Turbo Boost for 1999

Turbocharging has long been the norm, rather than the exception with Saab, but the 1999 range of 9-3 models takes yet another step down the path toward a full-turbo model lineup. By adopting a new 2.0-litre Ecopower low-pressure turbo engine in the volume-selling 9-3 S models, the company reinforces the philosophies it has been espousing since introducing its first turbocharged passenger car in 1978 - the Saab 99 three-door Turbo.

The new engine has been designed to exhibit characteristics similar to the 2.3-litre low-pressure turbo used in the 9-5 model. It is a smooth, responsive powerplant that delivers exceptional power at the mid-range engine speeds that are most useful for everyday driving. This makes for spirited overall performance, with easy overtaking on the highway and no-fuss interstate touring, even with a full load of passengers and luggage. At the same time it also means very low exhaust emissions and outstanding fuel economy. Comparing the 2.0-litre turbo engine's power figures with those of the 2.3-litre normally aspirated engine reveals distinct improvements. Power and torque are up, while engine revs required to produce these figures are down (if maximum power and maximum torque - the figure that determines the engine's ability to respond quickly to the accelerator - can be produced at relatively low engine speeds, the powerplant is likely to be relaxed and easy to live with).

The new 2.0-litre turbo produces its maximum power of 113kW at an unstressed 5500rpm, while the maximum torque of 219Nm comes in at a similarly low 3600rpm. These figures compare favourably with the 110kW at 5700rpm and 210Nm at 4300rpm of the normally aspirated 2.3-litre engine that is replaced by the new turbo. The new low-pressure 2.0-litre turbo engine is not the only new powerplant to be introduced for model year 1999. At the top end of the range, and supplementing the familiar 136kW turbo that was introduced with the new-series 900 in 1994, is an optional high-power 2.0-litre turbo developing a muscular 147kW. Available in manual transmission form only, this new engine endows the 9-3 with stunning performance. It is capable of accelerating from rest to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds, or executing a 60-100km/h passing manoeuvre in just 7.7 seconds, yet still returns exceptional fuel economy figures.

With the continuation of the normally aspirated 2.0-litre in the five-door S model, this gives the 9-3 a range of four engine options for 1999 and drives home the point that turbocharging is definitely on Saab's agenda for the future. The engine diversification is accompanied by a number of other revisions to the 9-3 for 1999. These include new gear ratios for manual transmission turbo models, a new body colour - frost grey - and an extra colour for the convertible roof, once again a shade of grey. The interior roof lining of five and three-door 9-3 models has also been modified to further reduce the risk of head injury in an accident through the adoption of additional insulation/padding in the appropriate areas.

For 1999, Saab's luxury 9-5 sedan has also been subjected to a number of subtle but significant upgrades. In the ongoing programme to ensure the highest possible standards of safety, the 9-5 is now fitted with a new seatbelt system that 'softens' the effect of a passenger being thrown forward into the webbing in an accident. This applies at a predetermined load level, and causes the belt to slacken slightly and provides a more gentle restraint of the forward motion of the occupant. This reduces the risk of belt-induced injury, especially if the individual has frail bones.

The 9-5 is now also equipped with the head-thorax side airbag system used in the 9-3. This system is designed to protect the occupant's rib cage and head through an inflation process that initially protects the rib cage, then, through the upwards displacement of gases, inflates to protect the head. The crash sensor triggers the explosive charge in the airbag gas generator, a mere five milliseconds after the impact. The lower section of the airbag inflates in 15 milliseconds, and the upper in 30 milliseconds.

The new systems support the already advanced 'real life' safety design of the 9-5. The car already exhibits stable deformation behaviour through the adoption of wide longitudinal members and the provision of three integrated crash load paths between the front elements and the strong safety cage behind, which protects the occupant survival space from collapsing.
The changes to the 9-5 help maintain Saab's position as a leader in this area of automotive design.