Endless reviews have been written about the Saab Viggen, but this one from Jalopnik just sums it up to me "We are dealing with the last of the throwbacks, the last mass-produced passenger vehicle on earth that stays the course, refusing to yield to bourgeois fashion and show-off technology. The 9-3 Viggen is the fastest hot-rod version of the Saab 9-3 and offers an impressive 230 horsepower from its 140-cubic-inch turbocharged four-banger that has been a part of the Saab inventory since Eric the Red left for Greenland"

I didn’t know too much about this particular Viggen, but after long conversations, decided to take it in part exchange against a 9000 Aero. I’ve got a particular fondness for the original generation 9-3, and the Viggen is by far the most extreme, driver focused version available.

The heart of the Viggen is of course the 2.3 B235R engine, coupled with a high output turbo, it originally produced a very capable 230hp, the fastest production Saab to ever have been produced at the time. This one has an absolutely amazing service history and paper trail of pretty much everything that’s ever been spent on it, it is truly impressive. With only 71,500 miles, it’s also one of the lower milage Viggen convertibles, and a beautifully cared for example of this hugely collectable Saab. We’ve given it a sump drop and clean, fresh oil and filters, and freed off all of the brakes, but other than that, it’s ready for endless enjoyment. It’s benefited from all the essential enhancements these Viggens require, the Abbott rescue kit for the bulkhead stability, a 6 point sub frame brace, and of course, a sensible NoobTune map and running a very capable 280hp.

Cosmetically, this Viggen is as genuine as they come, the exterior presents beautifully as does the completly sealed roof. It has the has normal marks and odd stonechip, but overall, the Lightening Blue paintwork looks impressive.

The original factory looks has been retained throughout, in fact, this is largely untouched, and certainly one for someone who prefers unmodified cars, the original Viggen 5 spokes have been refurbished at some point, the suspension all remains standard, and even the purposeful standard exhaust is in it’s original form.

The soft 2 tone leather seats have been cleaned and moisturised overnight with Gliptone and the leather feels supple and well cared for throughout the interior, all electrics seem to work perfectly and even the SID and climate displays are in good order - they have the odd pixel blip, but not enough to worry about for a few years.

The roof has had new hydraulic fluid added and works quietly and efficiently, occasionally it requires the odd helping hand to detach itself from the latches, but after that, goes up and down with minimal fuss.

These are rare Saabs, and getting extremely collectible, if you're looking for a convertible that sets you apart, the Viggen is just right. It's reliable an relaxing, but when you feel the need for a proper bash, it'll deliver uncompromising fun at a fraction of the cost of new cars with similar performance statistics, it'll also continue to go up in value.

I purchased this for £7500, but have decided to put it at a very low figure for a quick sale, for transparency, I’ve got another Saab project incoming, and one has to go before another can arrive, a house rule I have recently been told is a firm one

Essentials
Saab 93 Viggen Convertible
1999
71,500 Miles
Long MOT - February 2027
7 previous owners
V5C / Owners Manual / Single Key / Impressive history + paperwork

£7000 for early sale

WORKS LIST

Mechanical
Complete service including sump drop / filters / oil
Original Viggen performance exhaust
Bulkhead 6 point strut brace
Abbott Racing Viggen Rescue Kit
Noob Tune Stage 3+