1978 Saab 99 Turbo
Average asking price*: $9,700
Collector status: Buy and hold
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Saab was always a company that believed in doing things differently—not for the sake of being unique, but for what was sensible. It therefore wasn’t much of a surprise when they were the first European automaker to bring turbocharging to the family car. Making its world debut at the Frankfurt auto show debut in September 1977, the 99 Turbo instantly became one of the most emblematic cars in Saab’s history. It used the four-cylinder 2.0L engine from the stalwart 99E/EMS, but with the Garret AiResearch turbocharger, put out 145 hp (135 in US trim), which was equal to that of the Triumph V8 that Saab had briefly considered for the 99. Torque was increased dramatically compared to the non-turbo 2.0L (174 ft-lb vs. 119). Despite mostly understated exterior colors (Black, Cardinal Red, Grey, and Silver), the 99 Turbo was immediately recognizable by the specific “Inca” alloy wheels, as well as a front air dam and a unique ducktail spoiler at the base of the rear window (the 99 Turbo was only offered as the Combi Coupé body style in the US).

Driving a 99 Turbo is the kind of unbridled exhilaration that only an early non-intercooler turbocharger can offer (not unlike the early 911 Turbos). Abundant turbo lag is followed very quickly by neck-snapping acceleration. There’s so much thrust in fact that we’re thankful for having the weight of the motor over the driving wheels. Gearbox is only a 4-speed but given the higher revs needed for optimal boost, this doesn’t affect the car’s performance. Braking is exceptional. Steering is typical front-drive understeer but a little bit of practice with nipping the turbo on exit keeps the car well balanced. It’s a car that invites interplay and that is exactly what make it so infectious once that relationship has been forged. Seats don’t offer much side support, but are typical Saab ergonomic and covered in a high-quality a velour that provides additional grip in hard cornering.

The 99 Turbo was only offered in the United States during the 1978 model year and only 4,233 were imported (plus 50 of the 100 press cars built at the end of 1977). Of those, many have been abandoned due to lack of proper maintenance or care of the non-intercooler turbo motor. Others have succumbed to rust. Finding a well-sorted, well-cared-for 99 Turbo will be challenging but regular checks of forums and classifieds like saabnet will yield an appreciating and appreciated piece of automotive history.