A Saab ensures serenity

The story begins on a slightly rainy, gray day in late autumn. I'm on my way to visit a Saab 900 8V from the mid-eighties. On the ride, I go through all the vulnerabilities again and make sure that I have everything to look out for.

It is my first Saab that I visit. Here I realize that the number of “woes” to be observed is limited, compared to other vehicles. Once at the destination, there is a detailed assessment inside and out.

Only slight flaws - I am calm and already a little bit in love. A test drive is good at first. At a supermarket parking lot once again a more detailed optical inspection. Again, there are no serious shortcomings. But then a little shock: the car does not start anymore.

When turning the key only a long lyring, but not starting the engine. My thoughts are racing and I'm going through all the confounding factors that are present for me at this moment in my head: Battery? This seems to be charged, as the lighting works and there is also a noise at startup. Starter? Seems ok too. After a few minutes then the next start attempt. It works out. The Saab is running and I'm relieved. Arrived at the seller follows a persevering price negotiation, which I can decide in the end.

The Saab accompanies me home. I'm so happy. I enjoy the trip to the home country to the fullest. About the highway it goes with leisurely 100 km / h - a sense of automotive freedom is coming.

In the evening I stand for a long time at the window and proudly look at the new acquisition - finally, I think, my own Saab. So far I had occasionally moved my father's Saab 9000. Already during these trips I was influenced by Saab and infected. The 9000 completely convinced me of the Saab brand, thanks to the sophisticated equipment and the unique driving experience - a mix between subtle sportiness and smooth-running elegance.

Saab trip to Trollhättan

Saab 900 in motion

Saab close up

Elk on board!

Why then buying an 900, will now be one or the other questions? On the one hand because of the vintage car status and on the other hand because of the design and the design. So I came to the Saab 900.

After the purchase, it went without much detours in the workshop to Saab specialists. Since then, the starting problem is history. It was followed by some minor repairs from own hand with the help of a friendly car mechanic. Oh yes. For now ask about the above starting problem: Here was the final setting of the ignition to correct. The idle speed was also adjusted, the cooling water renewed and the radiator replaced. There was a new valve cover gasket. Next comes a re-sealing of the gearbox and the exchange of the middle pot of the exhaust, as well as other minor maintenance work.

Since the purchase I have been able to experience many beautiful moments with the Saab. Half a year after his purchase, he made a wonderful trip to Sweden, attracting attention on local Swedish roads. A nice holiday expected to be revived at the Saab meeting at the Saab Automuseum in Trollhättan.

Being on the road with the Saab gives me a feeling of freedom and absolute serenity every time. Every time on German roads in the 900, I become aware of the immense hectic pace of people moving in traffic. For example on the German Autobahn: there is jostling, cutting, racing and there is enormous excitement. An experience that I rarely experience, for example, on Swedish roads with a speed limit. I call for more serenity - not just on the street. A Saab can help 😉

Saab lives on. In our thoughts and every day on the road!

Thanks to Tim Wagelöhner for this Saab story! How is it in everyday life with an older Saab? What do you experience, how do friends, colleagues and the family react? With indulgence, enthusiasm or compassion? How do you keep the Saab alive, what do you do with spare parts and workshops, how do you optimize or restore the old Swedes?

A broad topic for the "Saab stories 2019!". Challenging, but also interesting. How does it look with the fans, how strong does the Saab heart beat in everyday life? Write it to us, it's worth it!