Saab 9000
The Saab 9000 is a large executive car from the renowned Swedish manufacturer that has all the characteristics the company is famous for. Reliable, strongly built, safe and conservatively stylish, it’s an auto that will last and is great value as a result. Cheap to buy these days, individuals with tight budgets couldn’t ask for a better car. It really is a Swedish success in all the areas that matter.
Over 500,000 were produced during its life that ran from 1985 to 1998. The 9000 was actually Saab’s first attempt at the executive market, and it was a very popular choice. A few generations and upgrades were released in a myriad of trim levels; the CSE Turbo and Aero models were particularly impressive. The latter in particular could go from 50 to 75 mph faster than a Ferrari Testarossa thanks to some incredible gear ratios. However that’s as close to sports car territory as the Saab is likely to get.
With the 9000, the designers stuck to what they knew best, and as a result it looks pretty much identical to any other car from Saab’s line up during the 80s and 90s. The second generation is actually quite pleasing with its nice angles and strong features. With a large interior, comfortable seats and a decent amount of kit, there’s quite a lot going for this car. While not particularly exciting in terms of cabin design, it does exactly what’s required and can stand up to some abuse thanks to a teriffic build quality.
To drive it’s surprisingly good as well. Higher spec versions, especially those with the 3.0 V6 engines are actually rather sprightly and make for great motorway cruisers. Turbo versions also provide a nice power kick with the plus point of good economy. Relatively good steering, a comfortable ride and a sort of lazy agility make the 9000 a good all rounder.
It’s not the most expensive of cars to buy these days, and Motors.co.uk has a fantastic number of different second hand Saab 9000 models. You certainly won’t break the bank due to generous price reductions, and a uncompromising approach to quality means you’ll always get something noteworthy. Used cars for sale are budget busters, and the Saab is a real bargain.
So what you get with the 9000 is a great executive car that’s spacious, reliable and incredibly well built. While it may be a few years old now, there’s still a lot of life left in the old war horse. Good to drive with a comfortable and spacious cabin, the V6 versions offer a more than adequate level of performance. The truth is that you don’t have to spend a lot to get a fantastic car, and this is the perfect example.