Rediscover the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo: A Classic Reborn

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo was a high-performance variant of the Saab 900, a compact car produced by the Swedish automaker Saab.

The 900 Turbo was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine that produced 160 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It was available in both three-door hatchback and five-door wagon body styles. The 900 Turbo was known for its performance, handling, and safety features.

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo was a significant car for Saab. It helped to establish Saab’s reputation for building high-performance cars. The 900 Turbo was also a commercial success, helping to boost Saab’s sales in the United States. Today, the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo is considered a classic car and is sought after by collectors.

1988 Saab 900 Turbo

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo was a high-performance variant of the Saab 900, a compact car produced by the Swedish automaker Saab. It was known for its performance, handling, and safety features, and helped to establish Saab’s reputation for building high-performance cars.

Performance: 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds
Handling: Front-wheel drive with a limited-slip differential
Safety: Anti-lock brakes and a driver’s side airbag
Styling: Hatchback or wagon body styles
Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine
Power: 160 horsepower
Torque: 180 lb-ft
Legacy: Considered a classic car and sought after by collectors

Performance

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo’s performance was one of its most impressive features. It could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 7.5 seconds, which was very quick for a car of its time. This performance was due in part to the car’s turbocharged engine, which gave it a significant power boost.

The 900 Turbo’s performance was not just impressive on paper. It was also very noticeable in real-world driving conditions. The car was quick off the line and had plenty of power for passing and merging. This made it a very enjoyable car to drive, especially for enthusiasts.

The 900 Turbo’s performance was also important for safety. The car’s quick acceleration allowed it to get out of dangerous situations quickly. This was especially important in an era when many cars were much slower.

Overall, the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo’s performance was one of its most important features. It made the car fun to drive, safe, and practical.

Handling

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo’s handling was one of its most impressive features. It was one of the first cars to be equipped with a front-wheel drive system with a limited-slip differential, which gave it excellent traction and handling in all weather conditions.

Improved traction: The limited-slip differential helped to improve traction by transferring power to the wheel with the most grip. This was especially beneficial in slippery conditions, such as snow and ice.
Reduced torque steer: The limited-slip differential also helped to reduce torque steer, which is a tendency for a front-wheel drive car to pull to one side under acceleration. This made the 900 Turbo easier to control, especially at high speeds.
Increased cornering ability: The limited-slip differential also helped to increase the 900 Turbo’s cornering ability. This was because it allowed the car to put more power to the outside wheel in a corner, which helped to keep the car from understeering.
Improved safety: The 900 Turbo’s excellent handling made it a very safe car to drive. The car’s ability to grip the road and corner well helped to prevent accidents.

Overall, the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo’s handling was one of its most important features. It made the car fun to drive, safe, and practical.

Safety

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo was one of the first cars to be equipped with both anti-lock brakes (ABS) and a driver’s side airbag, making it one of the safest cars on the road at the time.

Anti-lock brakes

ABS is a safety system that prevents the wheels of a car from locking up during braking. This allows the driver to maintain control of the car and steer around obstacles, even in slippery conditions. ABS was a major advancement in automotive safety, and it has since become a standard feature on all new cars.
Driver’s side airbag

A driver’s side airbag is a safety device that inflates in the event of a collision, providing a cushion between the driver and the dashboard. Airbags have been shown to reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a car accident. The 900 Turbo was one of the first cars to be equipped with a driver’s side airbag, and it has since become a standard feature on all new cars.

The combination of ABS and a driver’s side airbag made the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo one of the safest cars on the road at the time. These safety features helped to protect drivers and passengers in the event of a collision, and they have since become standard features on all new cars.

Styling

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo was available in both hatchback and wagon body styles. This gave buyers the choice between a more sporty and a more practical vehicle.

Hatchback:

The hatchback body style is characterized by a sloping rear window that opens upwards. This design provides a more sporty look and feel, and it also makes it easier to load and unload cargo.
Wagon:

The wagon body style is characterized by a longer roofline and a larger cargo area. This design provides more space for passengers and cargo, making it a more practical choice for families and businesses.

Ultimately, the choice between a hatchback and a wagon body style depends on the buyer’s individual needs and preferences. However, both body styles offer unique advantages, making the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo a versatile and appealing choice.

Engine

The turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine was a major factor in the success of the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo. This engine was based on the Saab H engine, which was first introduced in 1967. However, the turbocharged version of the engine was much more powerful, producing 160 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. This gave the 900 Turbo a significant performance advantage over its competitors.

In addition to its power, the turbocharged engine was also very efficient. This was due in part to the use of a turbocharger, which helped to reduce fuel consumption. As a result, the 900 Turbo was able to achieve excellent fuel economy for a high-performance car.

The turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine was a key component of the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo. It gave the car its impressive performance and fuel economy, which helped to make it a popular choice among enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

Power

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine that produced 160 horsepower. This was a significant amount of power for a car of its size and weight, and it gave the 900 Turbo impressive performance. The car could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 7.5 seconds, and it had a top speed of 130 mph. This made the 900 Turbo one of the fastest cars in its class.

The 900 Turbo’s power was not just about speed. It also gave the car excellent handling and braking. The car’s suspension was tuned to handle the extra power, and the brakes were upgraded to provide more stopping power. This made the 900 Turbo a very safe car to drive, even at high speeds.

