It's been a long six months since the illustrious Turbo X arrived. From the moment it was pulled off the transporter, it became evident that something was very wrong; it just would not start. After endless advice from the Saab community, sadly, none of which worked, we finally came to the realisation that it was something more than a failed fuel pump, weak battery or faulty electronics.
The engine came out and the diagnosis of a slipped timing chain came to light, an entirely new chain kit and followers were sourced together with a new upgraded clutch, gaskets and hoses, and today, the engine has gone back in place. A load of work still to do, a 'spare' 2.8 V6 lump by its side and various modifications yet to be done, but it shows vital signs of life again.
Any other Saab might not have warranted such financial pain, headaches or time, but the Turbo X, especially a manual, is one that deserves the extra effort.
I'd been searching patiently from an unmolested example for a long time, and the original Turbo X brochure words capture the reasons why so perfectly :
Black is back. Thirty years ago, Saab stunned the automotive world by revealing its first turbocharged model. Now, with the Saab Turbo X, Saab for the first time unleashes its jet-inspired turbo power through Saab XWD. It’s not just all-wheel drive, it’s an innovative cross-wheel drive system. Thanks to 'rightsizing', the 280 bhp, 24-valve, 2.8 V6 turbo engine has the characteristics of a V8 engine: 295 lbs-ft of torque and an acceleration of 0–62 mph in 5.7 seconds. As if this wasn’t enough, the sport-tuned chassis, brakes and electronic control system combine to give you the ride of your life. The Saab Turbo X is the true heir to the classic Saab Turbos of the 70s and 80s. It is available in a limited edition and only comes in jet black as an homage to the original Saab 900 Turbo. So take a good look, a car like this only comes around every thirty years.
The jet black limited-edition Saab Turbo X is the extreme performer of the new Saab 9-3 range. Descended from the iconic Saab 900 Turbo, it introduces Saab’s innovative XWD technology that delivers an impressive level of driver involvement and dynamic chassis control never seen before from Saab. Quite simply, the Turbo X is Saab’s ultimate driving experience. We lowered the sport-tuned chassis by 10 mm and optimised the springs and dampers to minimise body movement. Larger internally ventilated disc brakes at the front and externally ventilated rear discs increase stopping power. 30 years in 5.7 seconds. The heart of the Saab Turbo X is, of course, the engine. A 24-valve, 2.8 V6 turbo powerhouse that generates 295 lbs-ft of torque between 2,150 and 4,500 rpm and maximum power of 280 bhp at 5,500 rpm. Press the pedal and it takes you from 0–62 mph in 5.7 seconds. Just like that, Saab’s 30 years of turbocharging experience flashes by. This has to be the fastest history lesson ever. And the most enjoyable.
We've got a way to go yet, but hopefully, over the next month, I'll finally get to drive the Turbo X. I'm truly hoping it lives up to it's reputation as Saab's ultimate driving experience. Finger's crossed.
