From the brilliantly (re)named Trionic Bros racing team in the US……
Press play.
Close your eyes. And just listen.
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I actually heard recently that the beautiful sound of the Saab 16V was actually somewhat unintentional. That’s something I’m going to have to dig into a little more.
In the meantime, go ahead and play that again. And enjoy.
AFAIK, the sound of the 900 16v come from the form of the exhaust manifold, and this had to be build this way because of space constraints.
I believe you’re correct, RedJ. Sounds like initial plans were for a different outlet, but they made do with what they could (to wonderful effect!).
I revel in listening to my ’93 900, and it’s not even a turbo. Saabs sound like nothing else, especially when you’re driving a manual. Thanks for answering this, RedJ! I’ve always wondered why Saabs sound the way they do. And yes, Swade – I’m sure I’m not the only one who would love to read a piece on the story behind the unique Saab sound!
Awesome!
It’s not just the exhaust manifold IMHO – I have a tubular (nearly equal length) manifold on my ’90 SPG, along with a 3″ exhaust all the way back – and although it’s different, it is still recognizably a Saab engine sound.
Great sound. Love the way it holds the gear all the way up the hill too. Cars do sound better with a manual box.
That’s music to my ears! After buying my very first 8V Saab 900 (an ’81), I took my Dad for a drive and he immediately mentioned the beautiful “jet engine whine” and exhaust note. I thought that was an interesting way to describe it!
Happy Saabing!
Music to my ears… and eyes!