2011 sees the 25th anniversary of the iconic Saab Convertible. Following are some numbers that relate to the Saab Converible and might be of some interest to the many Saab Convertible fans out there.
25 years of Saab Convertible production:
- First generation (1986 – 1993) – 48,894 units
- Second generation (1994 –2002) – 149,145 units
- Third generation (2003 onwards*) – 99,535 units
*until April 2011
The latest Saab 9-3 Convertible is the result of 25 years’ experience in designing and engineering soft-top automobiles. To celebrate the Saab Convertible’s its first quarter century, here are a few fast facts:
3 – most popular colors are: Black, Steel Grey and Silver
6 – swiveling cross-braces are used in the soft-top to ensure it is tightly stretched in the raised position with a minimum of sagging
7 – hydraulic cylinders are used to execute four different movements in the operation of the soft-top.
11 – manual heat settings replace the automatic climate control when the soft-top is down. When it is back up, the climate control function is automatically reinstated, complete with any previously saved settings.
20 seconds – the time required to fully deploy the powered soft-top with the engine is running, making it among the fastest-acting in the premium convertible segment.
21 degrees – the ideal back-rest inclination for rear passenger comfort and this was a requirement for the 9-3 Convertible, despite the packaging constraints of soft-top stowage in the trunk.
26 meters – the total length of the hydraulic hoses used in the roof system
30 km/h – the maximum vehicle speed at which the soft-top can be raised. There’s no need to come to a stop to raise the roof if it starts to rain.
140 bar – is the hydraulic pressure required to operate the soft-top – 56 times greater than normal tire pressure.
181 – the number of moving parts in the soft-top mechanism. The main roof structure, including the front header rail, is made from magnesium to save weight.
366 – the number of Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Editions being built.
1,500 liters – of water is sprayed over the Convertible’s soft-top in a special chamber to check weatherproofing.
3,500 kilos – or more than twice the weight of the car, is the impressive load that the windshield header rail and its supporting A-pillars can carry. Necessary strength for rollover protection and good torsional rigidity.