Used 1994 Saab 900 Consumer Reviews
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An intellectual's gem
treeweezel, 04/17/2011
1994 Saab 900 S 4dr Hatchback
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
You get a highly intelligent package: a very reasonable dose of sport, a cozy but pleasant cabin, and a beautiful aerodynamic back end. One huge perk is the cargo room- it's basically a wagon. Aero, capacious, sporting, the back end has it all. The car has gotten more stylish with age. Socially it was the equivalent of the Prius in its day. Then newer cars came with stubby, blobular shapes, making the Saab look long, elegant, and clean cut. REPAIRS?? Yes you will need to do them. The cost is the same as generic cars of the era plus 30%. The car is not unstoppable, but it is unkillable. After any given repair, you could have thousands of miles before your next.
Saab's are terrific!
YogiMac, 11/10/2010
1994 Saab 900 Turbo 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought this 5 speed 16v through the internet w/119,000 miles. I put a lot of money into it to get it back to life as the previous owner let the maintenance go. Expensive to fix if you do not have knowledge to repair minor things, or if you do not stay on top of general maintenance. The turbo's are sensitive and may not start if the oil is dirty. The cars do leak oil as they get older. It is important to keep the oil, antifreeze/coolant levels topped off too. Check cooling fans regularly or risk buying a new head gasket! Built with solid interior parts w/ a noise level next to nothing even as a convertible. The turbo whistle up is like listening to a symphony even @175,000 miles!
1994 Saab 900 for sale near you
Showing 3 of 3 listings
- Commemorative ConvertibleMSRP: $12,500256 mi away
- Base ConvertibleMSRP: $4,950537 mi away
- Commemorative ConvertibleMSRP: $7,950537 mi away
TCS Rocks!
BrianinPDX, 09/16/2007
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I've had my Saab for almost 2 years now and although I've spent a few bucks on it I can't say it's any worse then other cars its age. Mine has the "dreaded" V6 engine; I did have to replace the timing belt and tensioner (a common problem/flaw of the engine). The timing belt will need to be replaced in about another 10K miles. All said, considering the overall comfort and performance of this car, I can't complain. The Traction Control System is amazing. We don't get much snow here in Portland but when we do it creates a mess. I got caught in our one big storm last winter and this car got me home safe and sound. If you want a comfortable winter driver, get a Saab.
Stay away from GM
tonyv, 07/31/2007
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
V6-Love hate relationship. Never had a car that left me stranded so often. Glad it had a long warranty, it needed it. Funny engine noises=3 H2O pumps. Engine shut down on Illinois Tollway (don't expect help from the police or anybody) outside of Rockford with no warning. No dealership at that time in Rockford. Towed to Madison. Dealership took care of me, got to drive a tiny Kia for 3 weeks. Wished I towed it to Concours in Milw., would have had a new 9000 to drive. Battery shot in first year. Made mistake of going on vacation and not starting it for 7 days. Never replaced so many light bulbs, head, signal, dome, etc. Wished I bought the Saab 4 cyl. turbo.
Womans Luv of Saabs 3 year update
Tean, 02/16/2017
updated 08/19/2022
1994 Saab 900 S 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my saab its my fourth 900, this 1994 is my newest one I just got in January 2017. My first convertible. The top looks bad, and will be replaced. I did brakes over and had to replace cracked windshield. Other than that i'll do what ever I need to for this vehicle which I've loved since I was in high school in the 1980's . I'm happy about the price I got it for I paid the least amount for it and its the newest one I ever owned. Love YOU SAAB from SCANIA. In june I replaced the top, it looks great and I've enjoyed this summer very much with the top down. I also changed the rims on it and that looks great as well... Within the coming months i'll change out the carpet inside the car and probably the seats also to update the leather. Last thing will be a decent radio in it with Sirius xm radio and navigation....Stay tuned...:-) Haven't done much else since this review, but, this year is still new and i'll be able to start putting a dent in this list above for my saaaaaaab.. Within last two years my battery hasn’t lasted more than a year and a half 😳time for new alternator. Was reading Saab forum and there may be a concern over whether or not saab owners will be able to get fuel in not too distant future or convert if possible to electric ? Yikes 😳 that could be costly. Not sure what I’ll do to my Saab in near future concerning upgrades now. 😀
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Stay away!
wel, 06/04/2002
1994 Saab 900 S 4dr Hatchback
1 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used and it has been nothing but trouble. One costly repair after another. I would never consider buying another Saab, and neither would anyone else I talk to who own Saabs. The a/c is weak, no cupholders in the car, no interior space of any kind for maps, sunglasses, tapes, etc. Very poorly designed. I recently had a 2002 Saab as a loaner and it was no better. Stay away.
Run Away!
