Saab enthusiasts worldwide have long held the 900 SPG (Special Performance Group) in high regard. A true icon of Swedish engineering and design, the SPG stands apart as one of the most coveted Saab models ever produced.
Known as the 900 Aero in Europe, this high-performance variant of the standard 900 series encapsulates everything that made Saab vehicles unique: advanced safety, turbocharged power, and a fighter-jet-inspired driving experience. And now, one pristine example of the 1986 Saab 900 SPG is listed for sale by Hyman Ltd., priced at a jaw-dropping $83,500—making it the most expensive Saab currently available in the United States.
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What Makes the Saab 900 SPG Special?
The Saab 900 SPG is not your average Saab 900. Introduced in 1984, the SPG was designed to elevate the 900’s already impressive performance credentials.
Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 160 horsepower, the SPG delivered brisk acceleration and dynamic handling. But it wasn’t just the engine that set the SPG apart.
- Sport-Tuned Suspension: The SPG featured stiffer springs and shocks for better handling and reduced body roll.
- Aerodynamic Enhancements: A lower body kit, including front and rear spoilers, side skirts, and unique three-spoke alloy wheels, improved stability at higher speeds.
- Premium Interior: Inside, drivers were treated to sport seats, premium materials, and upgraded stereo systems.
- Safety Innovation: Saab’s legendary safety features—crumple zones, reinforced safety cages, and side-impact protection—were standard, ensuring peace of mind alongside thrilling performance.
The SPG’s combination of performance, safety, and style made it a standout in the 1980s and a collector’s dream today. With only a limited number produced, surviving examples are becoming increasingly rare, and their value continues to climb.
Spotlight on Hyman Ltd.’s 1986 Saab 900 SPG
Hyman Ltd., a renowned dealership specializing in classic and collectible cars, is offering a meticulously preserved 1986 Saab 900 SPG. This example is nothing short of exceptional, showcasing its original Edwardian Gray paint and a range of recently refreshed components. Here’s what makes this particular SPG worth its eye-watering price tag:
Original Paint and Aerodynamic Styling
The Edwardian Gray exterior—a signature color for the SPG—remains in pristine condition. The factory-applied paint has been meticulously maintained, showing no signs of fading or repainting. The aerodynamic body kit, including the front bumper with factory fog lights and side skirts, is intact and in excellent condition, highlighting the car’s sporty pedigree.
Immaculate Interior
The interior features Scottish Bridge of Weir leather-trimmed seats in gray, with only minor wear on the driver’s seat bolster—a testament to the car’s low mileage and careful ownership. The premium stereo system has been upgraded, but the original unit is included in the sale, offering flexibility for purists.
Mechanical Excellence
Mechanically, this SPG is as impressive as its aesthetics. The car has undergone extensive maintenance within the last 1,000 miles, including:
- A new clutch
- Refinished wheels
- A recovered headliner
- New power steering rack
- Fresh brake pads and rotors
- Engine and transmission mount replacements
These updates ensure that the car drives as Saab engineers intended, offering both reliability and performance.
Why $83,500?
While $83,500 is a hefty price for any classic car, the value of this Saab 900 SPG lies in its rarity, condition, and provenance. With only 60,000 miles on the odometer and a history of meticulous care, this car represents the pinnacle of collectible Saabs. Additionally, the fact that this vehicle has remained within a single family for its first two owners adds an extra layer of desirability for collectors.
The SPG’s appeal extends beyond Saab enthusiasts. Its innovative design and advanced engineering make it a noteworthy piece of automotive history. In today’s market, where classic cars with unique stories and pristine conditions are highly sought after, the $83,500 price tag reflects the car’s significance.
A Legacy of Innovation
Saab’s reputation for blending performance with practicality and safety is perfectly encapsulated in the 900 SPG. The under-mounted transmission, double wishbone suspension, and turbocharged powertrain all demonstrate Saab’s commitment to engineering excellence. These innovations, paired with the company’s focus on safety—a rarity in the 1980s—make the SPG a car that was ahead of its time.
The Future of the Saab 900 SPG
As the years pass, surviving Saab 900 SPG models will only become rarer and more valuable. Enthusiasts and collectors who recognize the significance of this iconic vehicle are willing to pay a premium to own a piece of Saab’s history. Hyman Ltd.’s example, with its impeccable condition and comprehensive maintenance history, sets a new benchmark for what these cars can achieve on the market.
Final Thoughts
The 1986 Saab 900 SPG listed by Hyman Ltd. is more than just a car; it’s a testament to Saab’s legacy of innovation and performance. With its $83,500 price tag, this SPG may not be for everyone, but for the discerning collector, it represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own the ultimate expression of Swedish automotive engineering.
For more details, visit Hyman Ltd.’s official listing and explore SaabPlanet’s SPG Registry for a deeper dive into the history and rarity of these remarkable vehicles.
