessory "Tuning Kit"-

equipped Turbo requires

higher octane, premium fuel.
5 Keep your car clean, includ ing the front of the radiator
which can collect bugs,
leaves, or other road debris.
6 Leave your ski rack at home
when you are not using it.
And eliminate unnecessary
weight by removing from
your trunk anything that
you don't need.
7 Follow your vehicle's prescribed maintenance schedule, because dirty filters and
contaminated oil reduce
efficiency.

20

Thanks to the prestige of the Barber Saab Pro Series and its attendant media coverage, 1990 champion Rob Wilson {green
#19) signed a contract with a frontline Indy Lights team for 1991. Success there will likely result in a move to the crown of
American motorsports-the CART PPG Indycar Series. (photo by Sidell Tilghman)

he 1990 Barber Saab Pro

Series was a roaring success on circuits from
Tampa to Topeka, and
West Palm Beach to Portland.
Completing its fifth season, the
series played to impressive audiences, had its largest starting
fields ever, and received excellent
television coverage via ESPN.
London-based New Zealander Rob
Wilson clinched the championship
and the $100,000 Career Enhancement Award by winning six of
the 12 races. He also set a record
for number of pole positions won
in a season with seven.

Right from the start, Wilson

made it clear that he was the man
to beat. He won the opener in
Miami, finished third in the next
race at Road Atlanta, then won
the next four races in a row to
build a huge points cushion heading
into the second half of the season.
The first contender to try to
chip away at Wilson's lead was
John Bigham of California. Dubbed
the Loan Arranger (Bigham had
to borrow the money from his
mother for the race), he took the
pole and the win at Watkins Glen
to become the first American to
drive into a 1990 Barber Saab vic-

tory circle. Englishman Johnny

Robinson was next to give Wilson
a go, winning his second race of
the year (Road Atlanta was his
first) in the Red Lion (Hotels)
Challenge at Sears Point. 'fllen Steve
Cameron, another native New
Zealander, took his turn in the
spotlight with a pole-to-podium
win at Portland.
But it was all for naught. By
rotmd lO at Road America in August, all Wilson had to do was
finish no worse than fifth to snag
the title and the $100,000 Career
Award- which is exactly what he
did. Almost forgotten in the hoopla

21

Barber S,.AB
1991 ====Pro
Series

Date

Event

Television
Coverage

March3

South Florida Fairground

West Palm Beach, Florida

ESPN

April7

Miami Street Circuit

Miami, Florida

ESPN

April 28

Road Atlanta Race Circuit

Atlanta, Georgia

TBA

May 27

Lime Rock Park

Lime Rock, Connecticut

ESPN

June2

Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

Lexington, Ohio

ESPN

June 16

New Orleans Street Circuit

New Orleans, Louisiana

ESPN

June30

Watkins Glen International

Watkins Glen, New York

ESPN

July 21

Laguna Seca Raceway

Monterey, California

ESPN

July28

Portland International Raceway

Portland, Oregon

ESPN

August25

Road America Racetrack

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

TBA

September 22

Road America Racetrack

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

ESPN

October 13

Del Mar Fairgrounds Circuit

Del Mai, California

ESPN

Note: This schedule is tentative. All listed dates are with IMSA GTP.

was John Tanner of Virginia. He

drove brilliantly in the rain to his
first victory and pretty much laid
claim to the unofficial-but-noteworthy title of the Highest Ranked
American Driver for the year.
Though the championship
was already decided, the next race
at Tampa was exciting nevertheless. It not only rained again, and
Robinson won his third race to
secure championship runner-up
honors (and set the record for Win
from the Lowest Grid Position7th), but Wilson finished ninth on
the tricycle. Okay, not a real trike,
but boy, did he hear the cheers
after he finished-no, raced-the last
four laps on three wheels. Wilson
had folded his left front wheel over

onto his race car's nose cone, thanks

to a late-race collision with a loose
wheel from a different late-race
crashee. It was a graphic example
of the skill Wilson had shown

throughout the season.