Crash Davis, 06/24/2002
1994 Saab 900 S 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my '94 Saab in late 1996 and, ever since, it's been a drag to own. Aside from the overall sluggishness and the repair bills, the car always has *something* go wrong with it. If it's not the transmission, it's the brakes; if the brakes get fixed, the headlamp goes. Worst, however, is the interior. I paid almost $18,000 for this thing in '96 and it doesn't even have a cup holder or the very-important arm-rest. Mea Culpa, Mea Culpa. I can't wait to be rid of it, it's taken me the better part of 3 years to sell it and I'm still trying! Avoid at all costs. (And I'm a 2-time Saab owner, I know what I'm talking about). -Crash
A fun, unique, practical car
TY, 07/22/2002
1994 Saab 900 SE Turbo 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 900SE Turbo has been a great car. It has a roomy interior, huge cargo area, great handling/acceleration, gets excellent fuel economy, and is generally fun to drive. For those who demand cup holders and/or center armrest, there are plenty out there from Saab and other aftermarket manufacturers. Additionally, if those are one's biggest complaint about a car, then that must be a pretty good car. Saabs are not as reliable or inexpensive to maintain as a Toyota or Honda. They are, however, a great car for someone who enjoys driving and sees cars as something more than just an appliance.
great car
mb25, 08/27/2002
1994 Saab 900 SE Turbo 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my car, simply put. What other luxury make has such poor resale value that you can find such a nicely equipped and fast car for this price? I drive mine between 500 and 1,000 miles a week, and it just keeps on going, while giving me 30+mpg. Repairs can be expensive, I would reccomend checking out saabnet.com, great resource for solving common problems.
Almost Good Enough
DLH, 09/02/2002
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We have the V6. Great Punch and fun to drive. This is our second SAAB and it has over 125K on it. We are starting to see HIGH failure rate on many systems. Not SAAB like.
Beats a Beamer
Peto Verdaasdonk, 09/27/2002
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
From time to time, I have heard people complain about maintainence problems with Saabs. I'm on my third, and frankly I don't know what they are talking about. Perhaps that's because I maintain my vehicle properly. Or maybe I'm just lucky. The car stays on the road, and performs like sports cars that cost 2 or 3 times as much. Great storage, great dependabilty, good fuel economy, and safety that rivals Volvo. I'm going back for another.
Good Family Car
Tina Jordan, 09/27/2002
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I like my Saab 900SE, because it has plenty of room for my family of 4, great storage capacity, and is a blast to drive. We've had one or two repairs, but parts were reasonable, and it didn't cost too much. It' great for driving in bad weather, and for my money it looks and drives a lot better than the Subaru Impreza that was second on our list.
maintenance is crucial
William Frucht, 06/11/2003
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Saab's V6 has a spotty reputation, but I've adhered closely to the maintenance schedule and never had a problem. I do have a quarrel with the Saab engineers' notion of the proper shift points with the auto transmission. The car is sluggish in normal mode but much better in "sport" mode. Next time I'll go back to a manual. This is a great car provided you do everything by the book.
SAAB fun and practicality
pdsd305, 07/31/2003
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Saab is great! The V6 is powerful, it has great cargo room, and good fuel economy. The seats are comfortable, but the rear is cramped for three people. The odd features like the igniton in the center and the black panel feature are actually pretty neat! Unfortunately, I've heard the V6 can be trouble after a while. I have had no such trouble.
Good deal
RobbyStroke, 10/05/2003
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We got a super deal on the saab and we're looking for a car. It had just about every feature. The seats were very comfortable, for a long drive I was used to SUVs so felt a little cramped. The gas mileage was great. It was really a nice car, the repairs were a bit costly, but they did replace the timming belt for free. Always drove it in sport mode, a little sluggish even with the V6 as it got older. I would buy a saab again, solid sporty car.
Long Live The Hatchback!
TraceyKP, 10/13/2003
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A few tiny bugs over the years (windshield washer pump, glove box door), but up until the transmission failed yesterday, excellent performance in all areas. Sturdy, fast, fun, reliable. (I'm actually hoping it proves economical to repair so I can keep it. If not, I'll get a new 9-3, but I'll genuinely miss this car.)
A GREAT CAR
900skid, 02/15/2005
1994 Saab 900 S 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got the car about 10k ago and as of now it's been more reliable than the low-mile honda it replaced. It has a few minor issues but I still can't believe I got a car with such quality and amenities for less than 5000 dollars. I'd recommend a Saab to anyone so long as they are willing to DIY on a lot of the maintenance.
Worth It!
gggggt, 01/02/2004
1994 Saab 900 SE Turbo 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fast, handles, but the ride is a bit harsh. Tons of room, even for 3 kids in the back seat on occasion. You must find a competent mechanic, not the dealer. The parts can be very expensive, so far highest to date of any car I've owned. I would still recommend it as I've owned it for 1 1/2 years. Get a 5 speed, not the automatic, and eliminate a potential problem.
great used vehicle
GregM4, 02/19/2004
1994 Saab 900 S 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
1st Saab, but not the last. Well built, feature loaded, unique, sporty and quick w/30mpg.
A Classic Dream Car
Steve P., 04/07/2006
1994 Saab 900 Commemorative Turbo 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this to replace a perfectly fine 1999 9-3 Turbo hatchback. Wanted the convertible and the classic 900 style in IMO nicer than the newer styles. It being a Commenmorative gave extra HP and style. This is the best car I have owned for fun and reliability. If you are lucky to find one in good shape, grab it!
