Saab 900 Cabrio 1991

v-deniso

Anyone got any information on these cars as I am thinking of purchasing one.

Have always liked the design as there is nothing like it at all on the roads.

Would like info on the things that need to be looked out for and and potential expensive areas that could come my way.

Its automatic, been well serviced and is the SE model rather than the Turbo. It has 105,000 on the clock and has leather...Asking price €5000

Cheers for the info

peasant

Auto gearboxes are a bit weak, especially when combined with the turbo. On the normally aspirated engine you should be ok...but do an extensive test-drive beforehand, as it is an old fashioned three speed auto box. You might find that a bit slow and frustrating.

Engine mounts are another weak point and difficult to replace.

Don't know whether your car would have it, but the integrated ignition system (the red box over the cylinders) is prone to failure and fairly expensive to replace.

With a "classic" Saab it is good to know a Saab specialist in your area.
They are great cars, when they have been cared for by the right person, but can be a right pain in the neck when neglected or botched.

A good indication for the quality of previous services is if the headlamp wipers are still working ...they're quite fragile and only caring mechanics could be bothered to put them right. (Not all models had them though ..)

Borzoi

v-deniso wrote:

Anyone got any information on these cars as I am thinking of purchasing one.

Have always liked the design as there is nothing like it at all on the roads.

Would like info on the things that need to be looked out for and and potential expensive areas that could come my way.

Its automatic, been well serviced and is the SE model rather than the Turbo. It has 105,000 on the clock and has leather...Asking price €5000

Cheers for the info

Indeed, top quality car - 105K isn't a huge amount of milage - but check if the timing chain has been done - it should be due about now, and it's quite a major job. Engines by and large are very good - some of the weaknesses in the Saab are around the shocks and CV joints

Check the hood for leaks, or ill fitting seals, don't be afraid to pour water on it

Is it a private sale? Do you need someone to look at it for you? I suspect my mechanic would, if you're Dublin based. He's a Saab specilist, drives an old 900 too, so he know's his onions

Gerry

I posted a similar thread a while ago, have a search for it.
Go here , and read the 900 classic buyers guide. Also read the forums.
Take a good bit of time to do this, there is a wealth of information on that site.

The cabrio model, even though it may not be badged as such, may have a light pressure turbo ( lpt ). There won't be a boost guage, so you should look under the bonnet and see if theres a turbo. If there is, make sure theres a good bit of go out of it on a test drive.
I test drove an lpt a while ago, and was pleasantly surprised with the acceleration.

Check if the interior rooflining has started to sag, if so, you might be able to knock a few quid off. Car would have to be perfect for five grand.
Ask the seller for the service history.

I'm looking for a turbo, non cabriolet version at the moment, so if the seller has any of them, please let me know

FX Meister

The mileage looks good, price a bit steep for a 91. You don't see too many as you said and they do stand out as they are a very ugly car.

mike65

They are ugly they also suffer body flex which means its really a "boulevardier" rather than anything you can chuck about the place.

Mike.