And the last race of the year
at Del Mar? Oh, just the usualWilson led flag-to-flag from the
pole. No doubt, Wilson headed for
the big time.
A pleasant surprise this year
was the debut of Robert Arnren
of Jarna, Sweden. The young Swedish
Formula 3 driver, along with his
friend Tony Lelvo of Tamrnisaari,
Finland, entered the last two races
of the year and they both made
quite an impression: Arnren finished
in second place in each race, and
Lelvo had a four and a lOth. They,
like Robinson, look to be strong
contenders for the championship
in 1991.
Next year the series promises to be even more in the spotlight as the premier international
open-wheel training series. Stepped-up overseas press coverage and
an increasing number of foreign
drivers who are making a name
for themselves here in the States
are giving the series credibility
unmatched by other single-spec
series. Wilson, the first foreignborn champion in the five-year
history of Barber Saab racing, will
make a perfect series ambassador.
The race-prepared but internally-unmodified stock Saab turbocharged engines performed
flawlessly once again, enabling the
Barber Saab program to do what
no other series does-provide close
and exciting racing but remain tremendously affordable for up-andcoming professional road racers.

1990 Champion Rob Wilson clinched the series title here at Road America.

SAAB

22

1====r - - - --

Vintage Views is a new Saab Soundings feature dedicated to the history,

preservation, and enjoyment of early Saab automobiles and their
derivatives. Through this column, we will share with you the
tradition and heritage that has come to embody Saab's spirit today.

Vintage Views
The
Headquarters
Collection - Part I
In the Summer of 1946, Saab wheels
went into motion when an unassuming, but un ique prototype
emerged from a secret Swedish
workshop. That pilot verucle still
exists ill the Saab Car Museum
in Trollhattan, Sweden, along with
a host of other legendary and rustoric Saabs.
Although Saab is considered
to have set a brisk development
pace in the auto industry, it has
remailled loyal to its beginning
and its logical design philosophy.
For this reason, The Saab Car
Museum has grown illto the impressive collection that it is today.
Likewise, in the United States,
"!here the first Saabs appeared
officially in 1956, Saab Cars USA,
Inc. has carefully maintained its
own interest in Saab rustory by
assembling its Headquarters Collection. A look at the villtage vehicles at the headquarters follows:

When Mr. Boberg informed

Saab Cars Chairman Bob Sinclair
of its availability, Mr. Sillclair jumped at the opportunity to acquire
it for display at major American
auto shows and Saab dealership
openings. Unbeknownst to everyone
ill Orange, the formation of the
Headquaners Collection had begun.
T he 1950 Saab was soon
aboard srup with a large inventory
of new 900's, bound for Saab
dealerships throughout th e
Northeast, and to say that the 92
stood out from the crowd when
it arrived at the Providence, Rhode
Island port would be an understatement. The longshoremen
didn't know what to make of it,
let alone how to start it.
Fortunately, Saab's Port
Manager, Hakan Svantesson, gamed valuable two-stroke experience
back home in Sweden, so he simply
went down in the cargo hold, fired
the car up, and promptly drove it

off the srup. Sillce that day, the

92 has proved to be a capable and
reliable performer.
According to the original sales
brochure, the Saab 92 "is characterized by the sweeping streamlined shape, and the corniortable
and elegant interior is astonishingly roomy for a car of this size."
The brochure also explaills that
the 92 offers "a considerable factor of safety" due to "the selfsupporting, solid welded body."
Written some forty years ago, that
description could just as easily be
applied to the 1991 range of 9000
and 900 models, demonstrating that
Saab's logical engineering approach
has remained consi!\tent for four
decades.
The Saab 92 is powered by a
25 horsepower, two-cylinder engine displacing 764cc. Following
in the footsteps of Henry Ford,
the original 92 could be had in
any color an owner desired, except

1950
Saab 92 de Luxe
The first historic verucle acquired
by Saab Cars USA, Inc., and the
cornerstone of the Headquarters
Collection, is the 1950 Saab 92
de Luxe, chassis number 01837.
This example of Saab's first production model was originally sold
on April 11, 1951 to Torsten Ek.
in Jonkoping, Sweden, and eventually made its way to Kjell Boberg
of Molnlycke, Sweden, just outside
of Gothenburg.

