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Saab Announces Sales Increase of 28.6% for 1999

5 January 2000

Saab Announces Sales Increase of 28.6% for 1999; Best U.S. Sales Since 1987; Sixth Consecutive Year of Sales Growth

    NORCROSS, Ga., Jan. 4 -- Saab Cars USA, Inc., the U.S.
importer and distributor of Saab 9-3 and 9-5 automobiles, announced sales of
39,541 units in 1999, the Swedish automaker's highest U.S. sales volume since
1987.  Saab enjoyed its sixth consecutive year of sales growth in the U.S.
with a 28.6 percent increase over 1998.  In December, Saab retailed
2,920 units.
    "We are extremely proud of our 1999 results," said Dan Chasins, Saab Cars
USA, Inc. President and COO.  "We've been building momentum the past few years
and our 1999 sales success demonstrates that our new product line and new,
dedicated retail network are solid."  1999 was the first full calendar year of
sales of the Saab 9-3 and 9-5 models.  It also was the first full year that
Saab has seen the benefits of ongoing improvements made to strengthen its
retail network.
    Chasins pointed out that the Saab 9-5 played a large role in the year's
sales success.  Saab sold 16,778 9-5 models in 1999 which is 41.5 percent
better than the best sales year of the vehicle it replaced, the Saab 9000.
(Saab retailed 11,858 Saab 9000 units in 1988.)  In December, Saab sold
1,058 9-5 Sedans and 383 9-5 Wagons.  The 9-5 Wagon, which was introduced in
April, used its unique combination of versatility and performance to draw new
buyers to the Saab brand.  Saab retailed 3,927 9-5 Wagon units in 1999 --
higher than originally forecast.
    Saab finished the year with 22,711 9-3 units retailed.  In December, Saab
sold 1,479 Saab 9-3 models, including 453 9-3 Convertibles.  This demonstrates
that the Saab 9-3 Convertible, with its insulated top, optional heated seats
and excellent HVAC system, provides true four-season enjoyment.
    Chasins expects another strong sales year in 2000.  "With the recent debut
of the 9-5 Aero Sedan and the introduction of more 9-5 variants this spring,
we fully expect to build on our current momentum.  Saab's future is very
bright."