The Saab 9-3 Sedan II Griffin, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2011, represents a final refinement of a model line that defined Saab’s commitment to Scandinavian design and innovative engineering. Positioned within the compact executive car segment, the 9-3 aimed to offer a blend of practicality, safety, and a unique driving experience. This iteration, powered by a 1.9 TTiD diesel engine producing 130 horsepower, was primarily sold in Europe, where Saab maintained a dedicated following. Production of this specific configuration was limited to the 2011 model year, coinciding with the brand’s financial difficulties and eventual demise in December 2011.
Saab 9-3 Sedan II Griffin (2011) 1.9 TTiD: An Overview
The 9-3 lineage began in 1998, replacing the aging 900. The second-generation 9-3, launched in 2002, brought a more sophisticated design and improved build quality. The 2011 Griffin facelift was a relatively minor update, focusing on cosmetic enhancements and refining existing features. The 1.9 TTiD engine variant was particularly notable for its fuel efficiency and torque output, making it a popular choice for drivers covering long distances. While not officially sold in the United States, the 9-3 competed with models like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class in the European market, offering a distinctive alternative with its emphasis on driver-focused ergonomics and safety.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2011 Saab 9-3 1.9 TTiD is a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated A19DTR. This engine utilizes twin-turbocharging and an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. It produces 130 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,500 and 2,750 rpm. This torque band provides strong acceleration in everyday driving situations. The engine features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 16.5:1. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 68.1 hp/l. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h (130.49 mph). The 0-60 mph time is calculated at 10.4 seconds. The drivetrain consists of a front-wheel-drive configuration paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
Design & Features
The Saab 9-3 Sedan II Griffin is a four-door, five-seat sedan characterized by its clean lines and understated elegance. The 2011 facelift brought subtle changes to the front fascia, including a revised grille and bumper. The interior prioritizes driver comfort and functionality, with a focus on ergonomic design. Key features include a comfortable cabin, a well-equipped dashboard, and a reasonably sized trunk offering 461 liters (16.28 cu. ft.) of storage space. Safety was a core tenet of Saab’s design philosophy, and the 9-3 incorporates features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis structure. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4668 mm (183.78 in.), width 1762 mm (69.37 in.), and height 1486 mm (58.5 in.). The wheelbase measures 2675 mm (105.31 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Saab |
| Model | 9-3 |
| Generation | 9-3 Sedan II Griffin (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 TTiD (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | December, 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A19DTR |
| Engine displacement | 1910 cm3 (116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1505-1605 kg (3317.96 – 3538.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 455-555 kg (1003.1 – 1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 461 l (16.28 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4668 mm (183.78 in.) |
| Width | 1762 mm (69.37 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2038 mm (80.24 in.) |
| Height | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Rear track | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual |
The 2011 Saab 9-3 1.9 TTiD, while a relatively short-lived model, represents a compelling example of Saab’s engineering prowess and commitment to creating vehicles that catered to a discerning clientele. Its blend of fuel efficiency, torque, and Scandinavian design continues to resonate with enthusiasts even after the brand’s disappearance.
