The 1987 Saab 9000S arrived on the American market as a calculated move – a less expensive variant trailing the more powerful 9000 Turbo by almost two years. This wasn’t a typical product launch. Most carmakers introduce the base engine first, then add performance versions. Saab did the opposite, launching the Turbo and then scaling back to fill a price gap. This unconventional approach was typical for the Swedish brand.
The 9000S shares the same sleek, aerodynamic body and spacious interior as its Turbo sibling, but with a significant trade-off: power.
While the Turbo boasted a turbocharged 160-horsepower engine and a 140 mph top speed, the 9000S makes do with 125 horsepower. This affects performance noticeably. The Turbo hit 60 mph in 7.7 seconds; the 9000S needs 9.8 seconds, and its top speed drops to 113 mph.
However, the 9000S isn’t without merit. Its interior is exceptionally roomy, classified by the EPA as a “large car,” rivaling even luxury models like the Rolls-Royce Silver Spur. It handles well, thanks to Michelin MXV tires, and delivers a comfortable ride. Still, the absence of a turbocharger leaves the engine feeling flat and unresponsive in everyday driving.
Ultimately, the 9000S makes sense for those prioritizing value over outright performance. But for those who want the full Saab experience, the Turbo remains the superior choice. The extra cost is justified by the Turbo’s undeniable edge in speed, responsiveness, and overall driving enjoyment.
