Saab 95

Introduction

The Saab 95 was first introduced in 1959 as a two-door station wagon derived from the Saab 93 sedan. It became one of Saab’s earliest family-oriented models, combining practicality with the company’s engineering focus on safety and reliability. Produced until 1978, it helped establish Saab’s reputation as a brand offering unique and versatile cars.

Exterior

The Saab 95 had a compact and practical design with a distinctive wagon body style. It featured a short, sloping front end, rounded fenders, and a long roofline that maximized cargo capacity. Later models incorporated updated grilles, bumpers, and lighting, while maintaining the car’s characteristic Swedish simplicity and functionality.

Interior

Inside, the 95 provided seating for up to seven passengers with an innovative fold-down rear seat arrangement. The interior was straightforward but functional, with durable materials suited for family use. While not luxurious, it offered excellent visibility, logical ergonomics, and ample cargo space, making it practical for long journeys and daily needs.

Safety Features

For its era, the Saab 95 offered a strong focus on safety. It featured a sturdy body, excellent road handling, and early adoption of safety belts. Saab’s engineering prioritized stability and driver control, which made the 95 stand out compared to many rivals in the 1960s and 1970s.

Engine Trims

The 95 was powered by small, efficient engines over its lifespan. Early versions used a three-cylinder two-stroke engine, later replaced by a four-cylinder V4 engine sourced from Ford. These engines provided modest performance but were reliable and economical, suiting the car’s family-focused role.

Maintenance

Maintenance of the Saab 95 is now a classic car endeavor. Its mechanical simplicity makes it relatively easy to service, though sourcing original parts can be challenging. Enthusiast clubs and restoration specialists ensure continued support, keeping many 95s alive as collectible classics.

Competitors

The Saab 95 competed with other European wagons of its era, such as the Volvo Amazon estate, Ford Taunus wagon, and Volkswagen Type 3 Variant. It distinguished itself with innovative design, seating flexibility, and Saab’s trademark focus on safety and practicality.