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SAAB 9000

The Saab 9000 is an executive car that was produced by the Swedish company Saab from 1984 to 1998. Representing the company’s foray into the executive car scene, the 9000 remained in production until it was replaced by the Saab 9-5 in late 1999.

Saab designed the 9000 as part of the Type Four platform in conjunction with the Italian automaker Fiat Automobiles. Fiat retailed similar derivative versions as the more basic Fiat Croma, the luxury-themed Lancia Thema, and the sports-oriented Alfa Romeo 164. Unlike the 164, which shares only the chassis, the Croma and Thema are outwardly similar to the 9000. As such, much of the bodywork appeared interchangeable between the 9000, Croma and Thema; for example, the doors. However, because Saab fitted heavier side impact protection they will not fit.[citation needed] Also the front of the Saab is radically different from the Italian siblings due to the much improved crash protection. Only seven different parts are actually interchangeable.[3] The 9000’s body was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and Saab designer Björn Envall.

Despite being shorter overall than the 900, the 9000 had a longer wheelbase and greater interior space, and was the first Saab vehicle imported to the United States to be classed as a “large car” by the EPA.