Date: Fri, 23 Apr 1999 11:49:58 +0200 From: Andre Bosman <Andre.Bosmannopsam.ms.philips.com> Subject: Re: Saab/Fiat 9000 reality
That is because it was a joint development project between Saab, Fiat, Lancia and Alfa Romeo. They all share the same chassis layout. However, each of the four manufacturers made specific adjustments. Saab, for instance, reinforced and stiffened the chassis. It is therefore much stronger. This is immediately obvious when you drive a Croma and a 9000 and compare the two. Also, Saab has a much stronger body than for instance the Fiat (such as impact bars in the doors), you should notice the difference when you close a 9000 door compared with a 164 door. I own a Saab 9000 '89 and on occasion I drive a Lancia Thema owned by a friend of mine. The Saab is a much more stiffer car with an overall better quality impression. The Lancia, however, is more fun to drive. As it is all of the four cars are clearly put into different market segments. They are all nice cars though. The Fiat, however, has overall the poorest quality. I must admit, though, that the "Saab-feeling" of a classic 900 (of which I owned several) is absent in the 9000. The 9000, on the other hand, is a better car for long distance driving. Somehow I miss the specific roadholding of the good old 900. Stephen Mullally wrote: > > Question, > > Is the 9000 REALLY a Saab? (this goes for the 9-5 too) or is it a Fiat?. I > have owned a Fiat Croma, a Alfa 164 (as well as a bloody good look at a > Lancia Thema) and I'm not fooled, they are all the same car!.