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Overview

Similar to air-cooled 911s, the Saab 900 Turbo offers a unique driving experience. There’s no mistaking this car for anything else. From the distinctive wedge shape to the quirky airplane-inspired dashboard, the 

 

The Saab 900 Turbo Heritage edition, released in 1989, is a special edition of the Saab 900 Turbo that commemorated Saab's 40th anniversary. Here are some key features and details about the Saab 900 Turbo Heritage:

 

Unique Exterior: The Heritage edition typically featured unique exterior colors and special badging to distinguish it from standard Saab 900 Turbo models.

Interior Enhancements: The interior of the Heritage edition often had special touches to mark the occasion. This could include unique upholstery, badges, or other design elements.

Limited Production: Special edition models like the Heritage edition are often produced in limited numbers, adding to their exclusivity and desirability among collectors.

40th Anniversary Celebration: The Heritage edition was specifically released to celebrate Saab's 40 years in the automotive industry. As a result, it carries a certain historical significance for Saab enthusiasts.

Performance: While the focus of the Heritage edition was on its commemorative features, it likely retained the performance characteristics of the standard Saab 900 Turbo, known for its turbocharged engine and sporty driving experience.

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Features

STANDARD EQUIPMENT

  • APC Charge Pressure Control System

  • Charge Air AIntercooler

  • Electronic Fuel Injection System

  • Electronic Ignition, Hall Effect

  • Rack/Pinion Power-Assist Steering

  • 4 WHeel Power-Assist Disc Brakes

  • Tinted Glass All-Around

  • Electric Rear Window Demister

  • Undercoat/Anti-Corrosion Treatment

  • Upper Body Side Molding

  • Dual Power Mirrors, Heated

  • Gas/Hydraulic Shock Absorbers

  • Front/Rear Stabilizer Bars

  • Power Top with Full Headliner

  • Electric Windows, Front/Rear

  • Time Delay Courtesy Lights

  • Front/Rear Spoilers

  • Halogen Headlamps

  • Lights, COrnering/Side Reversing

  • Front Fog Lights

  • Tacho/Quartz Analog Clock

  • Driver Seat Height/Tilt Adjust

  • Reclining, Heated Front Seats

  • Rear Seat Headrests

  • Leather Seats

  • Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel

  • Central Lock System, Doors/Trunk

  • AC

  • Electronic Cruise Control

AFTERMARKET

  • Pioneer HD Radio/Bluetooth/USB/AUX/SXM Ready

  • Pioneer AM/FM/CD/BT Receiver

History & Maintenance

This is a three owner car and has records of regular service being performed. The car was originally purchased in Davenport, Iowa on May 26, 1989 for $30,582.52. Vehicle accessories added on included a Compact Disc Player, Gauge Package, Plush Floormats and a Mahogany Shift knob. Service from 1989 to 1993 regular maintenance was performed. In 98 the top was replaced, as well as window switches and the driver side window as replaced after it broke when closing the door while glass was down. Regular maintenance continued once more and the next large service was performed in 2009. The clutch master cylinder was replaced, as well as battery. In 2017 the car passed emissions/smog. In January 2017, Oil change was done and per phone the thermostat, electric cooling fan and temp sensor were replaced. The ignition switch was cleaned and lubed in January 2018. Work was done by Svenssons. Per inspection “After repairs performed, this car is as nearly new car condition as practical for an almost 30 year old car. Small to-do list at end of repairs.” 

 

On 4/27/2018 the car was inspected and a variety of repairs were made. Including Left quarter panel upper half has prior minor repair/repaint. Finish is rough and shows sanding marks. Left upper quarter was buffed and repaired. The trunk, hood, and other surfaces wer also buffed. Touch up misc. paint chips. Wax complete after buffing. Vehicle was detailed afterwards. A new battery was put in, since the prior battery’s date was 2010, no drain on battery after car sat for two weeks. PDR was performed on hood and lower portion of passenger side door. The valve cover gasket was replaced due to oil leak. Site of leak and underside of engine where oil accumulated was cleaned. Valve cover gasket was replaced, as well as water pump and belts. The AC was also repaired, heat and cooling work. A few cosmetic repairs were done on the interior including leather seat conditioner and upholstery repairs. All seams were re-sewn due to dried out and breaking thread. The brake lights, defogger switch, 4-way mirror switch and headlight switch were replaced. The fuel filter was replaced.

