Long Term Owners: 1992 Saab 900S – SOLD!

July 14, 2022, Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

The classic Saab 900 Turbo in both hatchback and convertible form has been rocketing in value as of late. Gone are the days of a clean SPG being a $5,000 car; count on it costing you at least $15,000 for a decent one. The good news is that if you can live with a naturally-aspirated model, the base 900 hatchback or convertible is still relatively affordable for one in decent shape. This 1992 Saab 900S hatchback, originally listed in June 2022 on Craigslist in Portland, Oregon, has just two owners from new and is said to be in excellent condition with an asking price of $4,250. Comparing that price against the Classic.com model guide shows us that the seller is asking very reasonable money considering the average sale price currently sits above $7,000.

Most of us want the high-performance version of any model we’re considering. It’s only natural: why wouldn’t you want your chosen vintage ride in the most explosive form possible? The trouble is we can sometimes place so much value on it that we overlook the virtues of a nicely-preserved base model all over some fractional differences in 0-60 times. As much as I love my 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth, the out-of-the-box performance doesn’t strike me as being dramatically different than my departed 1991 2.3 sedan with an automatic transmission. Is the Cosworth far more fun to drive? Undoubtedly, so we have to remember that better performance can also translate to more smiles per mile. In the case of a non-turbo 900, I can’t say for sure whether the cost savings are worth it. I’ve owned a 900 Turbo and while the turbo definitely adds some grins to the driving experience, once the boost wears off, it’s still a front-driver, four-cylinder. But is it light-years ahead of an NA car in the “fun” department?

The seller provides this video of their Saab for sale:

The Classic Saab Guy YouTube Channel features this Buyer’s Guide video of what to look for when buying a Saab 900:

The seller’s enthusiasm for his survivor Saab is infectious and could convince you that you’re not missing out on anything by keeping a few grand in your pocket and buying a car like his. The description reports that he bought it from a longtime original owner and that he’s owned the car for the last 16 years. This 900 must be a charmer because no one gives it up easily once it’s in their possession. The seller reports that even with over 200,000 miles, it is one of the nicest 900 he owns and that it still devours highway road trips with ease. Recent maintenance includes replacing the belts, fluids, brakes, and tires, and the cosmetics inside and out suggest it’s had a standing appointment with a detailer. The only reason for the sale is due to the seller relocating overseas and not being able to take the 900 with them. While the allure of a turbocharged model is understandable, there’s a lot to be said for choosing a car that’s clearly been loved and is just oozing good vibes. Throw in the somewhat-rare original paint color of Citrin over a parchment leather interior and you have a very nice classic daily driver that won’t require a ton of expensive maintenance and has already had some of the heavy lifting done.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1992 Saab 900S 3 Door, 5 speed, Citrin Beige with Parchment leather interior.

This is a two-owner car since new. I have had this car for 16 years, bought from the original owner — a doctor and longtime Saab enthusiast. He told me this was the best out of all the Saabs he’d had and now I know why. This has been my favorite out of the 25 or so cars I’ve ever owned and has been really dependable and good to me. Selling only because I’m moving overseas. To a good home only!

209k miles almost all highway. Drives like new. Has been garaged almost all of its life. Recently replaced belts, fluids, brakes, and tires all around. Loves long road trips. Has its quirks, but probably one of the nicer classic 900s out there these days. It looks nice and is really enjoyable to drive.

Here’s a link to a complete video tour of the car including driving:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0Zqgwb1SLE.”

Naturally aspirated survivor: would you choose this clean N/A car over a beater 900 Turbo?