The Saab 99, produced by the Swedish manufacturer Saab from 1968 to 1984, marked the company's entry into a larger vehicle class beyond the Saab 96. It was manufactured in both Sweden and Finland and is recognized for its innovative features and robust construction.
Двигуни та продуктивність (Engines and Performance):The Saab 99 featured a range of four-cylinder inline engines throughout its production. Initially, it used a Triumph-sourced 1.71 L engine, later upgraded to 1.85 L. Saab eventually developed its own 2.0 L B engine, which first appeared in 1972. The engine was notably mounted longitudinally and tilted at a 45-degree angle.
Various models offered different performance levels:
- Saab 99E 1.85L: Produced 95 hp/DIN, accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 14.6 seconds, and had a top speed of 161.5 km/h.
- Saab 99 EMS: Featured 118 hp/DIN, achieved 0-100 km/h in 11.6 seconds, and had a top speed of 175.6 km/h. The EMS model, introduced in 1972, was a sportier variant, initially available as a two-door, and utilized Bosch D-Jetronic or later K-Jetronic electronic fuel injection.
- Saab 99 Turbo: Introduced in 1978, this version was a significant innovation, being among the first mass-produced turbocharged family cars. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produced 143-145 hp (145 PS/DIN), allowing for a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 196.7 km/h (or 200 km/h in some markets). The turbocharger, designed by Garrett AiResearch, provided strong low-end torque and good drivability.
- Saab 99 Petro: An interesting dual-fuel variant appearing in 1980, running on both gasoline and 67 octane kerosene, producing 85 hp (63.4 kW).
Трансмісія та привід (Transmission and Drive):The Saab 99 primarily featured front-wheel drive (FWD), a configuration that was still relatively uncommon at the time of its introduction but traditional for Saab. Transmission options included 4-speed and 5-speed manuals, as well as a 3-speed Borg-Warner automatic. The engine was fitted in a reverse longitudinal position, placing the clutch towards the front to distribute weight effectively and drive an under-mounted gearbox via a triplex chain. This layout also contributed to reduced torque steer and allowed for a double-wishbone front suspension.
Розміри та кузов (Dimensions and Body):The Saab 99 was available in several body styles, including 2-door and 4-door saloons, and 3-door and 5-door combi coupés (hatchbacks). The 3-door hatchback, in particular, was noted for its large tailgate opening down to the rear bumper, offering excellent access to a spacious loading bay.
Typical dimensions for the Saab 99 include:
- Wheelbase: 2,473 mm (97.4 inches).
- Length: Ranged from approximately 4,340 mm (170.9 inches) to 4,530 mm, depending on the variant and year.
- Width: Around 1,676 mm (66.0 inches) to 1,690 mm.
- Height: Approximately 1,440 mm (56.7 inches) to 1,450 mm.
- Curb Weight: Varied by model, for example, 925 kg (2039 lbs) for an early 1.7L model and 1202 kg (2650 lbs) for a 1976 GL Combi Coupe.
Особливості та інновації (Features and Innovations):The Saab 99 was highly regarded for its practicality, build quality, reliability, and spacious interior. Key characteristics and innovations included:
- Safety: Saab prioritized safety, incorporating features like front and rear crumple zones, an integrated roll cage, side-impact door bars (one of the first production cars to have them), three-point seat belts, and a collapsing steering column. The ignition key was centrally mounted between the front seats to protect the driver's knee in an impact.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: The car offered superb, orthopedically designed, fully adjustable front bucket seats, often with heating as standard on later models. It had a high-capacity heating and ventilation system with separate outlets.
- Visibility: Large windows, slim pillars, and a heavily curved, almost vertical windshield provided great visibility. Headlight wipers were also introduced.
- Design: The 99 had a distinctive, functional design, often described as "odd but strangely characterful." The doors extended down to the sills, helping to prevent trousers from getting dirty when entering or exiting.
- Winter Car Capabilities: It gained a reputation as a reliable winter car due to its excellent handling, front-wheel-drive system, robust heater, and good rustproofing.
The Saab 99 was a significant model, establishing Saab's reputation for producing reliable and innovative cars and laying the groundwork for its successor, the Saab 900.