The Saab 900, particularly the first generation (900 I) produced from 1978 to 1987, represents a pivotal moment in the Swedish automaker’s history. Introduced as a replacement for the long-running Saab 96, the 900 aimed to modernize the brand while retaining its reputation for safety, innovation, and quirky design. The 2.0 i 16V Turbo variant, produced from 1985 to 1986, was a performance-oriented version of the 900, offering a significant power upgrade through the addition of a turbocharger and a 16-valve cylinder head. This model cemented the 900’s appeal to enthusiasts seeking a practical yet engaging driving experience. While never a high-volume seller in the United States, the Saab 900 cultivated a loyal following among those who appreciated its unique character and engineering.
Saab 900 I 2.0 i 16V Turbo: A Detailed Overview
The Saab 900 I 2.0 i 16V Turbo occupied a unique space in the European automotive market. It wasn’t a direct competitor to mainstream family sedans, but rather appealed to buyers who desired a vehicle that stood out from the crowd. Its blend of practicality, performance, and distinctive styling set it apart. In the US market, where it was available, it competed with vehicles like the Volvo 240 and BMW 3 Series, offering a different, more unconventional alternative.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 900 I 2.0 i 16V Turbo is its 1985 cc (121.13 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, designated the B202, featured multi-port fuel injection and, crucially, a turbocharger and a 16-valve cylinder head. This combination allowed it to produce 160 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 255 Nm (188.08 lb-ft) of torque at 2500 rpm. The power-to-weight ratio of 8.2 kg/Hp (121.7 Hp/tonne) contributed to its spirited performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took 9.6 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph was achieved in a calculated 9.1 seconds. The car boasted a maximum speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). Fuel economy, while not a priority for performance models of the era, was rated at 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) combined, with 12.2 l/100 km (19.3 US mpg) in urban settings and 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) on the open road.
Design & Features
The Saab 900 I was instantly recognizable thanks to its distinctive wedge-shaped silhouette and aerodynamic design. The body style is a four-door sedan, offering seating for five passengers. The design prioritized both form and function, with a focus on visibility and safety. The interior was known for its ergonomic design, featuring supportive seats and a driver-focused layout. While not lavishly equipped by modern standards, the 900 I 2.0 i 16V Turbo included features such as hydraulic power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, and disc brakes on the rear axle. A significant safety feature for its time was the inclusion of an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), enhancing braking performance and stability. The trunk offered a generous amount of space, ranging from 600 liters (21.19 cubic feet) with the rear seats up to 1600 liters (56.5 cubic feet) with them folded down. The car’s robust construction and focus on occupant protection were hallmarks of Saab’s engineering philosophy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Saab |
| Model | 900 |
| Generation | 900 I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 i 16V Turbo (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1985 |
| End of production | 1986 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.2 l/100 km (19.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 2500 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B202 |
| Engine displacement | 1985 cm3 (121.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1315 kg (2899.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 600 l (21.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1600 l (56.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4680 mm (184.25 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2515 mm (99.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Rear track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/69 VR15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Saab 900 I 2.0 i 16V Turbo remains a fondly remembered vehicle, representing a high point in Saab’s engineering and design prowess. Its combination of performance, practicality, and distinctive character continues to attract enthusiasts today, ensuring its place in automotive history.
