REFINEMENTS MARK 1976 SAAB MODELS
ORANGE, CONNECTICUT -- More than 40 engineering refinements mark the new line of Swedish-built Saab automobiles for 1976. The refinements are as complex as new rear brake caliper pistons and as simple as a pushbutton trip odometer.
For 1976, the Saab 99's are available in three basic models: The Saab 99 GL, available in two and four door models with optional automatic transmission and power steering; Saab 99 EMS, with an improved performance package, again available in the two door configuration; and the Saab 99 WagonBack, introduced in 1974, which provides the flexibility of a sedan with the convenience of a station wagon.
THE POWER
All three models use a Swedish-built Saab 2-liter engine. The 121.1 cubic
inch (1985 cc) engine delivers 115 horsepower (SAE net) and 123 ft./lbs. of
torque in the Federal version. The Bosch Continuous Fuel Injection System
is used as is an on-off exhaust gas recirculation system (EGR) on Federal
cars equipped with automatic transmission. For California, Arizona and
Nevada, the Saab 99 utilizes proportional EGR and an air pump for exhaust
manifold air injection. These cars offer 110 SAE net horsepower with 119
ft./lbs. of torque. These are the same systems as employed on all 1975
Saabs.
As in 1975, all Saab automobiles, even those conforming to the strict California requirements, are able to run on any regular leaded or un- leaded fuel. This is due to the absence of any catalytic converter.
ON THE INSIDE
On the inside of the new 1976 Saab 99 GL, refinements include an electric
rear window defroster to augment the present hot air system, providing
excellent rear window clearing even on the worst winter days.
The Saab luggage compartment has been covered with a durable, low pile, nylon carpet in Manila Brown, which is fastened to the floor to prevent sliding. The sides of the compartment are finished in a matching Manila Brown fiber board.
Steel door sill plates are coated with a flat black plastic material for extra durability. For 1976, carpeting is installed, at the factory, to insure better fit and quality control.
Color has always played an important role in the designing and planning of Saab automobiles. For 1976 there has even been a change in the low fuel warning lights, to orange, for better visibility. Reducing the glare from the instrument panel has been achieved by redesigning another light indicator, that for the high beams.
A new gas filler pipe and cap have also been installed on the 1976 Saab models. In addition, a special safety valve helps prevent fuel leakage in the event of a roll-over. Should a roll-over occur, it is reassuring to know that Saab's built-in roll cage construction, a sort of steel cage, will protect the passengers by maintaining the integrity of the passenger compartment.
THE OUTSIDE
Saab has made few changes to the actual "skin" of the new 1976 Saab 99's.
In fact, the basic design has not been altered since its introduction in
1969. But, there have been refinements. For 1976, a new body side
molding will be standard. It is black, with a thin white accent stripe.
The molding is also wider than in previous years. The WagonBack's rear
door has a strap handle to facilitate its closing.
UNDER THE HOOD
There are a number of major improvements under the hood of each new 1976
Saab 99, including a new clutch slave cylinder which works directly on the
throwout bearing, and the brake calipers have been fitted with larger
pistons to improve the performance of the rear braking system.
For 1976, all Saab automobiles also use larger springs which will improve the riding comfort. And, each front-wheel-drive Saab rides on wider 5 inch wheels, with steel belted radial tires.
EMS
The Saab most affected by refinements for 1976 is the EMS. The performance
car from Saab is now even more of a performer with an air spoiler of black
molded plastic in the front, Bilstein gas filled shock absorbers for
improved handling and Pirelli CN-36 175/70 HR15 tires for even better
traction and road holding.
COLOR
Two new colors, Topaz Yellow and Spring Green, join Coral White, Solar Red,
Sienna Brown and Carolina Blue as colors for the Saab 99 GL series. The
Saab 99 EMS will still be available in either Sterling Silver Metallic or
Black, both with contrasting racing stripe. Because paint, even the paint
on a 1976 Saab can chip, a Saab "lacquer Pin" touch up paint set will be
included with each tool kit. And, for those who want to let the sun shine
in, the Saab 99 EMS will be available with an optional sun roof. Other
options include AM/FM stereo radio with tape player, air conditioning and
automatic transmission with power steering (except on EMS).
All the Saab models are available at more than 375 Saab dealers nationwide.
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