Saab Cars: Born From Jets

Executive Summary about Saab 9 5 Review by Matthew Keegan

Saab 9 5 Review

The latest marketing campaign from Saab cars traces the automaker’s origins back to the days to when the company was formed from a Swedish aircraft maker. One ad mentions that 16 aircraft engineers designed the first cars, which were based heavily on aerodynamic aircraft design. What isn’t mentioned is that the company that built its first automobiles in 1949 is now part of General Motors, the largest automaker in the world. The Saab jet division is separate, still owned by the Swedes. Let’s take a look at Saab then and at Saab now.

After observing several ads about Saab, I decided to conduct a little research into the company. Saab, itself, got started in 1937 just before the outbreak of the Second World War when reconnaissance aircraft were built for the Swedish Air Force. On the air carrier side of the house, high performing Saab regional jets found a market in the US and throughout the world.

In 1949, the first Saab 92 rolled off of the assembly line, beginning a lengthy history of producing high quality and uniquely engineered cars. Indeed, the original Saabs incorporated an aerodynamic design to lessen wind drag, resulting in higher fuel economy for drivers. Beyond making economical cars, Saab - much like Volvo - began to produce cars that were truly safe and innovative.

Saab 9-5 - Keep Your Ride Running Great!

Executive Summary about Saab 9 5 Review by Matthew Keegan

As Saab continues its lengthy transition from being under GM control back to Scandinavian oversight, the Saab brand remains in a state of flux. Long loyal Saab owners have been given the assurance that their cars will continue to be supported with car parts, warranties and service available without interruption. This is good news for still another reason - Saab used car prices have stabilized. With car values remaining strong, owners know that their investment will not be going to waste. Indeed, classic Saab owners will continue to see a strong price point for their cars with the rarest models fetching a premium amount at auction.

A Competitive Market For Saab

The Saab 9-5 has had mixed success in the competitive executive car market, going up against the likes of the Volkswagen Passat, Mercedes C-Class, BMW 3-Series and the Volvo V70. 9-5 models have been powered by a number of different engine choices including diesel 1.9L I4 and 3.0L V6 powerplants in addition to several gasoline models including 2.0L and 2.3L I4 engines and a 3.0L V6. These engines have been paired with a variety of four- and five-speed automatic transmissions with a five-speed manual transmission also available.

Engine Sludge Issue Resolved

Subsequent models from the 2004 model year on have not experienced this problem. If you missed the recall, then you need to contact your Saab dealer to see if your car is still covered. Besides the engine problem, there aren’t any other glaring issues that 9-5 owners should have with their cars.