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Saab 99 EMS (1972-78)

The Saab 99 EMS was manufactured from **1972 to 1978**. It was a performance-oriented variant of the Saab 99 line-up, featuring a fuel-injected engine, sportier suspension, and a more aggressive design.
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Production Total: The total production of the Saab 99 EMS from 1972 to 1978 is estimated to be around **10,000 units**.
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Price New: In 1972, the new price of a Saab 99 EMS in the UK was approximately **£2,500**.
The new price of a Saab 99 EMS in 1972 was approximately **£5,500**. Adjusted for inflation to 2025, this would roughly equate to **£40,000**.
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Rivals: In 1972, the main rivals of the Saab 99 EMS and their approximate prices in the UK were:

### BMW 2002
- **Price**: Around £2,200

### Audi 80
- **Price**: Around £1,800

### Ford Cortina
- **Price**: Around £1,500

These prices reflect the competitive landscape of the compact executive car segment during that time.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there isn't a specific record of the exact number of Saab 99 EMS cars still on the road in the UK. However, they are considered rare and are often cherished by enthusiasts and collectors. You might find more detailed information through Saab owners' clubs or classic car registries, such as the [Saab Owners Club](https://saabclub.co.uk/) or [Saab Enthusiasts Club](https://www.saabclub.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=459&Itemid=2131).
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Road Tax: In 1972, the road tax for a Saab 99 EMS in the UK was based on the engine size. For vehicles with an engine size over 1,549 cc, the annual road tax was approximately **£25**.
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Petrol: In 1972, the cost of four-star petrol in the UK was approximately **35.25 pence per litre**.
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Insurance: The average cost of insurance for a Saab 99 EMS in the UK in 1972 isn't readily available. However, insurance costs for classic cars like the Saab 99 EMS can vary significantly based on factors such as the driver's age, location, driving history, and the car's condition.
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Saab 99 EMS (1972-78)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Saab 99 EMS (1972-1978) is a classic car, and like many older vehicles, it has its share of common faults. Here are some issues that owners have reported:

### Common Faults
- **Fuel System**: Issues with the fuel pump and injectors can cause the car to buck or sputter, especially when warmed up.
- **Ignition System**: Problems with spark plug leads and the distributor can lead to erratic engine performance.
- **Vacuum Leaks**: Vacuum hoses, the brake servo, and the auxiliary air valve (AAV) can develop leaks, affecting engine performance.
- **Cooling System**: Radiator and cooling system issues can lead to overheating, especially in older models.
- **Electrical System**: Faulty wiring and connections can cause various electrical problems, including issues with lights and gauges.

These are some of the common faults that owners have experienced with the Saab 99 EMS. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep these issues in check.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.

The Saab 99 EMS (1972-1978) belongs to the first generation of the Saab 99 model. During its production run, it was available in several trim levels:

### Trim Levels
- **Base**
- **EMS (Electronic Manual Special)**
- **Turbo**

These trim levels offered various features and engine options, catering to different preferences and needs.
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Engine
The Saab 99 EMS (1972-1978) was equipped with a **2.0L inline-4 engine**. This engine produced **118 bhp (120 PS/88 kW)** at 5500 rpm and **167 Nm (123 lb-ft)** of torque at 3700 rpm.
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Performance
The Saab 99 EMS (1972-1978) was a performance-oriented variant of the Saab 99 lineup. Here are some key performance figures:

### Saab 99 EMS (1972-1978)
- **Engine**: 2.0L inline-4
- **Power**: 118 bhp (120 PS/88 kW) at 5500 rpm
- **Torque**: 167 Nm (123 lb-ft) at 3700 rpm
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 115 mph (185 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Around 10 seconds

These performance figures made the Saab 99 EMS a sporty and enjoyable car to drive during its time.
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Rivals
In 1972, the main rivals of the Saab 99 EMS included the BMW 2002, Audi 80, and Ford Cortina. Here's a brief overview of their performance:

