Summer Car Sale: 1986 SAAB 900 Turbo Convertible – Sold?

December 2nd Update – We just confirmed the Craigslist ad for this ride expired and with no replacement listing found, we’re assuming this car sold.  This one may have got away, but if you have your heart set on something similar, email us the details of what you’re looking for or call Rudy directly at (908)295-7330.

When summer concludes, it’s somewhat inevitable the cars used to soak in the warm rays of the sun end up on the classifieds pages when the love affair ends. The convertible is like a fling, in that regard, and probably just as expensive if you buy the wrong one. This 1986 Saab 900Turbo convertible originally listed in October 2020 on Craigslist in Acton, Massachusetts is said to be completely original and has an asking price of $6,900. Shockingly, the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool doesn’t have the classic 900 listed in its pricing guide, but the closest reference there is would be the forebear to the 900, the 99 Turbo that Hagerty pegs at $10,500 for an “Excellent” condition example – which mirrors what 900’s in good condition have been trading hands for.

The Saab 900 convertible is perhaps one of the most recognized imported drop-tops ever made, largely because of its long production run and deep-seated association with seaside locations already popular with Saab loyalists. The 900 convertible was offered in two flavors, turbocharged and naturally aspirated, with the former typically commanding much higher prices on the used car market. The non-turbo 900S can be had for peanuts, respectively, but is akin to buying a Hummer with front-wheel drive. While Hagerty may not have the model in their pricing guide, plenty of auction results will show that high-quality 900 Turbo convertibles sell for strong money very consistently, especially when equipped with a manual transmission.

This example does have the somewhat fun-sapping three-speed automatic, but I’d hardly call it a fatal flaw. The peaky nature of 1980s turbocharged engines can sometimes translate into a more consistent driving experience when paired with the automatic, but brand ethusiasts will also say you neuter a significant portion of the 900’s character when you buy one with two pedals. Personally, I recently purchased a dream car in the form of a Monte Carlo Yellow 900 Turbo, with the automatic – and I’m happy to report that manual conversions are quite easy, relatively speaking. With its clean bodywork and leather seats in great condition, all signs point to this example being loved – but an in-person visit and a pre-purchase inspection will go a long way towards confirming that. Good luck with the purchase if you take this classic 900 Turbo home!

Here’s the seller’s description:

“All original. Stored indoors. Runs Great. No dings or dents. Carfax available. Comes with extras.“

Do you have a Saab 900 Turbo story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!