The 92, Saab's first production model, is powered by a 25 horsepower, twocylinder, two-strok e engine displacing 764cc. The Headqua.r ters car, similar to
the Saab 92 pictured, is a 1950 de Luxe and was the first vintage vehicle to join
the Saab Cars USA, Inc. Collection.

23
Saab Cars USA's Technicol
Training Manager, John Moss
(left), along with Sales Training
Manager, Arsey Miller (seated)
and the Son ett Super Sportnumber 2 of six originals
produced by 1956. Only five
examples exist today. John and
Arsey both assist in maintaining
the Headquarters Collection.

in Saab's case, the palette was limited to green. The Headquarters

92 received some cosmetic attention in Sweden, and was reupholstered using materials which
were supplied through the Saab
engineering department in
Trollhattan.
The de Luxe designation, by
the way, signifies that the car was
fitted with a chrome grille, chrome
hubcaps, front and rear bumpers,
aod two windshield wipers. Essentially all 92s enjoyed the advantage of this equipment.
The 92's most recent public
appearance was at the annual Saab
Club Convention in Sturbridge,
Massachusetts where it was not
only displayed, but driven by a
few club members. Needless to
say, it once again made quite a
hit.

1956 Saab Sonett

Super Sport
On page 118 of Bjorn-Eric Lindh's
definitive Saab reference, The First
4o Years of Saab Cars (available
through Saab dealers, part number
02 78 648), there is a set of period
photographs which shows a magnificent red Sonett Super Sport.
That vehicle now resides in Orange, Connecticut, and is the "crown
jewel" of the Saab Cars USA, Inc.
Headquarters Collection.
During the 1950's, standard

Saab sedans proved quite successful in competition in and around

Sweden. It was soon realized,
however, that if Saab was going
to participate in international events
throughout Europe, something
more would be needed. That
"something" took the form of the
Sonett Super Sport, unveiled at the
1956 Stockholm Motor Show.
The Sonett Super Sport, often referred to today as Sonett I
or the Sonett prototype, is a fiberglass-bodied, two seater built
on a semi-monocoque chassis. It
utilized various standard Saab 93
components, and to improve weight
distribution, the complete powertrain was turned around, resulting
in the three-speed gearbox being
mounted ahead of the engine. A
high-performance version of the
three-cylinder, two-stroke Saab 93
engine was fitted, producing 57.5
horsepower.
The Sonett was campaigned
in Swedish racing competition during 1957, and participated in various demonstration events. Unfortunately, when the competition
rules for the 1958 season were
announced, provisions to allow
modified production models with
racing engines were included, thereby nullifying the very concept of
the Sonett Super Sport. The car,
therefore, never entered seriesproduction.
There were only six Saab
Sonett Super Sports produced, and

the example in the Headquarters

Collection is car number 2. Since
it left Trollhattan, Sonett number
2 spent most of its life in Sweden's
private Philipsons Museum. Gunnar
Philipson has been referred to as
the "king of Swedish car distributors," and in addition to a very
early and significant involvement
with Saab, his firm has imported
to Sweden everything from DKW
to Mercedes.
It was famed Saab rally great
Erik Carlsson who got wind of the
fact that Philipsons was interested
in parting with their Sonett Super
Sport, and knowing that a Saab
92 had recently made its way
to America for display purposes,
he immediately contacted Bob
Sinclair. A deal was struck, and
Sonett Super Sport number 2 would
soon be loaded into a sealed shipping container, destined for Orange,
Connecticut.
Before leaving Sweden, the
Sonett was treated to a full cosmetic and mechanical refreshening in Saab's Trollhattan Design
Studio, under the direction of Chief
Stylist Bjorn Envall. It arrived in
New York on July 22, 1985 and
has since been the star of many
club events and Saab expositions.
With its big, twin-choke carburetor and performance-tuned
engine, t he Sonett Super Sport is
not quite as docile as the 92 de
Luxe, but on the other hand, in
the words of Sports Cars Illustrated
(Nov. 1956), the Sonett Super Sport
is certainly "light and quick." The
Sonett designation, by the way,
was derived from the Swedish term
"sa naat," which roughly translated means "how nice" or "how
neat." Within Saab, the Sonett Super
Sport was also known by its internal project code: Saab 94.
To be continued ...

SAAB

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