[Saab_c9000] Saab C9000 SuperSwede's in Australia?

I think that the timeline splits are pretty much universally accepted in Saab enthusiast circles, but yes they're not Saab's own definitions and I bet that GM is even less keen to see distinctions made between model changes introduced since they took over the company.

However, it's a lot easier to distinguish the models using the most common terminology, particularly when chatting amongst other enthusiasts.

But the fact remains, IMHO anyway, that the pre-1993 and the 1993+ 9000's are different in ways that do distinguish them as being seperate build series. They're not a totally different car like the C900's and NG/GM900's, but they are different in body styling, and other areas as well. If it was simply just a body style change, then there would be plenty of contention for saying the two builds of the 9000's were not different enough to be given seperate 'enthusiast titles'.

Regards,

Craig.

Here, here!

By the way, do you know of Mr. Wade from trollhattensaab.net, your fellow Saab Enthusiast also from Australia?

SG

out our web-forums, mailing list, etc.

Can't say this I do know that person, but I could well have met him if he was one of the people at the last SCCA NSW branch event last month...

Craig.

Well, then we'll never agree. I just think it's idiotic to say that 9000CC is a classic car and 9000CS is not. Why not use their Saab names instead of the Classic/NG nonsense.

< snip >

I'm 100% with you here.

The '92-93 model on 9000 was simply a 'facelift' in my view. Nothing significant in the mechanical dept changed for sure. The bodyshape isn't changed much either other than to be a bit sleeker.

In comparison the C900 / NG900 is a clear difference, not least in the chassis and indeed the total body has no relationship whatever to the previous model.

Graham

Yes, even the enthusiast web site

confirmsthat view. Notice that they have two entries for the 900: '900' and 'GM900',but only one entry for the 9000. For the 9000, you find a complete list of MYchanges. The 1992 MY was introduced as follows: Model Year 1992

The most significant change for 1992 was the introduction of the 9000 CS - a five door with a lower bonnet and four headlamps - separate lamps for full and dipped beam. The new rear section had improved safety reinforcements.

Catalytic converters became standard on all Saabs for all markets provided that fuel grades and local rules allowed them. Saab made another industry first with the introduction of CFC-free air conditioning systems.

ABS (Antilock Braking System) was standard on all models for Sweden, Europe (not UK) and the United States. On sale from the Spring of 1992 was the 9000 Griffin - which came equipped with every available option as standard.

That's it! Conclusion: The earlier 9000 are no more 'Classic' than the later models.

Incidentally, the Parker's price guide to used cars available here in the UK also doesn't distinguish between any 9000 model - but it certainly does between the C900 and the GM inspired 900 with the Opel Ascona / Vauxhall Cavalier chassis.

Graham.