Saab 9000

The 9000, an executive car made by Saab, was released in 1985. It was replaced by the Saab 9-5 in the fall of 1998 (for the 1999 model year).

The Type Four chassis, upon which the 9000 was based, was shared with the Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema and the Alfa Romeo 164. The Fiat and Lancia looked much like the Saab, but the Alfa Romeo only shared the chassis. Because they were very similar, many parts can be exchanged between the four cars regardless of brand. For example, the doors from the Fiat Croma fit directly on the 9000, but are lighter, due to less side impact protection. The windshield from the Croma can also be used on the 9000. This type of windshield gives a safe driver visibility.

The design was by Giorgetto Giugiaro.

Later year models actually achieved better fuel economy at higher speeds than lower ones due to the combined effects of the front airdam and rear spoiler. This was especially true of the hatchback CSE model vehicles.

The original 9000 was a 5-door hatchback. A 4-door sedan version was later added (the 1988 CD) and, in 1992, the hatchback appearance was modified and modernized, in the CS version.