1994-1998 Saab 900: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1994-1998 Saab 900 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (V6, turbo)
- Steering/handling
- Passenger and cargo room
Cons
- Ride
- Wind noise
- Road noise
Vehicle Highlights
The 1994 Saab 900 was the first new 900-series model in 15 years. It retained its front-wheel drive and rode on a longer wheelbase, but was two inches shorter and was the first Saab to offer a V6. Initially offered as a 4-door hatchback in both 900S and 900SE trim, the 2-door hatchback and convertible arrived later in the year. Two-doors and convertibles came equipped with a turbocharged 185-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The 900S came with a 150-horsepower, 2.3-liter 4-cylinder. The 900SE 4-door came with the new 170-horsepower 2.5-liter V6. A 5-speed manual was standard and a 4-speed automatic was optional. Standard were dual airbags and 4-wheel antilock disc brakes.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Saab 900S Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 48 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1994-1998 Saab 900. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1994-1998 Saab 900.
Year to Year Changes
1995 Saab 900/Turbo:
Model lineups and powertrain combinations remain unchanged for 1995.
1996 Saab 900/Turbo:
The turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine becomes available on the 4-door model for '96 and can be paired with a 4-speed automatic for the first time. The optional V6 comes only with the automatic transmission for '96. Appearance changes include a standard rear spoiler for the 2-door and rear body panel styled to blend with the headlamps.
1997 Saab 900/Turbo:
The primary change for 1997 is the addition of larger front brakes, designed to aid stopping performance and extend pad life.
1998 Saab 900/Turbo:
Saab drops the V6 engine in all 900 models. A replacement model called the 9-3 would arrive for '99.
Our road test for the 1994-1998 Saab 900 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1994-1998 Saab 900 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1994-1998 Saab 900 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
This new Saab retained its upright stance and stuck to its hatchback design. As a result, it preserved such virtues as generous head and leg room, plus enormous cargo space from what is basically a very compact car. However, mainstream buyers may find the key position is too disorienting and the cabin too narrow. The dashboard is little changed, so most controls are close at hand. But the power-window buttons are mounted between the seats rather than on the door panels where they'd be more convenient to operate. The V6 feels strong and smooth, and works particularly well with the new 4-speed automatic. It shifts quickly and consistently with no hesitation. It downshifts smoothly, eagerly providing all the passing power you need. The 900's 2.3-liter 4-cylinder has adequate power with the manual, but feels underpowered when paired with the automatic. Body lean is evident when taking turns at speed, but these cars have a generally sporty feel, with precise steering and excellent grip. The taut suspension provides excellent control, but combines with the modest wheelbase for a ride that's choppy enough over rough pavement to deter some buyers. Wind and road noise are disconcerting at highway speeds.
Value for the Money
Mainstream shoppers interested in a near-luxury car still aren't likely to put the Saab 900 on their must-see list, but we credit Saab with making a better 900 for those who love and appreciate its quirky nature.
Mainstream shoppers interested in a near-luxury car still aren't likely to put the Saab 900 on their must-see list, but we credit Saab with making a better 900 for those who love and appreciate its quirky nature.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Saab 900S Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 48 |
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 900/Turbo includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Saab 900/Turbo .
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.
Audio system:
Scratches or microscopic cracks in the rear-window heater grid cause interference in the radio when the rear defroster is turned on. (All)
Battery:
Due to faulty time delay relay, electric cooling fan may not turn off. This usually results in a dead battery. (1989-98)
Climate control:
If blower on the automatic climate control quits working, the control unit may have failed. (1994-98)
Engine fan:
The battery may go dead because the cooling-fan relay, which allows the fan to run 10 minutes after the engine is turned off, keeps the fan on. (1994-96)
Hard starting:
The turbo bypass valve is secured with plastic clamps that break, causing hard starting and poor drivability. (All)
Poor drivability:
Stumble, stalling, or hesitation during the first minute after startup is corrected by replacing the engine-control computer. (1994-95)
Transmission leak:
The gear-selector shaft seal is prone to leak on manual transmissions. (1994-96)
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 | $665 |
| Alternator | $455 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,250 |
| Brakes | $265 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $655 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $485 |
| Exhaust System | $640 |
| Radiator | $395 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $990 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $630 |
Our price chart for this generation Saab 900/Turbo details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
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| 1998 | |||
