Saab 900 Classic

I wasn’t kidding when I said I wanted either a Saab 900 or Volvo 240. After casually browsing Craigslist last weekend, I spotted a relatively clean ’89 Saab 900 that was recently involved in a rear end collision. Impulsively (or instinctively, depending on how you look at it), I ended up buying it.

The owner just bought the car back from the insurance company and was now selling it. When looking over the car in person, it was cleaner than expectations and ran well. With the exception of an insane shifter that requires executing a sequence of cheat code moves in order to enter gears. The bushings are apparently shot and it’s missing springs. In true Wheeler Dealer spirit, I’m going to get this inspected soon. There is also a minor oil leak and the paint is dull. I’m confident I can polish out the latter back to a luster, but I don’t think I’m even going to bother. As for the rear end damage, it isn’t horrible and I’m most likely going to leave it alone. The rear bumper is slightly pushed down and the driver side rear quarter panel is dented/crumpled, but hey – it’s like antiquing and adds to the car’s character.

I bought this car for a whopping $700, a detail I plan on boasting exclusively (not like there’s much else to boast about).

Alright, I know I’m going to feel like a total bum driving this thing, but that’s why I specifically wanted a Saab or Volvo, so I can at least be a classy bum. The fact that IKEA’s billionaire founder drives an old Volvo 240 really hit home for me, and it also goes to show that you should never judge a book by its cover. I like living subtly, with a hint of quirkiness. And, on occasion, being cheap… really, really cheap.

Without further ado, BEHOLD.

Cars with reverse-opening hoods are AWESOME. Those and pop-up headlights are features that I adore. Although it may add complexity and weight, I wish the RX-7 came with a reverse-opening hood…

I’d like to get rid of the Fiat and just drive the Saab around as a daily, however, finding someone who wants to take over the lease or buy it out may prove to be tricky.