1990 Saab 900 Convertible
The unmistakable boxy silhouette of the Saab 900 has arguably become one of the most iconic shapes to come out of Scandinavia’s automotive industry, perhaps along with the Volvo 850 estate. Brought in to replace the Saab 99, the 900’s primary guise was as a four-door family saloon. However, not wanting their customers to miss out on the brisk Nordic weather – or perhaps more likely to appeal to warmer, overseas markets – the 900 also spawned convertible variants, such as this one.
SALES SPOTLIGHT
- YEAR: 1990
- MOT: June 2022
The origins of the 900 extend back to the late ‘70s, meaning that by the time this 1990 example had been produced, the model had gone through various evolutions. In addition to a cosmetic facelift with new bumpers, grille and lamp units, late cars were given vented disc brakes at the front and other upgraded mechanical details, such as water-cooled turbos for cars so-fitted (not applicable in this case).
By 1990, all 900s were equipped with 16-valve engines as standard too, though the combination alongside Saab’s three-speed automatic gearbox (which you will also find in this particular car) resulted in less-than-ideal fuel consumption figures. That said, by classic standards, 21 mpg or thereabouts is perfectly fine, though you might not want to use it as a daily driver.
Imported from the island of Jersey in 2020, the silver convertible has just 30,600 miles on the clock. But that doesn’t mean it’s just been left to rot. The car underwent a full service just 600 miles ago and has plenty of maintenance history in its logbook. Plus, the dealer has put four new Avon tyres on it, and the retractable roof has been replaced with a better quality one.
Inside, you’ll find a mauve cloth interior, and a good collection of creature comforts. The windows are electric all-round, as are the wing mirrors and even the convertible roof system can be deployed at the push of a button. The car also comes with heated seats – an option that’s useful not only in chilly Sweden, but here in the UK too, especially now in winter.
The original Phillips radio/cassette player remains intact – no aftermarket audio installation to be seen here. And, in keeping with the vehicle’s originality, it still even has its Saab-branded first aid kit. The paintwork is dent and rust-free, though there a few small stone chips here and there as is to be expected of a car this age. Overall, there is very little to fault this 900 with – it even has the 3-spoke rims! If you want it, it’ll be yours for £12,995.
ONE TO BUY
- ENGINE: 1985cc, 4-cyl
- MAX POWER: 126bhp
- TOP SPEED: 109mph
- 0-60mph: 11.5 seconds
- ECONOMY: 21 mpg
- GEARBOX: 3-spd auto
- PRICE: £12,995
Contact: Stone Cold Classics Nepicar Park, Wrotham, Kent, TN15 7RR Tel: 07711 645 465 www.stonecoldclassics.com