In the world of automotive aficionados, there exists a passionate and devoted community, one that cherishes a brand that has been gone for more than a decade. We are talking about Saab, the quirky Swedish carmaker known for its distinct design and innovative engineering. While Saab may no longer be in production, the flame of its legacy burns brighter than ever, thanks to a loyal cadre of enthusiasts who have made it their mission to keep the Saab spirit alive.
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Saab’s Legacy: Born from Jets
To truly understand the fervor surrounding Saab, we must first delve into its history. The name “Saab” is an acronym for Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget, which translates to the Swedish Aeroplane Corporation. This moniker is a testament to the brand’s origins, deeply rooted in the aerospace and defense industry.
The brand’s tagline, “Born from Jets,” captures the essence of Saab’s design philosophy, where aero streamlining was seamlessly integrated into their postwar automobile models. This approach not only distinguished Saab but also resonated with those who sought performance and innovation in their vehicles.
One pivotal moment in Saab’s history was the introduction of the Saab 900 Turbo in 1979. This iconic model firmly established Saab as a performance-oriented automaker. It garnered a dedicated following, including college professors who had a penchant for both academia and racing gloves.
In 1989, General Motors recognized the potential in Saab and invested $600 million in the company. This financial boost led to the creation of a more luxurious version of the Saab 900 in 1994. While some saw this as a turning point, the New Generation 900s had their own set of virtues. GM later acquired the entire company in 2000, resulting in a fusion of Saab’s unique character with GM’s mass-produced components.
The Demise of Saab and the Ardent Enthusiasts
The 21st century brought challenges for Saab, leading to its eventual demise in 2011. Victor Muller, then the company’s chairman, embarked on a desperate quest for funding to salvage the brand. He remarked on the profound shift in responsibility, noting that the fate of Saab had transitioned from a personal endeavor to a corporate undertaking, affecting thousands of lives.
As Saab’s production ceased, a loyal group of enthusiasts emerged, determined to keep the legacy alive. They recognized that the best way to honor Saab’s heritage was to preserve and cherish the cars that bore the brand’s emblem.
The Saab Renaissance: A Personal Journey
For many, the journey with Saab begins with the purchase of a vehicle that encapsulates the brand’s unique character. Whether it’s a classic 900 convertible with features like a five-CD changer, heated leather seats, and ABS brakes, or a 1991 900 Turbo convertible, the bond between owner and car is undeniable.
One Saab owner, Scott Paterson, founded Saabnet, an online community dedicated to connecting Saab enthusiasts. What began as a mailing list of 100 Saab owners evolved into a thriving online resource that continues to serve a million Saab enthusiasts. The unwavering loyalty to the brand is evident in the dedication of Saabnet’s members, who are committed to preserving their beloved cars.
The allure of Saab is not limited to the United States. A young enthusiast in Belgium, known as “Memphis,” has embarked on an epic restoration of a Saab 900, garnering a substantial following on YouTube. This demonstrates that Saab’s charm transcends borders and generations.
A Saab Community That Thrives
The Saab community is as diverse as the cars themselves, with enthusiasts from various backgrounds coming together to celebrate their shared passion. These devotees treasure Saabs not just as vehicles but as pieces of art, as seen in the collection of Saab-branded memorabilia, including Swiss Army knives, cigarette lighters, and more.
There are individuals like Rich Kitchener, who operates an independent Saab specialist shop in Delaware, and Bill Jacobson, who runs “the oldest independent SAAB specialist” shop in Delaware. These experts possess rare Saab models and a wealth of knowledge about these unique vehicles. Their commitment to the brand ensures that even the rarest Saabs receive the care they deserve.
Saab’s Legacy Lives On
Saab’s flame continues to burn brightly in the hearts of its ardent enthusiasts. Their dedication to preserving these iconic cars, along with the rise of younger buyers showing interest in classic Saabs, is a testament to the brand’s enduring appeal. The Saab community, bolstered by online forums and social media groups, stands as a testament to the timeless charm and innovation that these vehicles embody.
In the world of automobiles, Saab may have taken its final bow, but its legacy lives on in the passionate souls who keep the spirit of “Born from Jets” alive. The Saab community is not just about cars; it’s a celebration of art, engineering, and unwavering loyalty to a brand that remains a symbol of innovation and individuality.
I love my 91 900 convertible, but I also had a 9000 hardtop that I put over 400,000 miles on before the transmission blew.
JUST ACQUIRED TWO 9000’S. 91 AND 92 ONE FOR PARTS, THE OTHER JUST NEEDS A MAF SENSOR. BEEN SITTING FOR YEARS. FLORIDA CARS. WHAT ARE THEY WORTH?
Made in Saab-Valmet plant in Uusikaupunki Finland where it was also developed.
Since well before the first turbos, the “Saab Underground” has been a major supporting act for a small manufacturer who’s dealers, sometimes, didn’t support the brand well. Years after it’s demise, this owner enthusiasm continues to keep the cars on the road, and the brand alive, today. With a level of loyalty among it’s owners that any manufacturer would die for, it’s a shame how GM mis-managed the brand, and squandered it’s value!
To Rick Comes: You hit it right on the nose! I devoted most of my life to Saab, as did you. At least 2 of my 5 kids are carrying on the flag. One of them has a 94 and an 09 awd, and will some day get my Sonett.
Model 90 was invented and produced here using the back of a 900 sedan and the front section of a 99 that was phased out of production. Also 99 and 900 CD or Finlandia executive limos in small production numbers. Here the last convertible rolling out of Uusikaupunki plant as GM moved the production of 93NG models to Austria.