Saab 900 DTM Revival: From 3D Dream to Reality

In the world of automotive enthusiasts, there’s always room for dreams to become reality. Recently, the Saab 900 Turbo, an iconic car from the late ’80s and early ’90s, has captured the imagination of Saab aficionados once again.

This revival project is being spearheaded by the visionary behind the Instagram account Saabjörn, an individual with a deep passion for these Swedish classics. The inspiration for this project stems from the creative mind of Andreas Richter, a digital designer hailing from Berlin, Germany. Richter’s 3D renderings have breathed new life into the Saab 900 DTM Turbo, envisioning it as if it had participated in the legendary German Touring Car Championship (DTM).

Additionally, the design team drew inspiration from the BMW M3 E30, an icon of the late ’80s and early ’90s super touring car era. The goal is clear: to bring this dream Saab 900 to life. According to Saabjörn, work on the chassis, suspension, and more is set to commence soon, with the anticipated unveiling of this remarkable automobile by the end of 2024.

 

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Saab’s Turbo Legacy

The Saab 900 Turbo carries with it a rich heritage. Saab introduced its turbocharger technology in 1977, initially on the Saab 99 Turbo, which served as the basis for the later Saab 900 Turbo models. The engine, originally known as the B engine, evolved into the H engine in 1981, boasting remarkable durability and reaching up to 185 horsepower. Saab employed Bosch’s K-Jetronic continuous injection system in the 8-valve turbocharged versions, while the 16-valve variants utilized Bosch LH and Lucas Automotive’s electronic injection systems.

Special Editions and Performance

Among the special editions developed during the Saab 900’s production, one standout was the Saab 900 Turbo Enduro, assembled by Saab Australia in a limited run of just 12 units.

This version featured pronounced fender flares, additional dashboard instruments (including oil pressure and battery current loss gauges), enhanced suspension, and larger wheels. To boost performance, the wastegate was set at 1.2 bar, and water injection was included as standard.

The Resurgence: Saabjörn’s Vision

The Instagram account Saabjörn has unveiled stunning 3D renderings of a Saab 900 Turbo reimagined as if it had a history in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM). This transformation pays homage to the golden era of super touring cars when they truly resembled the “sports car of dad,” boasting just the right amount of body kit and aerodynamics to flex their muscles.

This ambitious Saab 900 project aims to turn this vision into reality. With plans to begin work on the chassis, suspension, and more, Saabjörn is on track to present the world with this remarkable creation by the end of 2024.

A Look Back at Andreas Richter’s Past Work

Four years ago, Andreas Richter caught our attention with his unique approach to visual graphic tuning of automobiles. His previous work on the Saab 900, dubbed the “Eurozoku” style, brought a fresh perspective to this iconic car. Richter’s vision incorporated elements of the European version of the Japanese Bosozoku style, featuring a pronounced chin spoiler, bold fender flares, and a racing diffuser at the rear. Notably, the car deviated from traditional designs with the inclusion of LED lights, embracing a cyberpunk theme.

The Saab 900: A Retro Icon

The Saab 900, initially introduced in 1978, remained in production until 1993, embodying a truly retro aesthetic. Saab, a company with roots in aviation, infused its cars with unique quirks and innovations. They were pioneers in mainstream turbocharging, revolutionizing the automotive industry. Saab also prioritized safety, implementing features like a relocated ignition key and a collapsible steering column.

The Decline and Hope

Unfortunately, like many beloved brands, Saab’s fate took a downturn when it fell under the ownership of major corporations. After being acquired by GM during a prosperous era, Saab eventually changed hands to a Chinese venture when financial troubles loomed.

Resurrecting Saab’s Legacy with Passion and Innovation

The Saab 900 Turbo revival project led by Saabjörn and inspired by Andreas Richter’s creative genius is a testament to the enduring allure of classic automobiles. As the project progresses, we eagerly anticipate the transformation of this iconic car into a reality that pays homage to its heritage while embracing the spirit of innovation and creative design. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting journey, with the grand unveiling scheduled for the end of 2024. The Saab 900 Turbo is poised to captivate a new generation of enthusiasts while rekindling the passion of long-time admirers.