Jens Christian Boysen, a Norwegian automotive enthusiast with a penchant for vintage cars, has captured the hearts of many through his deep-rooted love for automobiles, particularly his cherished green Saab 900 Turbo. An interview recently conducted by Norwegian media outlet D2 sheds light on his unwavering passion for classic cars and his unique connection with the iconic Saab 900 Turbo.
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Discovering the Saab 900 Turbo
Under the Instagram handle @parkingspotter, Jens Christian Boysen, who works as a communication advisor at Hydro, has revealed his favorite automobile gems to the world. However, it’s the Saab 900 Turbo that holds a special place in his heart. His recent Saab Turbo post on Instagram garnered an astounding response, amassing over 250,000 views and counting.
The Enduring Fascination with Saab
Why do people still hold a deep fascination for Saab? In 1977, Saab introduced the world’s first family car equipped with a turbocharger. While Porsche had already released the 911 Turbo and BMW the 2002 Turbo, these models couldn’t quite match Saab’s innovation. The Saab Turbo allowed parents to experience the thrill of a sports car while driving a family-friendly vehicle.
The legacy of Saab’s aviation history also contributes to its allure. The slogan “Born from jets” coupled with “Intelligence on four wheels” epitomized Saab’s identity. The 900 model played a pivotal role in helping Saab establish the United States as its primary market, with over 48,000 units sold in its peak year of 1986.
A Touch of Aviation Heritage
Does the Saab Turbo provide a pilot-like experience? Despite his background in aviation and years of flying gliders, Jens Christian Boysen doesn’t feel like a pilot when driving the Saab. Nevertheless, he acknowledges the connection to Saab’s aviation heritage, with its curved windshield and elevated instrument panel resembling the ergonomic layout of a cockpit.
Unique Features of Jens Christian Boysen’s 1980 Saab 900 Turbo
Jens Christian Boysen’s profound connection with his 1980 Saab 900 Turbo extends beyond its striking appearance. He aptly describes his Saab as a demonstration of the Nordic culture of openness and transparency, a sentiment reflected in the vehicle’s distinct design elements.
One of the most captivating features of Boysen’s Saab is the double vented hood, a hallmark of the 1979 and 1980 model years. This design choice not only showcases Saab’s commitment to innovation but also adds a touch of intrigue to the vehicle’s character.
Notably, the vent on the passenger side serves a functional purpose, acting as a ventilation air intake that leads to the pollen filter. This forward-thinking feature was ahead of its time, emphasizing Saab’s dedication to driver and passenger comfort.
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However, the vent on the driver’s side of the hood takes on a more curious role. While it may seem unconventional, this seemingly impractical vent holds historical significance. It allows rainwater to drip directly onto the brake fluid reservoir. Jens Christian Boysen’s attention to detail is evident as he points out the missing plastic cover that was originally intended to shield the brake fluid reservoir from this unique quirk. In a stroke of fortune, he possesses an image of this cover, a rarity among most cars of this model. Moreover, he hints at the possibility of additional moldings that might have been present on the hood’s underside in the past, a testament to the intricacies of Saab’s design evolution.
As Boysen’s Saab 900 Turbo embodies a blend of functionality, innovation, and even unexpected quirks, it serves as a vivid example of the manufacturer’s commitment to crafting vehicles that stand out both aesthetically and functionally. Through Boysen’s insightful observations, his Saab becomes not just a classic car, but a captivating narrative of automotive history and design choices. If any readers possess further information about these distinct features, Boysen’s eagerness to learn adds an interactive dimension to the ongoing story of his treasured automobile.
Jens Christian Boysen’s Saab 900 Turbo: The Specs
Boasting a lineage derived from the 1977 Saab 99 Turbo, Jens Christian Boysen’s Saab 900 Turbo is a testament to classic engineering:
- 2-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 143 horsepower
- 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds
- Top speed of 202 km/h
- Over 900,000 units produced between 1978 and 1994
Championing Traditional Fuels in the Electric Era
In a recent Shell promo video titled “Saab 900 Turbo – St1 Norge/Ribalta PR,” Jens Christian Boysen emphasizes the importance of not neglecting vintage and classic cars amidst the general electrification of the automotive sector. He underscores the continued relevance of fossil fuels for older vehicles that still rely on them, advocating for their recognition and proper care.
A Tribute to Automotive Passion
Jens Christian Boysen’s fervent affection for his Saab 900 Turbo goes beyond the realm of conventional admiration. It’s a testament to the enduring allure of vintage automobiles and the deep-seated connections enthusiasts build with their cherished vehicles. His commitment to promoting traditional fuels for classic cars in an era of electrification showcases his dedication to preserving the legacy and soul of these automotive treasures.
This same car on to Sweden roud i enjouj and lot year 1989..
Have owned a SAAB 900. I think many people have not understood how much innovation was put into that car. Before its time. And then Opel bought SAAB….
To Håvard Damli >
I have a list of all the innovations SAAB brought to the automotive world that other automakers use now, SAAB was so ahead of everyone else… that’s why we love them!
Bellissima.. bel colore, begli accostamenti degli interni, che macchina stupenda era!
I had one of those in that same color. We named it “Kermit the SAAB”
I love this. I had a 1978, white on burgandy, just like the picture. Fun to drive!☺️☺️☺️
Back in about 1983 I was working in Oman and we needed to bring three company cars back from Salalah to Muscat. They were Corollas but four of us went down across the Empty Quarter in one of these one Eid. 1100 km along a very straight road. We stopped in the desert and it was 120 degrees but didn’t feel hot because it was so dry. Awesome cars. I still have a 9-3 Aero Cabriolet. The fun was coming back in the Corollas. Mine had no AC and the exhaust blew after about 250km. It was a hot and loud journey back!
I had one of these! Now, 2010 95 Aero. Next to impossible to get new shocks and struts changed out! Even if I buy a kit, no one will install🥲