The 160 horsepower engine was a key component of the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo. It gave the car its impressive performance, handling, and braking. This made the 900 Turbo a very popular car among enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

Torque

Torque, measured in pound-feet (lb-ft), is a measure of the twisting force produced by an engine. It is an important factor in determining a car’s acceleration and towing capacity. The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo produced 180 lb-ft of torque, which was a significant amount for a car of its size and weight.

The high torque of the 900 Turbo gave it excellent acceleration and towing capacity. The car could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 7.5 seconds, and it could tow up to 2,000 pounds. This made the 900 Turbo a very versatile car that could be used for both everyday driving and occasional towing.

The 180 lb-ft of torque produced by the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo was a key factor in its performance and versatility. It gave the car excellent acceleration and towing capacity, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

Legacy

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo has become a classic car and is sought after by collectors for several reasons. First, it was a very well-built car with excellent performance and handling. Second, it was one of the first cars to be equipped with both anti-lock brakes and a driver’s side airbag, making it a very safe car for its time. Third, it was a relatively rare car, with only about 10,000 units being produced. This rarity has made it even more valuable to collectors.

The 900 Turbo’s legacy as a classic car is also due to its role in popular culture. The car was featured in several movies and TV shows, including “The Saint” and “Miami Vice.” This exposure helped to make the car even more popular, and it has become a symbol of the 1980s.

Today, the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo is considered a classic car and is sought after by collectors. Its combination of performance, safety, and rarity makes it a very desirable car. Collectors are willing to pay a premium for a well-preserved example of this iconic car.

FAQs about the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo

This section addresses frequently asked questions about the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo, providing concise and informative answers to common concerns and misconceptions.

Question 1: What makes the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo a desirable collector’s car?

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo is sought after by collectors for its combination of performance, safety, and rarity. It was a well-built car with excellent handling, one of the first to feature both anti-lock brakes and a driver’s side airbag, and only about 10,000 units were produced.

Question 2: What kind of performance can I expect from a 1988 Saab 900 Turbo?

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine that produced 160 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. This gave the car a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph, making it one of the fastest cars in its class.

Question 3: How safe is a 1988 Saab 900 Turbo?

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo was one of the safest cars on the road at the time. It was equipped with both anti-lock brakes and a driver’s side airbag, which were rare features in the late 1980s. The car also had a strong body structure and excellent handling, which contributed to its overall safety.

Question 4: What are the most common problems associated with the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo?

Like any older car, the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo can experience certain problems over time. Some of the most common issues reported by owners include turbocharger failure, head gasket failure, and oil leaks. However, these problems can often be avoided with proper maintenance and care.

Question 5: Is the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo a good investment?

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo can be a good investment for collectors and enthusiasts. The car’s rarity, performance, and safety features make it a desirable classic car. However, it is important to note that the value of any collector car can fluctuate over time, and it is always advisable to do your research before making an investment.

Question 6: Where can I find more information about the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo?

There are numerous resources available online and in print that can provide more information about the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo. Saab enthusiast forums, classic car magazines, and online databases are all good places to start your research.

Summary

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo was a groundbreaking car that combined performance, safety, and style. It is now considered a classic car and is sought after by collectors. While it may not be the most practical car for everyday use, it is a great choice for enthusiasts who appreciate unique and iconic automobiles.

Transition to the next article section

To learn more about other classic cars from the 1980s, continue reading the next section of this article.

Tips for Maintaining and Enjoying a 1988 Saab 900 Turbo

Whether you are a seasoned collector or a new owner, proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving and enjoying your 1988 Saab 900 Turbo. Here are some tips to help you keep your Saab running smoothly for years to come:

Tip 1: Perform Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for any vehicle, but it is especially important for a classic car like the Saab 900 Turbo. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, which includes regular oil changes, fluid checks, and inspections.

Tip 2: Use High-Quality Parts

When replacing parts on your Saab 900 Turbo, always use high-quality components. This may cost a bit more upfront, but it will save you money in the long run by preventing premature failures. Look for parts that are specifically designed for the Saab 900 Turbo, as aftermarket parts may not fit properly or perform as well.

Tip 3: Find a Good Mechanic

If you are not comfortable working on your Saab 900 Turbo yourself, it is important to find a good mechanic who is familiar with the car. A good mechanic can help you keep your Saab running smoothly and identify any potential problems before they become major issues.

Tip 4: Protect Your Saab from the Elements

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo is a classic car, and as such, it is important to protect it from the elements. If possible, park your Saab in a garage or under a car cover to protect it from rain, snow, and sun damage. Regular washing and waxing will also help to preserve the car’s paint and body.

Tip 5: Drive Your Saab Regularly

Classic cars are meant to be driven, so don’t be afraid to take your Saab 900 Turbo out for a spin regularly. Driving the car will help to keep all of the components in good working order and prevent problems from developing. Just be sure to drive safely and responsibly.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your 1988 Saab 900 Turbo running smoothly and looking its best for years to come.

To learn more about the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo and other classic cars, continue reading the rest of this article.

Conclusion

If you are lucky enough to own a 1988 Saab 900 Turbo, be sure to take good care of it. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help to keep your Saab running smoothly and looking its best for years to come.

Rediscover the 1988 Saab 900 Turbo: A Classic Reborn