Turbocharged cars are commonplace today, but this was a novel technology when the first of them – the Chevrolet Monza and Oldsmobile Jetfire – appeared way back in 1962. BMW’s 2002 and the Porsche 911 took up the mantle in the 1970s, and by the following decade all manner of exciting machinery was on offer. All about performance and bragging rights, the results were rarely less than entertaining and provided enthusiasts with some proper motoring icons that are still desirable today. Which one of them would you choose?
SAAB 99/900
Another of the pioneers of turbocharging, Saab added exciting performance to the roster of attributes that included solidity, comfort and safety. It certainly set them apart from rivals, and began at the end of the ‘70s with the launch of the blown 99 and 900 models. The former offered 135bhp from its 2.0-litre ‘four’ and stood out thanks to its front and rear spoilers and unique ‘Inca’ alloy wheels.
It carried on until 1982 having been joined by the larger 900 four years earlier, with this executive express offering ever greater levels of power and performance throughout the decade. The launch of the 16-valve Turbo 16 in 1984 was a particular high point thanks to a potent 175bhp, while the Convertible that arrived the following year provided a very alluring way to catch
