SAAB 900

    At the same time as Saabs engineers felt ready to get started on a new model series, stricter collision safety requirements were announced by the U.S. authorities. Cars were required to be driven into a barrier at 30 mph (about 50 km/h) carrying two passengers and luggage, without more than one-fourth of the windscreen surround sustaining damage. Saab could have passed this test by modifying the Saab 99, but there was at the same time a need for renewal without fancy trimmings. The answer was the Saab 900, half of it newly designed and half of the best from the Saab 99. The basic body of Combi Coupe hatchback type is 12 cm longer than the corresponding Saab 99, the wheelbase 5 cm longer. Its roadholding was improved by redesigning a number of chassis components. Also new as compared with the 99 was the facia. And under the right-handed grille on top of the bonnet was a worldexclusive automotive innovation; a ventilation air filter for the interior that traps dust, pollen and even certain bacteria - good news for all those who suffer from allergies.
    Right from the outset, the Saab 900 was offered with a comprehensive range of engine alternatives - from the carburettor engine developing 100 bhp to the Turbo unit with 145 bhp. The Saab 900 in the museum us a GLE version for the U.S. market with an injection engine. Its chassis serial number is 00017. It was long used as a general purpose delivery vehicle in the Trollhättan factory area before being pensioned off, dolled up and put on show in the museum.