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Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible Makes West Coast Debut

21 October 1999

Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible Makes West Coast Debut; 9-3 Viggen Models and 9-5 Aero Displayed at California International Auto Show

    ANAHEIM, Calif., Oct. 20 -- Saab Cars USA, Inc. showcased
it's all-new 2000 Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible at the California International
Auto Show on Wednesday, October 20, 1999.  This performance-oriented drop-top
features a high-output turbocharged 2.3-liter engine that provides
230 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 258 lb.-ft. of torque from a low 2,500 rpm all
the way up to 4,500 rpm for unique power on-demand.
    For 2000, Saab also adds a versatile 5-door variant to the Viggen line and
will continue to offer the Coupe model.  All three 9-3 Viggen models are
available in two new colors, Black and Silver, in addition to the previous
Viggen exclusive Lightning Blue. Less than 3,000 Viggens will be produced for
the world in model year 2000, with 1,000 of them coming to the U.S. market.
    Another Saab high-performance variant makes its West Coast debut - the new
Saab 9-5 Aero.  This luxury sport sedan builds on the performance heritage of
its predecessor, the 9000 Aero, while adding all of the innovative
technologies and amenities of the current 9-5 model line.  The 9-5 Aero
features a high-output turbocharged 2.3-liter engine similar to the 9-3
Viggen.  Its performance character is complemented by sporty exterior and
interior styling changes, including flared rocker panels, a front chin
spoiler, a rear valance and a sport steering wheel. Saab engineers have also
integrated a sport chassis with performance-optimized suspension, upgraded
brakes and 17-inch alloy wheels with low profile tires.
    The 9-5 Aero and 9-3 Viggen deliver the unmistakable thrust of Saab turbo
performance while retaining traditional Saab character traits, including
world-first safety features. They continue Saab's tradition of producing "hot
rod" variants - cars like the 900 Turbo SPG and 9000 Aero that mixed muscular
acceleration with sport suspension and aerodynamic finesse.
    In addition, Saab Cars USA, Inc. has announced plans to move its Western
Regional Office from Union City, California to Irvine, California.  The move,
which will take place in December, 1999, is designed to provide Saab with a
stronger presence in the influential Southern California market.
    "Southern California presents an enormous opportunity for us," said George
LoCascio, Western Region Director.  "It is an emerging Saab market that offers
an excellent opportunity to grow our brand.  This move will help us fully
support our retail partners in this area."  Saab currently has four retail
facilities in the Los Angeles area, and its calendar year sales in this market
are up 66 percent over 1998.  There are plans to add six more retail
facilities in Southern California in the next 18 months.
    Saab Cars USA Inc. is the importer of Saab 9-5 and 9-3 automobiles.
Nationwide, Saab's calendar year sales are up nearly 44 percent for 1999 - one
of the highest increases of any European importer.
    Saab Cars USA, Inc. in headquartered in Norcross, Georgia, near Atlanta.