1999-2008 Saab 9-5: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Saab launched its "senior" series for 1999 to replace the old 9000 models. A front-drive luxury automobile, the 9-5 ("Nine-Five") came in sedan form at first, later joined by a station wagon. Base and uplevel versions went on sale in spring 1998. A 170-horsepower, 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder served as the base engine, and a 200-hp turbo V6 was optional. Either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission worked with the 4-cylinder engine, but the V6 was automatic only. All models had antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, and front head/chest airbags. Active front head restraints were designed to spring forward to counteract whiplash in a rear-end collision. Saab's larger model competed against the Acura RL, Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Lexus GS 300/400, Lincoln LS, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.