Frozen in Time: A 78-Mile Saab 900 Turbo Convertible!

Introduction: A Collector’s Dream from Saab’s Golden Age

Among Saab enthusiasts, the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo Convertible Springtime in Sweden (SIS) Edition holds legendary status. With only 288 examples ever produced, this special-edition convertible represents Saab’s mastery of turbocharged performance and design innovation. Now, one of these rare gems has resurfaced—an untouched survivor with just 78 miles on the odometer.

Currently listed on Bring a Trailer with bids exceeding $50,900, this pristine car offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of Saab’s rich history. Let’s dive into what makes this car extraordinary and why it has captured the imagination of enthusiasts worldwide.

The Exclusive Springtime in Sweden Edition

The Springtime in Sweden (SIS) Edition was Saab’s way of celebrating its innovative turbocharged engineering and Scandinavian design ethos. Released in limited numbers—just 288 cars—this edition was available exclusively in Black (170B) paired with a Buffalo Gray leather interior. Each car was adorned with SPG-style aerodynamic trim, lower body cladding, and a distinctive plaque engraved with “Springtime in Sweden 1988” on the glovebox.

Other notable exterior features include:

• Power-retractable black convertible top
• Fog lights for enhanced visibility
• Three-piece rigid soft-top cover
• Power-adjustable side mirrors and cornering lights
• Silver-finished 15-inch three-spoke wheels with factory Michelin tires

Each detail of the SIS edition highlighted Saab’s unique combination of luxury, functionality, and performance.

Turbocharged Brilliance Under the Hood

At the heart of this Saab lies a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, capable of producing 160 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a three-speed automatic transaxle, the car was factory-rated to deliver smooth acceleration and exceptional reliability. While some enthusiasts debate the merits of swapping to a manual transmission, purists agree that the original automatic preserves the car’s authenticity and collector value.

As noted in our previous coverage of the Springtime in Sweden edition, this engine was a testament to Saab’s engineering prowess, with turbocharging technologies that set benchmarks in the late 1980s. The inclusion of a turbo boost gauge in the dashboard highlights Saab’s focus on driver engagement, making every journey a thrilling experience.

A Timeless Interior with Saab’s Signature Touch

The interior of the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo Convertible reflects Saab’s dedication to ergonomics and driver comfort. The heated Buffalo Gray leather front bucket seats are as inviting today as they were in 1988. Complemented by a rear bench in the same premium leather, the cabin strikes a balance between luxury and practicality.

Technological features include:

• A Clarion cassette stereo with a rebuilt graphic equalizer for audiophiles
• Air conditioning for ultimate comfort
• Saab’s iconic VDO instrumentation, including a boost pressure gauge and a 7,000-rpm tachometer
• Cruise control, power windows, and a heated rear window

This Saab’s showroom-quality interior has been immaculately preserved, with just 78 miles added under its current ownership.

A Showroom-Condition Survivor!

What sets this particular Springtime in Sweden Saab apart is its remarkable preservation. Delivered new to a Connecticut dealership, it spent decades as a display vehicle, never driven on the open road. The current owner ensured its survival as a true collector’s piece, with minimal mileage added during dealership transfers.

To prepare the car for its next chapter, the selling dealer performed essential maintenance, including:

• Brake fluid flush
• Replacement of brake hoses
• An oil change

The original factory tires and manufacturer’s literature, including a tube of touch-up paint and anti-theft stickers, remain with the car, enhancing its authenticity and collector appeal.

Enthusiasts Weigh In: To Drive or Preserve?

The auction for this Saab 900 Turbo has sparked intense debate among enthusiasts. Some argue that its untouched condition makes it a candidate for museum preservation, while others insist it should be driven and enjoyed.

One commenter on Bring a Trailer summed it up:
“If I had $50K to spend, it wouldn’t be on a Saab—but if I did, I’d drive it 1,000 miles a year. Meant to be driven.”

Others emphasized the importance of finding an original Saab technician to maintain the car, noting that many specialists from the era have retired. The consensus? Whether driven or displayed, this Saab’s rarity and condition make it a standout in the classic car world.

 The Auction: A Battle for Saab History

With bids already exceeding $50,900 and four days remaining, this auction promises to be a fierce competition among Saab enthusiasts and collectors. Given its unmatched provenance and untouched condition, this car could set a new benchmark for Saab auction results.

The car is being sold without a title, as Connecticut does not issue titles for vehicles of its age. However, it comes with a clean Carfax report and Connecticut registration in the owner’s business name.

Visit the auction listing on Bring a Trailer for more details and to place your bid.

 Why This Saab Matters

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo Convertible Springtime in Sweden Edition isn’t just a car—it’s a symbol of Saab’s innovative spirit and Scandinavian design philosophy. As a time capsule from 1988, it offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. Whether it ends up in a collector’s garage or a museum, this car’s story will continue to inspire admiration for generations to come.

Story update

Unfortunately, despite the offer of almost 60 thousand dollars, the reserved price was not reached at the auction, and you can read about the analysis of the case here.