| 900 | $2,800-4,000 | $2,100-3,000 | $600-900 |
| 900 Convertible | $4,600-5,300 | $3,900-4,500 | $1,700-2,000 |
| 900 Turbo hatchback | $3,500-4,100 | $2,800-3,300 | $900-1,100 |
| 1997 | |||
| 900 | $2,500-3,300 | $1,800-2,400 | $500-700 |
| 900 Convertible | $4,100-4,800 | $3,400-3,900 | $1,400-1,600 |
| 900 Turbo hatchback | $3,200-3,800 | $2,500-3,000 | $800-1,000 |
| 1996 | |||
| 900 | $2,200-2,900 | $1,600-2,100 | $400-600 |
| 900 Convertible | $3,600-4,300 | $2,900-3,400 | $1,000-1,200 |
| 900 Turbo hatchback | $2,900-3,500 | $2,200-2,700 | $700-800 |
| 1995 | |||
| 900 | $2,000-2,600 | $1,400-1,800 | $300-400 |
| 900 Convertible | $3,200-3,900 | $2,500-3,000 | $800-1,000 |
| 900 Turbo hatchback | $2,600-3,200 | $1,900-2,400 | $500-700 |
| 1994 | |||
| 900 | $1,800-2,400 | $1,200-1,600 | $300-400 |
| 900 Convertible | $2,800-3,500 | $2,100-2,600 | $600-800 |
| 900 Turbo hatchback | $2,400-3,000 | $1,700-2,200 | $500-600 |
|
|
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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 900/Turbo include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door hatchback | 4-door hatchback |
| Wheelbase, in. | 102.4 | 102.4 | 102.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 182.6 | 182.6 | 182.5 |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.4 | 67.4 | 67.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.5 | 56.5 | 56.5 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3130 | 2940 | 2980 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 28.3 | 49.8 | 49.8 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.0 | 18.0 | 18.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.3 | 39.3 | 39.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.3 | 42.3 | 43.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.9 | 37.8 | 37.8 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.0 | 36.2 | 36.2 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Powertrain Options and Availability
The 900S comes with a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder, previously available only in the Saab 9000. It provides 150 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 155 pound-feet of torque at 4300 rpm. The 900SE 5-door comes with the new V6, a 2.5-liter unit derived from one used by both Vauxhall and Opel. It delivers 170 horsepower at 5900 rpm and 167 pound-feet of torque at 4200 rpm. With both engines, a 5-speed manual is standard and a 4-speed automatic is optional. The automatic is Saab's first 4-speed unit and features electronic controls that provide a choice of "sport," "economy," or "winter" settings. The latter allows the car to start out in third gear, to avoid wheel spin. While awaiting the arrival of new convertible models, Saab continues to sell holdover ragtops with either the 2.1-liter engine or the old 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. The 2.1-liter offers 140 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 133 pound-feet of torque at 2900 rpm. Saab's turbocharged 4-cylinder from the '93 model provides 160 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 188 pound-feet of torque at 4300 rpm. Saab is also providing 500 Commemorative Edition versions of these convertibles (both 900 and 900 Turbo models) with special black paint and trim, with the more potent 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder delivering 185 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 1994 pound-feet of torque at 2100 rpm.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.1 / 129 | 140 | 133 | 5-speed manual: 20/26 3-speed automatic: 18/21 |
5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 2.3 / 140 | 150 | 155 | 5-speed manual: 20/29 4-speed automatic: 20/28 |
5-speed manual: 24.4 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 2.0 / 129 | 160-185 | 188-194 | 5-speed manual: 21/28 3-speed automatic: 19/23 |
5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V6 | 2.5 / 152 | 170 | 167 | 5-speed manual: 18/25 4-speed automatic: 19/27 |
5-speed manual: 19.3 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Sweden
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Saab 900/Turbo include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1997 900 |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
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 1994-1998 Saab 900 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1994 hatchback:
Weld omitted from manual driver's-seat rails.
1994:
On some manual front seats, trigger springs at fore/aft lever do not properly lock the seat rails.
1994:
Weld points for side-protection beam in rear door may be out of position.
1994-95 w/manual shift:
It is possible to move shift lever into reverse, remove key, and still be in neutral.
1994-95:
Welds on recliner may be missing, allowing seatback to fall backward when under load.
1994-97:
Corrosion can cause throttle lever to bind.
1994-98:
Instructions for properly aiming headlights were omitted.
1995 convertible:
Steering-column shaft may be misaligned.
1995 w/Bosch "Motronic 2.10.3":
Upon startup, engine speed may fluctuate for up to 30 seconds.
1995:
Some vehicles may have defective airbag electronic control units, causing an electrical short and possible deployment. Dealer will inspect and replace all affected parts.
1996:
Seatbelt anchorage on some cars may not properly secure the occupant in an accident.
1997-98:
Airbag alert label on driver's sunvisor was omitted.
1998:
Static electricity can build up within the passenger-side airbag module and create enough of a charge to cause an inadvertent airbag deployment.
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