 |
Saab For 2001 |
By Carey Russ |
While there are no major changes at Saab this year, all 2001 Saabs come with the latest version of the "OnStar" telematics system as standard equipment. This is in keeping with the company's background in aviation and high-tech engineering. All Saabs are front-wheel drive for all-weather traction and turbocharged for maximum performance and efficiency at all altitudes, with minimal exhaust emissions. The company has been experimenting with novel variations of internal combustion engine technology lately, with the asymmetrically-turbocharged V6 in the 9-5 only the first step toward future developments.
9-5
The largest Saab is the 9-5, offered in sedan and wagon styles. The base model's 2.3-liter low-pressure turbo engine has gotten a horsepower increase from 170 to 185. Above that is a 3.0-liter asymmetrically-turbocharged V6 with 200 horsepower. At the top of the 9-5 line is the performance-oriented Aero, with a 230-hp 2.3-liter high-pressure turbo engine. An Aero Wagon was introduced in mid-2000, and offers sports-level performance and handling in a conveniently-sized wagon.
9-3
The 9-3 is the Saab traditionalist's Saab, and is available in five-door sedan, three-door coupe, and convertible body styles. Although more mainstream than its ancestor, the old 900, the 9-3's ignition key is still on the center console where the Saab faithful expect it to be. 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines are found in base and SE models, with 185 and 205 horsepower respectively. Saab performance aficionados can treat themselves to the Viggen, with a 230-hp 2.3-liter engine in all body styles. Named after one of Saab's best-known fighter jets, it has special bodywork and a sport suspension.
Saab Specifications 2001 9-5 ENGINE 2.3-liter light-pressure turbocharged inline four-cylinder Peak horsepower: 185 @ 5500 rpm Peak torque, lb-ft: 207 @ 1800-3500 rpm 2.3-liter high-pressure turbocharged inline four-cylinder Peak horsepower: 230 @ 5500 rpm Peak torque, lb-ft: 258 @ 1900-3800 rpm 3.0-liter asymmetrically-turbocharged V6 Peak horsepower: 200 @ 5000 rpm Peak torque, lb-ft: 229 @ 2500-4000 rpm DRIVE TRAIN Front-engine, front-wheel drive 4 - speed automatic 5 - speed manual CHASSIS & SUSPENSION Unit-construction chassis Front suspension: independent MacPherson strut Rear suspension: independent multilink BRAKES 4-wheel antilock disc EPA ESTIMATED FUEL ECONOMY City / Highway: 18/26 to 21/30 depending on model Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons
