The Saab 9-3 Viggen is a rare and impressive sports sedan that was produced in a limited number of 4600 units. One of the lucky owners of this unique car is Ewoud Hallebeek, a Dutch freelance automotive journalist, who owns a 1999 model with a range of upgrades and enhancements.
When it comes to performance, Ewoud’s Viggen boasts a completely renovated engine with a staggering 320 horsepower. Thanks to a larger turbocharger, intercooler, improved camshafts, injectors, and other modifications, this car achieves incredible acceleration, making it a true “Swedish thunder” on the roads.
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The Saab 9-3 Viggen: A Swedish Legend
The Saab 9-3 Viggen is a rare and desirable sports sedan that was produced in limited numbers between 1999 and 2002. The Viggen was the brainchild of Saab’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division, and it was designed to be the ultimate expression of the 9-3’s performance potential.
The Viggen was powered by a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produced 225 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. This was enough to propel the Viggen from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 155 mph.
The Viggen was also distinguished by its aggressive exterior styling, which included a unique front fascia, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. The car was also fitted with a sport-tuned suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the Viggen featured a leather-trimmed interior, a sport steering wheel, and a boost gauge. The car was also equipped with a premium sound system and a power sunroof.
The Viggen was a critical and commercial success, and it quickly became one of the most sought-after sports sedans on the market. Today, the Viggen remains a highly desirable collector’s car.
The Saab 9-3 Viggen was launched in 1999 as a high-performance version of the regular 9-3 model. It was named after Viggen, the Saab 37, a Swedish Cold War-era fighter jet. Just like its namesake, the Viggen exudes power, speed, and a touch of Scandinavian engineering excellence.
The exterior design of the Viggen is striking and aerodynamic, with a unique front bumper, rear spoiler, side skirts, and 17-inch alloy wheels that add to its sporty appeal. Ewoud’s Viggen sports a beautiful silver metallic paint that further enhances its sleek and sophisticated look.
Inside the cabin, the Viggen offers a blend of comfort and sportiness. The seats are wrapped in leather and provide excellent support during spirited driving. The instrument cluster is easy to read and features a turbo boost gauge, reminding the driver of the car’s performance capabilities. Overall, the interior is well-designed and exudes a sense of quality that Saab is known for.
What sets the Viggen apart from other high-performance sedans of its time is its handling and suspension. Saab engineers have fine-tuned the suspension to provide a balance between comfort and sportiness. The Viggen grips the road with confidence, offering precise steering and minimal body roll, even during aggressive driving maneuvers.
Ewoud’s Viggen
Ewoud’s Viggen is not just a stock car; it has received several upgrades and modifications to enhance its performance and overall driving experience. The engine has been completely overhauled to deliver more power, thanks to a larger turbocharger and intercooler. The exhaust system has also been upgraded to provide a sporty and aggressive sound.
The Standard Viggen: A Swedish Sprinter
With its standard output of 225 horsepower, the Saab 9-3 Viggen was no slouch. The front-wheel-drive sedan accelerated like a rocket, at least if you could keep it on the road. If 225 hp was a handful, the 320 hp in Ewoud’s “Bliksemschicht” (“Bliksemschicht” is the Dutch translation of “Viggen”) makes us sweat.
The standard 9-3 Viggen already struggled to put its power down. The front-wheel drive and 343 lb-ft of torque made for a playful rear end that was quick to step out under too much throttle. This required a practiced hand to achieve the factory 0-60 mph time of 6.7 seconds. The Viggen was like a truffle dog searching for grip, always looking for the stickiest bits of asphalt.
The Tamed Lightning: Ewoud’s 320 hp Viggen
So how does Ewoud Hallebeek tame the 320 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque of his modified Viggen? The key lies in a subtle balance between upgrades and finesse.
Ewoud has extensively rebuilt the engine of his Viggen. Larger turbochargers, an intercooler, and other upgrades provide a significant increase in power. At the same time, the suspension has been optimized for better handling and stability. Upgraded brakes ensure added safety when slowing down the extra power.
However, brute force is not everything. Ewoud emphasizes the importance of finesse. He adapts his driving style to the conditions, focusing on precision and control. The “Bliksemschicht” may be a lightning bolt, but Ewoud is the lightning rod that keeps it in check.
Furthermore, Ewoud has invested in high-performance brakes to ensure that the car can handle the increased power. Upgraded suspension components have been installed to further improve the car’s handling characteristics. Additionally, a limited-slip differential has been added to provide better traction and stability during cornering.
Owning a Saab 9-3 Viggen is not just about owning a powerful and unique car; it is about being part of an exclusive club of enthusiasts who appreciate Scandinavian engineering and performance. Ewoud Hallebeek’s Viggen is a testament to his passion for cars and his desire to create a driving experience like no other.
In conclusion, the Saab 9-3 Viggen is a remarkable sports sedan that combines performance, style, and exclusivity. With its impressive power output, aerodynamic design, and upgraded components, it is no wonder that Ewoud Hallebeek cherishes his Viggen. This car represents the epitome of Swedish engineering prowess and is a true gem in the automotive world.
Didn’t realise it was a 320 bhp motor back then , I know the 9-5 hot was a 260 bhp and the later 9000 models were about 250 bhp I think . The 9000 Aero was a fast car at the time , it was said it could out accelerate a Lamborghini between 50- 70 mph which was quite an achievement. All the same I knew the 9-3 Viggen was very fast but 320 bhp wow !
Stock the car was not 320. Highly modified to get there.
225 bhp through the front wheels without any kind of traction control wasn’t optimal, to say the least. Floored my 900 NG turbo with just 185 bhp a couple of times and it was … scary. On one occasion, the drive train moved about so much that the gear fell out. About 100 more bhp through those front wheels sounds insane.
Awesome machine, I had a convertible Aero 210bhp, wolf in sheep’s clothing…
I enjoy my Viggen very much.
Hatseflats gaan met die banaan
Made in Uusikaupunki, Finland
My Viggen is completely Original for a long Life.
There all gone cause they cook the motors. Why would you run a hot exhaust right under oil pan and not add any heat shielding. I worked on those new.
From the article: “The front-wheel drive and 343 lb-ft of torque made for a playful rear end that was quick to step out under too much throttle.”
I owned a 1999 9-3 SE and with front wheel drive the FRONT END would lose traction when too much throttle was used. That’s called understeer. I never lost control of the rear end of the Saab and I did crazy stuff in that car.
I currently own a 2016 Ford Mustang 5.0 L and with rear wheel drive and the REAR END will lose traction when too much throttle is used and the rear end will step out. That’s called oversteer.