DO NOT BUY THIS CAR!!!!!!
rachel, 04/29/2004
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I HATE THIS CAR!! I SAVED EVERY DIME I HAD TO BUY A CLEAN, RELIABLE CAR FOR ME AND MY CHILDREN. I AM A SINGLE MOTHER OF TWO SMALL CHILDREN AND BUYING THIS CAR BROKE ME. I DO NOT MAKE MUCH MONEY AND FIGURED A CAR WITH LESS THAN 100,000 MILES ON IT WOULD LAST A WHILE ESPECIALLY ONE IN SUCH WONDERFUL CONDITI0N AS THIS ONE. EVERY KIND OF CHECK WAS DONE ON THIS CAR BEFORE I PURCHASED IT AND GUESS HOW LONG IT LASTED? !!!2 WEEKS!!! I HAVE LOST EVERYTHING BECAUSE OF THIS PURCHASE! I WAITED SO LONG FOR A CAR AND INSTEAD I GOT ANOTHER HEADACHE!! SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE ABOUT THIS. HOW CAN A COMPANY GET AWAY WITH SUCH POOR PERFORMANCE?
My Take on this He-said-She-said debate
New Driver, 06/12/2004
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Ok...Ok... the Saab 900 isnt perfect. The lack of cup holders, minor space deficites, and other complaints of the like are a bit annoying, but come on...Its a sport sedan/hatchback. If you want some of these lincon-esque features then get a boat- sedan. As for the kind lady who claims this car ruined her financially: If every check was done then the car would have lasted more than two weeks. Also maitence is key! Check the record of your vehicle before you buy it. For a car in its price segment, its wonderful, its sporty, powerful V6, ultra-fast acceleration, supportive seats, peace of mind safety features, and fuel economy.
This is my 2nd Saab
Susan, 07/06/2005
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my second Saab. The first one is still running well at 200,000 miles. It's too bad that the hatchback is not being made anymore. It was very easy to transport many items. This car loves cold weather. It starts right up.
Good Cheap Car in Disguise
Joe, 02/18/2006
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just sold this car. A beautiful '94 SE V6. I miss the quick acceleration and 30+Mpg. There were some gremlins- SID malfunction, windshield washer pump and temp gauge stopped working (quick fix about 14 bucks!!!) Overall was very impressed. The car had 148k when I sold it and it probably is still running around. The cost of repairs were high though, cam seals (ALL FOUR) went at 138K and had that replaced with timing belt and WP for over 2 grand. The car wasn't as smooth as other V6s but I gave chase to a 540i on the highway until he switched to 6th gear and took off we were neck and neck at 150mph!!! The trunk was HUGE and allowed me to lug all sorts of stuff. Well worth the depreciated price!!!!
Excellent car!
Josh87, 04/19/2003
1994 Saab 900 S 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car fun to drive and quick. The one fault is the V6 engin that GM put in, because of this the timingbel has to be replaced ever 30000 miles and it cost alot!
1994 Saab 900 Convertible
Tony, 07/05/2007
1994 Saab 900 Turbo 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had this vehicle since 1994 and it handles like a new vehicle. Everything is still tight and handling is excellent. It has 117,000 miles and I keep it looking new. It is an expensive car to own since I try to maintain is looks and performance but it is worth it is since I always get compliments on it.
Good Car
snoborderphx, 09/01/2007
1994 Saab 900 SE Turbo 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I paid $2300 for a very nice car. It has a lot of amenities I really enjoy and drives very well. The stick is not very forgiving so you kind of have to know how to drive a stick well before getting in this car. I drove a stick for about 5-6 years before this and I'm still not used to it. It's a good car though, feels strong and it doesn't appear to have any problems! Cheers!
Sleeper
Stephen, 10/24/2007
1994 Saab 900 SE Turbo 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car for any consumer. The handling needs improvement but the acceleration is great. I have the turbocharged version, and the acceleration is great. I just installed a manual boost controller to increase the boost up to about 14 psi and rear anti-roll bar to reduce body roll, and the car feels great. This is my favorite car to drive, by far, and I have more mods planned in the near future. I drive my Saab very hard which is why I recommend suspension upgrades.
Best vehicle I have ever owned
ChrisP, 03/19/2003
1994 Saab 900 Commemorative Turbo 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
SaabUSA stood behind this vehicle and replaced the transmittion after WARRENTY expired. Authorized repair shop that I was using prior to the transmition problem occured, was closed. I now have a 4 year old transmition in a 9 year old car with 93,000 total miles and can honestly say it looks and drives outstanding.
The Best and the worst
Daviddgc, 11/20/2002
1994 Saab 900 SE V6 4dr Hatchback
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Do not buy the V6 engine. The Engine was built with the knowledge that it is flawed. If you have one or are a recent buyer of this car, sell it. The timing belt will last no longer that 20,000mi. Do your reserch. Saab dealerships are not even allowed to trade with model. Don't take my word for it, just ask any mechanic that has the ability to perform a timing belt change for this car (if you can find one). Also, don't expect the a/c to perform if you live in warmer climates. Let me save you time and money, buy an Acura,infinity,Honda.....God a geo would give you less grief.