### BMW 2002
- **Engine**: 2.0L inline-4
- **Power**: 113 bhp
- **Top Speed**: 108 mph
- **0-60 mph**: 11.3 seconds - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/bmw/104875/bmw-2002-buying-guide-and-review-1966-1976)

### Audi 80
- **Engine**: 1.3L inline-4
- **Power**: 55 bhp
- **Top Speed**: 94 mph
- **0-60 mph**: 14.9 seconds

### Ford Cortina
- **Engine**: 1.6L inline-4
- **Power**: 98 bhp
- **Top Speed**: 105 mph
- **0-60 mph**: 11.0 seconds

These cars offered a range of performance options, making them competitive choices in the market during that time.
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Designer/Dimensions
The Saab 99 EMS (1972-1978) was designed by **Sixten Sason**.

### Dimensions
- **Length**: 4,420 mm (174.02 in)
- **Width**: 1,690 mm (66.54 in)
- **Height**: 1,435 mm (56.5 in)
- **Wheelbase**: 2,477 mm (97.52 in)

These dimensions contributed to the car's distinctive and spacious design, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts | Technical specs, data, fuel consumption ...](https://www.auto-data.net/en/saab-99-2.0-ems-110hp-12027).
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Spares/Specialists
For Saab 99 EMS spares in the UK and Ireland, you can check out the following sources:

### Euro Car Parts
- **Website**: [Euro Car Parts](https://www.eurocarparts.com/en_ie/saab-parts.html)
- **Description**: Offers a wide range of Saab parts, including the 99 EMS, with free UK delivery or click and collect service.

### EU-Spares
- **Website**: [EU-Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/saab/99/99-1967)
- **Description**: Provides a comprehensive parts catalogue for the Saab 99 Saloon, including the EMS variant.

### Saab-Spares
- **Website**: [Saab-Spares](https://www.saab-spares.co.uk/)
- **Description**: Specializes in genuine new old stock and used Saab parts, including the 99 EMS.

For garage services in Northern Ireland, here are a few options:

### McCormick's Garage
- **Location**: Unit 1, Glenford Way, Newtownards BT23 4BX
- **Phone**: 028 9181 0500

### Auto Services
- **Location**: 27 Bachelors Walk, Lisburn BT28 1XJ
- **Phone**: 028 9267 5322
- **Rating**: 4.6 (Facebook)

### MJS Garage Services Ltd.
- **Location**: 194 Killyman Road, Dungannon BT71 6LN
- **Phone**: 028 8772 7890

### Autopro Services & Tuning
- **Location**: 14 Esky Road, Derrytrasna, Derrymacash BT66 6PA
- **Phone**: 028 3844 0288
- **Rating**: 5 (Facebook)

These garages offer a range of services to help maintain your Saab 99 EMS and keep it in good condition.
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Racing
The Saab 99 EMS (1972-1978) did have a presence in motorsport, particularly in rally racing. It was designed with performance in mind, featuring a sportier suspension and a more powerful engine. The EMS model was used in various rally events and competitions, showcasing its capabilities and durability.
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Valuation
The value of a Saab 99 EMS (1972-1978) in the UK in 2025 can vary depending on factors such as condition, mileage, and originality. On average, you can expect the value to be around **£4,500 to £22,600**.
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Club
There are Saab clubs in Northern Ireland! Here are a couple of options:

### SAAB Owners Club (GB) Ltd
- **Website**: [saabclub.co.uk](https://saabclub.co.uk/)
- **Description**: This club has a wide network of Saab enthusiasts across the UK, including Northern Ireland. They organize various events and gatherings for members.

### Saab Enthusiasts Club
- **Website**: [saabenthusiasts.uk](https://www.saabenthusiasts.uk/)
- **Description**: Founded in 1989, this club brings together Saab enthusiasts for events, meetings, and a shared passion for Saab cars.

These clubs often have local branches and events, so you can connect with fellow Saab enthusiasts in Northern Ireland.
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