The driving experience of the Saab 900 Turbo is different from the moment you fire up the engine. This is because the ignition key slot is down between the seats and just behind the gear lever. When you park, you have to put the manual stick into reverse, which locks the wheels for safety and security. When you start the engine, there’s a surprisingly bass note for a four-cylinder engine and a very distinct Saab sound from the exhaust.
The aircraft cockpit style of the dash puts all of the dials in clear sight for the driver, with the stereo and ventilation controls mounted high and close to hand. The gear lever is equally well sited, though the shift has a slightly notchy action that encourages a deliberate, slightly slower action than, say, and E30 BMW 325i transmission of the same period. With power assistance for the rack and pinion steering, the 900 is easy to pilot at low speeds and feels wieldy in tight-knit streets.
