SAAB News

SPG 40th Anniversary: Four Decades of the SAAB 900 Turbo 16S/SPG

SPG 40th Anniversary: Exploring the Enduring Legacy of the SAAB 900 Turbo 16S/SPG

Matt Searle's 'ICON' alongside a classic SAAB 900 Turbo 16S/SPG, marking 40 years of automotive excellence.Matt Searle's 'ICON' alongside a classic SAAB 900 Turbo 16S/SPG, marking 40 years of automotive excellence.

Introduction: A Legacy Celebrated

The SAAB 900 Turbo 16S/SPG, an emblem of innovation and Swedish engineering, marks its 40th anniversary in 2024 for the UK version, and 2025 for the USA Special Performance Group (SPG) version.

This model not only captivated car enthusiasts with its debut but also continued to be a beacon of performance and style. As SAAB enthusiasts gear up to celebrate this milestone, the excitement is augmented by the release of “ICON,” a definitive book by Matt Searle detailing the illustrious history of this iconic model.

Continue reading after the ad

The Genesis of the SAAB 900 SPG

The SAAB 900 SPG, known for its distinctive aerodynamic design and turbocharged power, was first showcased at the 1984 British Motor Show, capturing the hearts of many. This model was more than a car; it was a testament to SAAB’s commitment to luxury and performance. The SPG version, introduced to the American market as a high-performance variant, featured enhancements that made it a favorite among sports car enthusiasts.

“ICON”: Chronicling a Masterpiece

Matt Searle’s “ICON” delves deep into the origins, development, and cultural impact of the SAAB 900 Turbo 16S/SPG. Initially released for the UK market, the book became an instant classic among SAAB enthusiasts. Given the profound impact and the persistent demand from American fans, Searle has announced an updated edition that includes the much-celebrated USA SPG version. This upcoming edition promises to bridge the narrative between two continents with shared admiration for this SAAB model.

The Drive Behind the New Edition

The decision to update “ICON” was driven by enthusiastic feedback and demand from across the Atlantic. SAAB enthusiasts in the USA expressed a deep interest in a version that speaks directly to the American iteration of the SPG. In response, Searle has embarked on enhancing the book to include detailed chapters on the USA SPG, ensuring that the narrative is as comprehensive as it is engaging.

Continue reading after the ad

Securing Your Copy of “ICON”

To ensure the publication of the updated version of “ICON,” a pre-order portal has been established. Enthusiasts are encouraged to secure their copies by visiting Matt’s website. With each pre-order priced at approximately 32.00 USD plus shipping, this book is not just a purchase but an investment in preserving the legacy of the SAAB 900 SPG. Additionally, a detailed video showcasing the book and its features is available on the website, providing potential buyers with a sneak peek into the wealth of information contained within.

Joining the Celebration: Group Orders and Historical Participation

As part of the 40th-anniversary celebrations, Saabnet.com will announce a group order opportunity for the USA version of “ICON.” This initiative not only makes the book more accessible but also includes an exclusive chance for USA SPG owners to participate in a historic commemorative event next year. This event promises to be a landmark celebration, further solidifying the cultural and historical significance of the SAAB 900 SPG in the automotive world.

Behind the Scenes with “ICON”

For those intrigued by the making of this landmark publication, a behind-the-scenes video is available featuring “Morty,” a SAAB 900 Turbo 16 S. This video provides an intimate look at the creative process behind “ICON” and highlights the meticulous research and passion that went into creating a book worthy of the SAAB legacy.

Continue reading after the ad

Conclusion: A Timeless Icon

As we approach the 40th anniversary of the SAAB 900 Turbo 16S/SPG, it is clear that this model is more than just a vehicle; it is a symbol of enduring design and performance. Through initiatives like Matt Searle’s “ICON,” enthusiasts around the world are offered a chance to reconnect with a pivotal chapter in automotive history, ensuring that the legacy of the SAAB 900 SPG continues to inspire for generations to come.

Goran Aničić
the authorGoran Aničić
For over 15 years, Goran Aničić has been passionately focused on Saab automobiles and everything related to them. His initial encounter with Saab cars took place back in 2003 when the first Saab 9-3 and sedan version were introduced. At that moment, he was captivated by the car's Scandinavian design logic and top-notch engineering, and everything that followed stemmed from that first encounter. Later on, through his work at the editorial team of the Serbian automotive magazines "Autostart" and later "AutoBild," he had the opportunity to engage more closely with Saab vehicles. In 2008, he tested the latest Saab cars of that time, such as the Saab 9-3 TTiD Aero and Saab 9-3 Turbo X. In 2010, as the sole blogger from the region, he participated in the Saab 9-5ng presentation in Trollhättan, Sweden. Alongside journalists from around the world, he got a firsthand experience of the pinnacle of technological offerings from Saab at that time. Currently, Goran owns two Saabs: a 2008 Saab 9-3 Vector Sportcombi with a manual transmission, and a Saab 9-3 Aero Griffin Sport Sedan from the last generation, which rolled off the production line in Trollhättan in December 2011.

Leave a Reply