SAAB developed the 16v engine but it took a British designer, Geoff Wardle, to gift enthusiasts the iconic ‘Aero’ bodykit that transformed the T16S into one of 80s motoring’s true icons.
Where the earlier 99 Turbo was quick but suffered turbo lag, the new car offered smoother power delivery. At the time, SAAB claimed the car’s 175bhp was the most that could be safely delivered through the front wheels. As tyre-scrabbling owners could attest, they were probably right.
Early ‘Flat Nose’ T16S cars are now exceptionally rare. Especially so with the mere 73,000 miles of this car - barely run in by SAAB standards. It has been stored for most of the last 20 years and recently recommissioned for sale.
Finished in classic red with colour coded bumpers and complementary Colorado red leather interior, this highly original car is a real find for enthusiasts.
A long, advisory-free MOT to October 2024 provides reassurance about the condition and structure. This is a very original and solid 900. There is scope to improve the cosmetics, but perhaps not before jumping in and enjoying it.
The History and Paperwork
First registered 3rd December 1985
Four registered keepers
Log book included
Unfortunately the car’s history was lost by the previous keeper
The vendor is in contact with the Owners Club to determine some history
Largely stored for the last 20 years
Displayed mileage is believed to be accurate by seller
Recent recommission including full service (fluids, belts & plugs) and new battery
MOT to 16th October 2024 without advisories and 72,997 miles sghowing
Now showing 73,107 miles
The Condition
Classic red paintwork in good order appearing original with some small marks
Straight bodywork with well kept and clean panels
Fitted with the factory Aero body kit with colour coded red bumpers front and rear
Body appears in smart condition for its age with generally unfaded paint colour
Underside in good order with solid floorpans and sills
No MOT structural advisories
Age-related scuffs present, but no damage or deep scratches
Body lines appear free from notable defects such as no sag on the doors
Colorado red leather interior with light marks including small tear in rear of driver's seat
Some wear and light cracks on the leather, but retains its deep foamed shape and colour
Original carpets in fine fettle
Slight sag in the headliner which is typical of model
Minimal wear on dash, steering wheel, and gear knob
Dashboard fitted with later or optional wood veneer finish
Door cards appear in smart condition
All dials functioning properly
Small blister on rear wing near tailgate and light scratches in parts
Steel sliding electric sunroof
Boot struts need replacing
Aftermarket Kenwood stereo fitted
Good dash top with no cracks visible in photographs
Classic three-spoke Aero alloy wheels
The Mechanics
1,985cc B202 16v SAAB engine developing 175bhp
5spd manual gearbox
Rare flat nose model with a full pressure turbo
Recently fitted exhaust with upgraded twin exit pipes
The vendor informs us that the car starts first time
We are told that the turbo kicks in as it should with plenty of power and good mpg
No knocks, excessive smoking or leaks according to seller
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Whilst ****Car & Classic check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and so you are strongly advised to obtain a full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
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Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
More about buying with us
1985 Saab 900 Turbo 3 Dohc 16 T16S
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