---

Saab Launches the Viggen

4 February 1999

Saab Launches the Viggen; New High Performance 9-3 is Ultimate Choice for Saab Enthusiasts

    NORCROSS, Ga., Feb. 4 -- While its Saab Aircraft namesake,
the Saab 37 Viggen jet fighter, defines agility and versatility in the air,
the new 2.3L high-output turbocharged Saab Viggen is poised to thrill Saab
enthusiasts who demand those qualities with four wheels firmly planted on the
ground. Set to debut at the New York Auto Show, the Saab 9-3 Viggen is a new
high performance variant of the Saab 9-3, characterized by a specially tuned
sport chassis, a high output Saab 2.3L turbocharged engine, superior
aerodynamics and exclusive exterior and interior styling.
    The Viggen name, which is Swedish for "thunderbolt," was adopted to denote
this exclusive 9-3 performance variant. The blue and yellow, delta shaped Saab
9-3 Viggen badge, reminiscent of the 37 Viggen's delta wing, is positioned on
the front fenders, above the side indicators. The Viggen logo is also
integrated in the door sill scuff plates and on the cam cover. In addition, it
is embossed in the backrest of the leather sport seats.
    In addition to the potent turbocharged engine, performance-tuned chassis
and 17" x 7.5" wheels, the 9-3 Viggen delivers superior aerodynamic character.
Saab designers ensured the 9-3 Viggen's low, aggressive stance by integrating
a rear wing spoiler, sill covers, and front and rear spoilers integrated with
the bumpers. To enhance handling and high speed stability, the Viggen's
downforce has been increased by more than 50% and the drag coefficient has
been reduced by 8% to 0.31.
    In honor of its aircraft heritage, the Saab 9-3 Viggen's cockpit features
specially designed seats for superior driver support and positioning during
sporty driving. Sections of the exclusive leather upholstery as well as the
leather door trim are color matched to the Viggen's exterior color, and
additional interior enhancements further underscore the car's performance
characteristics.
    The Saab 9-3 Viggen will be available as a Coupe, 5-door and Convertible.
Designed and developed jointly by Saab Automobile AB and the Oxfordshire,
England-based TWR Group, the 9-3 Viggen will be manufactured at the Valmet
Automotive plant in Finland, where Saab Convertibles have been assembled since
1986.
    In the U.S. market, where the largest production volume of Saab 9-3
Viggens will be allocated, the 9-3 Viggen Coupe goes on sale in very limited
quantities in May. Increased volume, as well as the debut of the Saab 9-3
Viggen 5-door and Convertible variants, will follow in the autumn of 1999.
Annually, only 3,000 Saab Viggens will be made available worldwide.