 

On 5/15/18 the car had new spark plugs put in as well as a new valve cover gasket which was a warranty repair.

 

8/10/18 car had a new a new cap, rotor, spark plugs, fuel filter, boost pump and main fuel pump installed in order to diagnose and repair runnability.

 

3/15/19 Reverse gear was repaired due to it popping out, reverse selector arm was modified to allower deeper engagement of reverse gear. Tech notes “DO NOT ENGAGE REVERSE WHILE CAR IS MOVING.”

 

10/9/19 Sheathing on wire harness was worn through. Wires were cleaned and sealed. A fresh battery was put in and the vehicle’s starter was replaced.

 

7/24/20 Auxiliary fan temperature sender was replaced due to the vehicle overheating and losing coolant.

 

8/13/20 Dash trim was repaired, oil replaced with Castrol Edge Synthetic and new oil filter installed.

 

4/22/22 Outer CV boot, and left front wheel and tire replaced due to pothole. Most recent oil change was done 7/8/22. A general inspection was performed as well as a detail and clean and leather care of seats.

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1989 Saab 900 Turbo

Fundamentals

  • VIN: YS3AT75L3K7020477

  • Year: 1989

  • Transmission: 5 Speed Manual 

  • Engine: 4 Cylinder 16 Valve DOHC Turbo

  • Miles: 44,113

  • Exterior Color: Cherry Red

  • Interior Color: Tan

  • Title: Clean

  • Consignment: Yes

  • Location: Minneapolis, MN

Heritage

The Saab 900 Turbo holds a significant place in automotive history, known for its distinctive design, innovative features and turbocharged performance. The 900 Turbo was introduced in 1978 as a high-performance variant of the Saab 900. It featured a turbocharged engine, which was relatively uncommon at the time, contributing to its sporty appeal.

 

Saab was one of the pioneers in the mainstream use of turbocharging technology in passenger cars. The turbocharged engine enhanced performance and became a hallmark of Saab's identity.

 

With its distinctive design, the Saab 900 Turbo was known for its unique and aerodynamic design. The wraparound windshield, distinct grille, and overall shape set it apart from other cars of its era.

 

The turbocharged engine not only provided a boost in power but also contributed to the 900 Turbo's reputation for spirited and enjoyable driving. The combination of performance and practicality appealed to a broad range of customers. The Saab 900 Turbo gained a cultural following and became an icon of the 1980s. Its appearance in popular culture, including movies and TV shows, contributed to its status as a symbol of automotive design and innovation.

1989 Saab 900 Turbo


 

The Saab 900 Turbo remained in production until the late 1990s when Saab faced financial challenges. The last generation of the Saab 900 series was succeeded by the Saab 9-3. Despite the end of production, the Saab 900 Turbo continues to be cherished by automotive enthusiasts and collectors for its unique characteristics and the mark it left on automotive history.

Interior                  B

The interior is in wonderful condition, given the age of the the vehicle. The heated front seats are in excellent condition and everything works as it should. The dash doesn’t have any signs of cracking. The factory radio has been replaced with a Pioneer CD player with Bluetooth. The only defects present are an 8-10” tear along a seam on the driver’s side rear seat cushion and some vinyl bubbling on the glovebox cover. The power top works well.

Exterior                A-

The Saab’s exterior is in great shape overall, with no obvious scratches or dents, and only a few minor rock chips in the paint. We did notice that the left rear quarter panel has been repainted at some point and the color is a close but not perfect match with the rest of the paint on the vehicle. A couple of wheels have some very minor scuffs present. The vehicle presents very well for its age and mileage.

Mechanical          A-

Mechanically, this Saab 900 Turbo starts and runs very well. The engine pulls strongly and has no issues building boost as it accelerates up to speed. The transmission shifts crisply and there is no abnormal play in the steering. At idle, the RPM will sometimes fluctuate between ~800-2000 RPM.

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Photographer's notes

Although I was only able to drive the Saab 900 Turbo on a frigid cold, snowy day, it’s not hard to imagine how much fun this car would be to drive on a warm, sunny day. It’s very comfortable and easy to drive and the engine pulls well when you prod the throttle. The handling felt a little floaty compared to most of the sports cars I’ve driven from this era but as a result, the ride when cruising down the highway was fantastic.

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