SAAB 105

The Saab 900 was originally introduced on 12 May 1978, for the 1979 model year, with sales commencing in the fall of 1978. The first-generation was based on the Saab 99 chassis but featured a longer front end designed to meet U.S. frontal crash regulations and to accommodate turbocharged engines, air conditioning, and other equipment not available in the early 99 models. Production primarily took place in Trollhättan, Sweden, although significant production also occurred at the Valmet plant in Finland, which produced 238,898 base models of the 900, and at the plant in Arlöv, near Malmö.

Like its predecessor, the 900 incorporated unusual design features. These included a longitudinally mounted, 45-degree canted, inline four-cylinder engine installed "backwards," delivering power from the crank at the front. The transmission, technically a transaxle, bolted directly to the bottom of the engine, forming the oil pan with separate oil lubrication. This arrangement transferred power from the front of the engine down and back to the transmission via a set of chain-driven primary gears. The body was developed from the older 99 model, keeping the basic layout but with a new longer front-end for increased space in the engine bay and enhanced crash protection for passengers. Refined over several decades, the 900's double wishbone suspension design provided handling characteristics. The design included a deeply curved windshield to improve driver visibility. The dashboard was curved for easy reach of all controls and featured gauges lit from the front. Controls and gauges were positioned in the dashboard according to frequency of use and/or importance to minimize driver gaze diversion from the road in terms of time and angle. The 900 employed a door design with an undercutting sweep meeting the undercarriage, forming a tight, solid unit when closed.

Main Variants:

• 900 GL: Equipped with a single-carburetor engine, the GL served as the entry-level model in the Saab 900 lineup during its production years.

• 900 Turbo: The high-performance version of the Saab 900, it featured a turbocharged engine for increased power and was available in multiple body styles.

• 900 Aero/SPG: Offered a sporty appearance and enhanced performance capabilities.

• 900 CD: An elongated, executive model of the 900, the CD offered additional rear legroom and various luxury options.

• 900 Convertible: This variant provided an open-top driving experience and was typically equipped with a turbocharged engine and premium features.