Saab 900

With approximately 860,000 units produced in its first generation, known as the Classic, the Saab 900 holds a place of honor among iconic cars, a distinction reserved for only a few. Its design, an evolution of the previous Saab 99 from which it inherits the chassis and engines, is so distinctive that it has become synonymous with the brand. The first-generation Saab 900 is the quintessential Saab, a blend of style, technology, and class admired worldwide. It measures 4.74 meters in length and boasts a large trunk of at least 400 liters.

Introduced in May 1978, the Saab 900 was marketed at the end of the year in 3- and 5-door hatchback versions, while the 4-door sedan version followed a year later. The legendary convertible, which would become an emblem of the 1980s, arrived only in 1986. The Saab 900 retained some of the 99’s unique technical features, such as the longitudinally mounted and inclined engine with the gearbox positioned directly underneath, and the double wishbone front suspension, contributing to its renowned handling. It also featured front-wheel drive.

Saab’s aeronautical heritage led to the adoption of innovative and unconventional solutions. These included the key located on the central tunnel, which could only be removed with the reverse gear engaged to prevent the car from being left in neutral, and the front-hinged hood that slid forward to facilitate engine access for repairs or maintenance. The dashboard reflected aeronautical principles, with instruments arranged according to importance and frequency of use, and the radio positioned high on the console to minimize driver distraction.

The Saab 900 remains a testament to innovative engineering and design, leaving an indelible mark on the global automotive landscape.