Best Car Reviews - 1986 Saab 900

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Introduction

The 1986 Saab 900 is a distinctive compact car for drivers who value Scandinavian character, practical hatchback versatility, and an engaging manual-driving experience. This front-wheel-drive model introduced the naturally aspirated 16-valve version of Saab’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine in North America, giving the classic 900 shape a more modern engine option while retaining its aircraft-inspired personality.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1986 Saab 900 has the unmistakable profile that made the original 900 a design icon: a long, sloping bonnet, upright glasshouse, broad C-pillars, and a practical rear hatch. At roughly 186.6 inches long in three-door form, it is compact by modern standards but feels substantial. The 16-valve update was chiefly mechanical rather than a wholesale styling redesign, so it retained the recognisable, functional styling of earlier 900s.

Classic three-door hatchback, sedan, and coupe body styles depending on trim and market.
Large rear hatch on hatchback models for unusually useful cargo access.
Protective bumpers and a tall, highly visible driving position.
Available power mirrors, sunroof, alloy wheels, and fog lamps on better-equipped versions.

Interior and Comfort

The 900’s cabin is driver-focused, with a wraparound dashboard, clear major controls, and an ignition switch located between the front seats. Materials feel durable rather than luxurious, but the seats are widely appreciated for long-distance comfort and support. Hatchback models are especially practical, while rear-seat room is best considered adequate rather than generous.

Supportive front bucket seats with durable cloth upholstery on many versions.
Driver-oriented dashboard and distinctive console-mounted ignition location.
Useful hatchback cargo area and folding rear seat.
Available power windows, central locking, air conditioning, and leather upholstery depending on specification.

Performance and Handling

This configuration uses a front-mounted, naturally aspirated 2.0-litre DOHC 16-valve inline-four with front-wheel drive and a five-speed manual transmission. The 900S version was rated at 125 horsepower, and a period road test recorded 0-60 mph in 10.0 seconds. Handling is secure and characterful, though the long nose, front-heavy layout, and older steering technology make it feel very different from a modern compact car. The supplied fuel-consumption figure is 15.66 L/100 km; real-world economy varies greatly with condition, driving style, and exact trim.

2.0-litre naturally aspirated 16-valve four-cylinder engine.
125 horsepower for the 900S specification.
Five-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive.
Period-tested 0-60 mph acceleration of 10.0 seconds for the 900S hatchback.
Supplied fuel-consumption figure: 15.66 L/100 km.

Technology and Connectivity

Technology in the 1986 Saab 900 is analogue and purpose-led. It has no modern touchscreen, Bluetooth, navigation, USB connection, or driver-assistance suite, but its controls and instrumentation were thoughtfully arranged for the era. Audio equipment ranged from basic AM/FM radio to upgraded stereo systems, while better trims could include convenience features such as power accessories and an electric sunroof.

AM/FM radio was available, with upgraded audio equipment on some trims.
Clear analogue gauges and straightforward physical controls.
Available power windows, power mirrors, and central locking.
No factory smartphone integration, navigation, or contemporary driver-assistance technology.

Safety Features

The Saab 900 was engineered in an era when Saab placed strong emphasis on occupant protection, visibility, and robust body construction. However, buyers should judge it by 1986 standards: modern airbags, electronic stability control, rear-view cameras, and advanced emergency braking were not part of this model’s equipment. A verified modern crash-test rating is not available for this vehicle.

Three-point seat belts and head restraints.
Strong passenger-cell-focused body design for its period.
Excellent outward visibility from the tall glasshouse.
Front disc brakes and conventional hydraulic braking system.
No verified modern crash-test score, airbags, stability control, or automatic emergency braking.

Pricing and Variants

When new, the 1986 Saab 900 range started at approximately $12,591 USD for a basic hatchback and reached about $25,176 USD for a Turbo Convertible. The naturally aspirated 900S hatchback was priced around $16,095 USD before options. Variants included hatchback, sedan, coupe, Turbo, and Convertible models. Against compact-era rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI, BMW 3 Series, Audi 4000, and Volvo 240, the Saab stood out for hatchback practicality, safety-minded design, and unconventional style rather than low purchase price or simple servicing.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Distinctive, enduring Scandinavian design.
Practical hatchback layout with strong cargo versatility.
Comfortable and supportive front seats.
Engaging five-speed manual driving experience.
125-horsepower 16-valve engine improves performance over older non-turbo versions.

Cons

Fuel use can be high for a compact car, especially in city driving.
Parts availability and specialist knowledge can be limited in some areas.
No modern connectivity or active-safety equipment.
Older manual gearbox can feel deliberate and notchy.
Rust and deferred maintenance can make a cheap example expensive to restore.

Maintenance and Common Issues

A reliable annual maintenance-cost estimate is not verifiable because ownership costs depend heavily on corrosion, service history, parts availability, and whether work is performed by a Saab specialist. Prospective owners should budget beyond routine servicing and obtain a pre-purchase inspection. Common owner-reported concerns for the classic 900 generation include corrosion in structural and body areas, worn suspension bushes and mounts, aging vacuum hoses and fuel-injection components, electrical switch or window faults, and gearbox or clutch-hydraulic issues.

Rating

Overall rating: 7.4/10. Design: 9/10. Comfort: 8/10. Performance: 6.5/10. Technology: 3/10. Safety: 6.5/10 for its era, but significantly behind modern vehicles.

User Reviews and Feedback

Owner feedback commonly centres on the 900’s individuality, durability when maintained, and impressive practicality. Enthusiasts tend to forgive its quirks, while less committed owners may find its age, specialist parts needs, and maintenance demands challenging.

Owners often praise the distinctive shape and strong Saab identity.
Front seats and long-distance comfort receive frequent positive feedback.
Hatchback practicality is considered a major advantage.
Many owners value the manual gearbox and 16-valve engine’s character.
Maintenance history, rust prevention, and access to a knowledgeable mechanic strongly influence satisfaction.

Best Cars in This Category

1986 Volkswagen Golf GTI
1986 BMW 325e
1986 Volvo 240
1986 Audi 4000 Quattro
1986 Honda Accord Hatchback

Summary

The 1986 Saab 900 is best suited to an enthusiast who wants a usable classic with personality, practical packaging, and a genuine connection to the road. The naturally aspirated 16-valve engine and five-speed manual make it more appealing than a basic older 900, but condition matters far more than mileage alone. A well-maintained, rust-free example can be a rewarding alternative to more conventional 1980s compact cars, while neglected examples demand patience, parts knowledge, and a realistic restoration budget.