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Saab 9000, an automobile made by Saab, was released in 1984. The five door chassis was common with the Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema and Alfa Romeo 164. The Fiat and Lancia looked quite much like the Saab, but the Alfa Romeo only used the same chassis. That they were very similar led that many parts can be used regardless of brand. The doors from the Fiat Croma fit directly on the 9000, but are lighter, probably due to less side impact protection. Also the windscreen from the Croma can be used on the 9000.
The cW value was 0.32. The design was done by Giorgetto Giugiaro.
The 9000 is the only Saab with ignition key hole located under steering wheel - others have it behind shifting lever.
The first year the only engine available was a watercooled 4 cylinder Slant-4 with a turbocharger, at 1985 cc and double overhead camshafts, 16 valves, giving 176 hp (131 kW). It was equiped with computer display showing actual and aproximate fuel consumption, distance to empty fuel tank and outside temperature. It also controlled all light bulbs for failures.
Further history:
- 1986: Introduction of a 2.0i engine with 130 hp (97 kW).
- 1987: Adding water cooling to the turbo.
- 1988: Introduction of the CD model (four door) and the Talladega version.
- 1989: Introduction of Saab Direct Ignition - electronic ignition system
- 1990: Introduction of a 200 hp (150 kW) 2.3 L turbo engine.
- 1992: Introduction of the CS model (lowered headlights, redesigned hatch, etc).
- 1993: Introduction of the CS Aero, the second strongest and fastest Saab ever made (beaten by the 9-3 Viggen). The engine was a tuned 2.3 L turbo with 225 hp (168 kW), the Auto only produced 200bhp (150kw) due to the huge torque exerted on the auto box. The Aero also had special 16" 'Super Aero' wheels, and a lower ride hight to improve handling. The Aero body-kit was fitted as standard to all Aero models.
- 1995: Introduction of the first V6 engine, a 3.0 L 54° non-turbo with 210 hp.
- 1996: Introduction of the Ecopower engine, a 2.0 L turbo engine giving 150 hp (112 kW). The Ecopower was an electric preheating of the engine giving lower emissions when starting the engine.
- 1997: Introduction of the A50 model, a special celebration model to honour Saab's 50th anniversary. The A50 came with special 8 spoke wheels, the skirts from the Aero and leather seats with the old Saab logo on the back of the seat.
- 1998: Introduction of The Classic, the final model in the 9000 series.
In total, 503,087 Saab 9000s were manufactured. It was replaced by the Saab 9-5.
Awards
The 9000 Turbo was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list from 1986 through 1989.
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