Since the sad demise of Saab, its cars have ignited fresh interest as practical classics. Safe, spacious and reliable, they do the ‘boring’ stuff very well, giving owners plenty of scope to simply enjoy them.
This 900 SE Turbo, for example, has 125,000 miles on its odometer. But you’d trust it to manage another 200,000 miles – more than the lifespan of most engines from new – with careful maintenance.
Indeed, the Low Pressure Turbo (LPT) engine is one of the 900 SE Turbo’s great assets, also serving up lively performance. Power builds steadily through the rev range, with this example’s manual gearbox adding some interaction to the driving experience.
Going for a Ruby
The Saab’s grey velour interior is in fantastic condition for a 30-year-old car, and comes with a period-correct Sony radio and boot-mounted CD changer. Minor wear on the common points of contact is evident, but would you want it any other way?
The Ruby Red metallic paintwork is similarly patinated in its appearance, complementing streamlined, air-craft-inspired styling that has aged remarkably well.
From the front-hinged bonnet to the rubber rear spoiler, this car is dripping with simple, Swedish charm. It has character from every angle.
An everyday classic
The great condition of this example makes it a budding candidate for careful restoration, or simply as a usable everyday classic.
One factor must be taken into account when considering this Saab as a prospective project: a Category S insurance loss in March 2021. Looking at the photos in the listing, however, it seems the damage was not particularly significant. And the Cat S status of this example may mean a lower-than-typical asking price.
Car & Classic’s auction for the 1993 Saab 900 SE Turbo, in association with Retro Motor, is now live and runs until 2 August 2023. When bidding closes, the car is expected to fetch between £5,000 and £10,000.
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