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A Nod to Saab’s Iconic Monte Carlo Yellow
Back in August 1997, “Car and Driver” tested a vibrant, eye-catching 1997 Saab 900SE Turbo Convertible, dressed in Monte Carlo Yellow—an iconic color revived to commemorate Saab’s 50th anniversary. Dubbed affectionately as “bumblebee” by loyal Saab enthusiasts, this striking hue first appeared in 1991 on a limited run of 300 vehicles celebrating the brand’s victories at the Monte Carlo Rally in 1962 and 1963.
Notably, the actual rally-winning Saab 96 piloted by Erik Carlsson wore red, but Saab adopted yellow as their contemporary rally color. The bright, attention-grabbing shade did exactly as intended, turning heads wherever it went, from downtown Ann Arbor to scenic routes along the coastline.
Performance: The Dynaflex Exhaust Experience
One standout feature noted by the original testers at “Car and Driver” was the optional $435 Dynaflex exhaust system. This aftermarket enhancement bumped the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine’s horsepower from 185 to 192, while delivering a distinctly raspy yet controlled exhaust note.
Although Saab initially targeted a 10-horsepower gain, the final adjustment prioritized an engaging sound without becoming obnoxious—a decision that resonated positively among drivers. According to Car and Driver’s tests, the convertible managed a commendable 0-to-60 mph sprint in 7.1 seconds. While marginally slower than its four-door sibling due to the extra weight, drivers found the exhaust note satisfying enough to compensate for the negligible performance difference.
Refinement in Driving Dynamics
Significant for the 1997 model year, Saab replaced the cable-based transmission shift linkage with a rod-based system across the entire 900 lineup. This change addressed one of “Car and Driver”’s notable complaints from their long-term 900SE V6 test car, significantly enhancing the precision and tactile feel during gear shifts.
Coupled with improved braking capability, thanks to the larger brakes planned also for the upcoming Saab 9-5 (Project 640), stopping distances improved slightly, showcasing Saab’s commitment to ongoing mechanical refinement. Still, testers highlighted persistent issues, including notable body flex and shudder over uneven surfaces, typical for convertibles of the era but slightly exaggerated here, which Saab enthusiasts have long since accepted as part of the model’s unique character.
Interior and Exterior Enhancements
Aside from mechanical upgrades, Saab offered a few intriguing aesthetic and practical enhancements to celebrate its milestone anniversary. A $275 optional carbon-fiber trim adorned the dashboard and door handles, bringing a modern, sporty look to the cabin without significantly affecting the practicality or luxury feel. The choice of carbon fiber was pragmatic—aiming to minimize costs while aligning with Saab’s environmentally conscious consumer base, a trait deeply embedded in Saab’s brand identity.
Other accessories, such as a $350 interior wind deflector and the optional front and rear spoilers ($225 and $325 respectively), added functional aerodynamic improvements and aesthetic flair. The wind deflector, particularly valuable for convertible owners who frequently drove at highway speeds, significantly reduced backdraft, enhancing comfort during open-top journeys.
Practicality and Everyday Usability
Despite its sporty image and enthusiast-friendly additions, “Car and Driver” highlighted some minor yet persistent usability issues. These included limited footwell space, particularly awkward for drivers using the manual transmission. Specifically, testers noted that clutch operation occasionally resulted in the driver’s shoe rubbing against the wheel well—a minor ergonomic annoyance. Still, these quirks were part of the Saab charm that loyalists have come to accept and even cherish over the years.
On the upside, Saab continued its tradition of practical innovations, ensuring ample space for four passengers and providing a reasonably comfortable ride, making it a family-friendly convertible—a rarity at the time. The car’s practicality remained true to Saab’s roots, offering an alternative to similarly priced sports-oriented convertibles like the Porsche Boxster, which, while dynamically superior, couldn’t accommodate family outings quite as comfortably.
Pricing and Market Positioning: Was It Worth It?
At a price of $44,214 as tested, “Car and Driver” openly questioned the value proposition of the Saab 900SE Turbo Convertible, suggesting buyers could opt instead for a base Porsche Boxster. However, Saab’s target audience was distinct—enthusiasts who valued uniqueness, practicality, and subtle sophistication over outright sports-car performance. Saab successfully cultivated a niche where the premium price was justified not by raw speed but by a distinctive personality, unmatched comfort, and everyday versatility.
Retrospective View: The Saab 900SE Today
Now, nearly three decades later and approximately 15 years after Saab ceased production, the 1997 900SE Turbo Convertible continues to captivate enthusiasts. Its distinctively Swedish charm, unique color, and balanced blend of practicality and performance make it a sought-after classic. While criticisms of body flex and ergonomics remain valid, the enduring appeal of this model proves Saab’s enduring legacy as a manufacturer of distinct, character-rich automobiles.
Today, these convertibles are cherished not only as collectors’ items but also as symbols of a marque whose innovative spirit lives on through dedicated enthusiast communities worldwide.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on “Car and Driver”’s original review, it’s clear the 1997 Saab 900SE Turbo Convertible represented much more than a quirky, colorful convertible. It epitomized Saab’s innovative engineering, practical luxury, and unique style—a blend that continues to resonate deeply with enthusiasts today. As Saab enthusiasts know well, the true value of these cars transcends objective measurements, living instead in their undeniable charm and enduring legacy.
To read the original 1997 review by “Car and Driver”, click here.
