Saab 93

vs

Saab 9000

Sweden vs Sweden — 1949 vs 1985

Saab 93 (1949)
Saab 9000 (1985)
Specifications
93 93B9000 Carlsson
Horsepower33 hp220 hp
Torque44 lb-ft258 lb-ft
Engine Size748 cc2,290 cc
0-60 mph6.5 sec
Top Speed75 mph152 mph
¼ Mile14.8 sec
Weight1,786 lbs3,064 lbs
Wheelbase2,490 mm2,672 mm
Length3,990 mm4,620 mm
Units Produced52,731
Original MSRP$38,000
Value (Excellent)$40,000$20,000
Collectibility7/106/10
Rarity7/105/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1949 Saab 93 93B brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1985 Saab 9000 Carlsson answers with more power, higher top speed, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Saab has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1949 Saab 93 93B with the 1985 Saab 9000 Carlsson highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1985 Saab 9000 Carlsson holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 33 hp, a 187-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Saab 93 uses a Inline-3 Two-Stroke displacing 748 cc, while the Saab 9000 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbocharged with 2,290 cc. The 1985 Saab 9000 Carlsson claims a higher top speed at 152 mph compared to 75 mph. The Saab 93 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1278 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1949 Saab 93 93B commands a significant premium over the 1985 Saab 9000 Carlsson, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.