1990-1998 Saab 9000: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1998 Saab 9000 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Antilock brakes
- Acceleration (Turbo)
- Handling/roadholding
- Passenger and cargo room
Cons
- Noise
- Ride (Turbo)
- Acceleration (1990 non-Turbo)
- Automatic climate control
Vehicle Highlights
Saab introduced the 9000 series back in 1986, as a step up from the long-lived 900 series. Like the smaller Saab, the 9000 was front-wheel drive. By 1990, two body styles were on sale: a 4-door notchback and a 4-door hatchback. Two 2.0-liter dual-overhead-cam 4-cylinder engines were available: a 130-horsepower version, and a 165-horsepower Turbo. During the 1990 model year, a new 2.3-liter engine replaced the standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, developing 150 horsepower. Any model might have either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic. The lineup included an S hatchback, Turbo hatchback, a CD notchback, and a CD Turbo notchback. All models had a driver-side airbag.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Saab 9000 CSE Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 50 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1998 Saab 9000. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1998 Saab 9000.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Saab 9000:
A new entry-level 9000 hatchback joined the lineup, and a 2.3-liter engine went into Turbo models (rated at 200 horsepower).
1992 Saab 9000:
Turbo models gained traction control this year. A new top-line, limited-production Griffin Edition sedan joined the line. Only 400 Turbo Griffins were to be built.
1993 Saab 9000:
Model designations were shuffled for 1993, and equipment lists modified. The former base hatchback was now called CS, while the luxury 9000S hatchback earned a CSE badge. The luxury version of the notchback 4-door adopted a CDE tag. The Turbo engine now was an option for all four models. Hatchbacks adopted front and rear styling similar to the notchback sedans, adding four inches to overall length. An Aero edition arrived later in the model year.
1994 Saab 9000:
A passenger-side airbag went into 1994 models. The lineup consisted of CS and CS Turbo hatchbacks, a CDE Turbo notchback, CSE and CSE Turbo hatchbacks, and a 9000 Aero hatchback. The CD notchback sedan was gone. The normally aspirated engine now produced 146 horsepower. The 9000 Aero got a 225-horsepower Turbo engine, while other Turbos again were rated at 200 horsepower.
1995 Saab 9000:
A 200-horsepower Turbo remained available in the CSE hatchback, but the new 210-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 could be installed instead. The performance-oriented Aero hatchback again used a 225-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder. The sole remaining notchback model, the CDE, got front and rear styling similar to the CS. Only an automatic transmission was available with V6 models.
1996 Saab 9000:
Only hatchback 4-doors remained after '95 as the CDE sedan faded. The V6 engine remained available as an option in the CSE.
1997 Saab 9000:
Little change was evident in 1997.
1998 Saab 9000:
For 1998, the final season for the 9000, only a low-production CSE was on sale. An all-new premium model--the 9-5--was in the works for '99.
Our road test for the 1990-1998 Saab 9000 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1998 Saab 9000 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1998 Saab 9000 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The Turbo is a well-balanced sport sedan with super performance and fine handling. Acceleration is the sort that you'd expect of a sporty car in this price range. Base-engined 9000s feel underpowered. But, acceleration improved with the arrival of the normally aspirated 2.3-liter engine. Even so, it ranks no higher than adequate. The 2.3-liter also is quieter and better isolated than the 2.0-liter engine, making for far smoother performance. The V6 is smooth and quiet, providing strong acceleration and brisk passing power--though not much real gusto. The 4-speed automatic that comes with the V6 shifts smoothly and downshifts quickly for passing. A firm (yet compliant) ride is the 9000's hallmark. With its sport suspension and lower-profile Z-rated tires, the 9000 Turbo sacrifices the pliant ride of its siblings for one that's jiggly, nervous, and noisy. Interior room is generous for four large adults. But, like the 900, there is too much road and tire noise. Also the climate-control system has too many buttons and resets itself each time the car is restarted.
Value for the Money
A lot of premium sedans are on the market with similar prices, from the BMW 3-Series and Lexus ES 300 to the more recent Mazda Millenia and Oldsmobile Aurora. So, check out several before buying.
