Saab 9-3 Viggen

Known only to the truest of petrol heads, just 500 examples of the Saab 9-3 Viggen ever hit UK and Irish shores in the Swedes’ attempt of beating the Germans at their own game.

Fitted with the 2.3 turbo B235R engine from the 9-5aero and with a host of other upgrades, the Viggen certainly didn’t disappoint, either!

This particular example has all the usual refinements such as those the big electric, and embossed Viggen seats (developed by Boeing, no less) a special Viggen bodykit, glass tilt/slide sunroof, air conditioning, upgraded alloy wheels and, of course, the ever so 90s digital dash computer.

This Viggen is in fantastic order throughout having had an extensive refurbishment by the much respected Saab specialist, McCormick Motors. As part of the works, the complete engine and gearbox were removed in order to carry out the notorious bulkhead repairs and add triple-strengthening. The result of which is a solid rust-free and crack free Viggen!

While they had the drivetrain out, major work was carried out and the following repairs & maintenance were done as preventive work:

New genuine timing and balance chain kits, new head gasket set and stem seals fitted, new front and rear crank oil seals and oil pump seal, new rocker cover gasket fitted and a new thermostat was fitted. Along with this a reconditioned TD04 turbocharger was fitted, and the sump was dropped and strainer cleaned. While the sump was down the opportunity to fit new big-end bearings and inspect the bottom end was done and everything was replaced.

The work didn’t just stop there with all vacuum lines replaced, all fluids & filters changed, a genuine clutch kit and slave cylinder fitted along with new Bilstein B6 front shocks and shock tops plus new front lower straight arms with centre polybushings along with the rear.

Added to the extensive list above, the following upgrades were carried out to this car over its life:

Full Abbott Racing Bilstein / Eibach suspension fitted including new shocks, uprated rear antiroll bar, stainless exhaust with the correct Viggen tip, grooved front and rear brake discs, a factory Abbott Racing tune and the all-important PCV-6 upgrade was fitted.

A genuinely fast sleeper that would mince an M3 or early AMG in the midrange. Third and fourth gear are absolutely relentless in the way it accelerates.

Being a 1999, this Viggen is eligible for classic insurance and, in our opinion, is one of the very best available anywhere.  A real collector’s car from a time when Saab knew how to do cool.

Viewing strictly by appointment. All cars supplied with valid NCT where appropriate.