- 25th anniversary of launch of Saab Convertible
- Driving force behind growth of convertible segment
- Established open-top car as practical, all-year-round transportation
It all began in 1986, when the first car in a production run of just 400 Saab 900 Convertibles for the US market was delivered. Now, three generations later, almost 300,000 Saab Convertibles have been sold around the world and the drop-top from Scandinavia is established as a global icon for the brand.
Whilst Saab did not invent the segment, its Convertible has played a leading role in growing what was once a small, market niche in decline. It injected panache and real-world credibility by changing perceptions about the feasibility of four-seater, open top motoring. The fact that a car designed to exploit sunshine and warm weather should be built in a land of snow and ice added to the Convertible’s mystique and its growing cult status.
Key to the Saab Convertible’s abiding appeal has been its ‘four-season’ capability. Here was a car that worked all-year-round, and was as comfortable and enjoyable to use in sunshine or rain and hot or cold conditions.
In European markets that are not known for their clement weather, countries such as the United Kingdom, Sweden and Holland, the Saab Convertible has accounted for as much as 50 per cent of total sales in the segment. Despite spending most of its time with the roof up and the heater on, this was a convertible that was not merely as a ‘second’ car, to be used sparingly when the sun came out.
Over 25 years, the Saab Convertible’s success has helped to mould the shape of the automotive landscape. Today, most manufacturers offer convertible models and it was the success of the soft-top from Saab that provided their inspiration. The launch of the Independence Edition Convertible, celebrating Saab’s rebirth as independent company, is now also a fitting tribute the Saab soft-top’s first 25 years.
Continue reading Saab’s Iconic Convertible: 25 years of Raising the Roof