A lot of premium sedans are on the market with similar prices, from the BMW 3-Series and Lexus ES 300 to the more recent Mazda Millenia and Oldsmobile Aurora. So, check out several before buying.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Saab 9000 CSE Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 50 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Saab 9000 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Saab 9000 .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Climate control:
The automatic climate control may store false trouble codes which requires a new controller to eliminate. (1990-93)
Dashboard lights:
The check-engine light may come on although there is no problem. Saab offers a new EGR wiring harness to fix the problem. (1990)
Dashboard lights:
A small number of cars will illuminate the SRS light although there is no problem. The company offers to replace the control module. (1995)
Hard starting:
Engine may not start due to a cracked hose on the fuel-pump assembly in the tank. (1990-92)
Hood/trunk:
Jammed hood may require a replacement lock mechanism. (1997-98)
Vehicle noise:
Front tires rub against the wheel wells when steering turned to full lock position. (1992)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $630 |
| Alternator | $455 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,005 |
| Brakes | $370 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $570 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $530 |
| Exhaust System | $590 |
| Radiator | $335 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $620 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $160 |
Our price chart for this generation Saab 9000 details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1998 | |||
| 9000 Turbo | $4,000-4,700 | $3,300-3,900 | $1,300-1,500 |
| 1997 | |||
| 9000 | $2,700-3,700 | $2,000-2,800 | $600-800 |
| 9000 Turbo | $3,300-4,000 | $2,600-3,200 | $800-1,000 |
| 1996 | |||
| 9000 | $2,200-3,200 | $1,600-2,300 | $400-600 |
| 9000 Turbo | $2,700-3,400 | $2,000-2,600 | $600-700 |
| 1995 | |||
| 9000 | $1,900-2,400 | $1,300-1,700 | $300-400 |
| 9000 Turbo | $2,300-3,000 | $1,700-2,200 | $400-600 |
| 1994 | |||
| 9000 | $1,600-2,100 | $1,100-1,400 | $200-300 |
| 9000 Turbo | $2,000-2,700 | $1,400-1,900 | $300-500 |
| 1993 | |||
| 9000 | $1,400-1,900 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| 9000 Turbo | $1,700-2,200 | $1,100-1,500 | $300 |
| 1992 | |||
| 9000 | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| 9000 Turbo | $1,500-1,900 | $1,000-1,200 | $200 |
| 1991 | |||
| 9000 | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| 9000 Turbo | $1,300-1,700 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| 1990 | |||
| 9000 | $1,000-1,400 | $600-800 | $100 |
| 9000 Turbo | $1,200-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Saab 9000 include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 1993-98 4-door hatchback | 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 105.2 | 105.2 |
| Overall Length, in. | 187.4 | 188.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.4 | 69.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.9 | 55.9 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3170 | 3260 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 56.5 | 17.8 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.4 | 17.4 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.5 | 38.5 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.5 | 41.5 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.4 | 37.4 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 39.0 | 38.8 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Over the 1990-97 span, a bewildering variety of dual-overhead-cam engines went into the Saab 9000, starting with normally aspirated and turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinders. Engines soon grew to 2.3-liter size, adding considerable power. Strongest of the lot was the 225-horsepower Turbo, installed in the 9000 Aero. Not until 1995 did the larger Saab get the choice of a V6 engine. Saabs might have either 5-speed manual shift or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Only automatic was offered with the V6.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.0 / 121 | 130 | 128 | 5-speed manual: 21/28 4-speed automatic: 18/24 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 2.0 / 121 | 165 | 195 | 5-speed manual: 20/26 4-speed automatic: 18/24 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 2.3 / 140 | 146-150 | 151-157 | 5-speed manual: 19/27 4-speed automatic: 17/27 |
5-speed manual: 23.6 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 2.3 / 140 | 170 | 192 | 5-speed manual: 21/29 4-speed automatic: 18/27 |
5-speed manual: 22 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 2.3 / 140 | 200-225 | 238-244 | 5-speed manual: 21/29 4-speed automatic: 17/25 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 18.9 |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 180 | 210 | 200 | 4-speed automatic: 18/27 | 4-speed automatic: 19.7 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Sweden
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Saab 9000 include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1998 Saab 9000 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1990:
Problem in back-up-light circuit could result in fire.
1991:
Ball in automatic-transmission linkage could separate from socket.
1992-93:
Fuel-filler and tank-vent hoses may crack.
1992-94 w/"MK II" ABS:
Moisture can result in false illumination of ABS or brake-warning lights.
1992-94 w/engine oil cooler:
In frontal crash, crossmember can contact portion of hose assembly and cause breakage.
1992-94:
Airbag could deploy inadvertently, due to moisture entering control module.
1993:
Piston in brake-light switch may stick.
1994 CD/CSE:
Brake-light bulb may be improperly wired.
1997-98:
Airbag alert label on driver's sunvisor was omitted.
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