Saab 9000
automobile made by Saab, was released in 1984. The 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 first year the only engine available was a watercooled 4 cylinder with a turbocharger, at 1985 cc and double overhead camshafts, 16 valves, giving 176 hp (131 kW).
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 and the Talladega version.
- 1990: Introduction of a 200 hp (150 kW) 2.3 litre turbo engine.
- 1992: Introduction of the CS model.
- 1993: Introduction of the CD Aero, the strongest and fastest Saab ever made. The engine was a 2.3 litre turbo with 225 hp (168 kW).
- 1995: Introduction of the first V6 engine, a 3 litre non-turbo with 210 hp.
- 1996: Introduction of the Ecopower engine, a 2.0 litre 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, 503087 Saab 9000 were manufactured. It was replaced by the Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5.
