1984 SAAB 900 EMS review from Sweden
"Trouble-maker you'll love"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The engine had a lack of power fault that no mechanic ever could figure out. A few interior lights went over the course of my ownership, the water pump broke and the usual things you have to expect when buying an old car like this. And of course, being a SAAB 900 the brakes were a constant problem.
General comments?
This should have been a powerful car, but since it had engine trouble it never was. I once tested the acceleration against an Audi 80 CC. He was in third gear, I was in first. Starting from 0, he still beat me!
However, the design of the 900 is one of the best I have ever experienced. This was the hatchback model, which made it easy to transport large bulky things like a big screen TV set, without having to go and rent a truck. The interior design was extremely well made, handling was great, the ride was smooth and comfortable and even though the car was in the shop frequently I still miss my old SAAB.
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | She is a stout Scandinavian Queen! |
![]() | Saab 900 1983-1988 is the best car ever made, and the most service friendly I know |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1992 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 1994 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Manual |
| Performance marks | 3/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 160000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 230000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Beetle |
| Date of Entry | 23rd January, 2002 |



