The guys from Donut Media productions have created an excellent video dedicated to Saab cars and the impact of this brand on the entire car industry. Video had over a 300,000 views in just 5 days
This video reminds us one of episodes of old “Top gear” UK. When GM announced SAAB would be dead, they made an episode for SAAB how they were so great.
Still, we can’t believe why such a good car maker was gone. This is just one separate answer: Maybe SAAB was too good at making nice cars so that they forgot THE most important thing: how to make profit…
Join James Pumphrey as he tells you everything you need to know about the Saab 92, Saab 93, Saab 99 Turbo, Saab 900, Saab 9-3, Saab 9-5 and Saab 92x Aero:
Many of us identify Saab with Turbo technology.
The first turbocharger applications were limited to very large engines, e.g. marine engines. In the automotive engine industry, turbocharging started with truck engines. In 1938, the first turbocharged engine for trucks was built by the “Swiss Machine Works Saurer“.
The Chevrolet Corvair Monza and the Oldsmobile Jetfire were the first turbo-powered passenger cars, and made their debut on the US market in 1962/63.
But, the reason why Saab are considered the pioneer of turbocharged cars is not the turbo itself. With the original 99 Turbo they invented the modern wastegate, thus making the turbo engines reliable and feasible for use outside of the racetrack. Ever since they were also on the leading edge on turbo technology, some of the highlights were APC (1980) and Trionic (1994).
Mid-range torque, overtaking power over 0-100kph times, 4cyl efficient turbo motors in large cars, heated – and ventilated seats, my Aero with its pace, and load space! That was in 1997. Those cars were simply 15 years ahead of their time.
It beggars belief this company wasn’t saved – and I didn’t mention crash safety.
Now, I need more antidepressants and a box of tissues…
I have chosen to buy low mileage Saabs than spend £10,000 on a metal box. You can still do it but they are getting rarer!