The Saab B230FIZD is a 2,290 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1993. It features a cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder head, SOHC valvetrain with two valves per cylinder, and Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection with an integrated idle air control valve. In its standard form, it produced 162 kW (220 PS), offering a significant power boost over the standard B230FIC while retaining Saab's signature torquey character.
Fitted exclusively to the high-performance Saab 9000 Aero, the B230FIZD was engineered for spirited, sporty driving with a focus on top-end power. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through its precise electronic fuel injection, catalytic converter, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 1 standards.
One documented area for attention is the integrity of the vacuum hoses and the turbocharger’s oil feed line, similar to the B230FIC, which can degrade and cause boost leaks or oil starvation. This is detailed in Saab Service Bulletin 92-08-03. The engine’s higher output also places greater stress on the clutch and drivetrain components.
All production years (1990–1993) meet Euro 1 emissions standards as per period regulations (EU Directive 88/77/EEC).
The Saab B230FIZD is a 2,290 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance executive sedans (1990-1993). It combines Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection with a single turbocharger to deliver strong, accessible power. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes performance while adhering to the emissions regulations of its production era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,290 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (95 RON min.) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 77.6 mm | |
| Power output | 162 kW (220 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 (electronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (Garrett T25) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (min. API SG/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 180 kg (approx.) |
The low-compression, turbocharged design delivers a broad, flat torque curve ideal for overtaking and relaxed cruising, with a higher power peak than the B230FIC. Strict adherence to 95 RON fuel is mandatory to prevent detonation. The Bosch LH-Jetronic system is more reliable than K-Jetronic but still requires specific diagnostic knowledge. The engine’s extensive vacuum hose network is a critical failure point; hoses should be inspected and replaced preventatively. The turbocharger’s oil feed line is prone to clogging; using the specified oil and changing it regularly is essential for turbo longevity per Saab SIB 92-08-03. The higher output demands a robust clutch and drivetrain.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 with minimum API SG/CD specification (Saab Owner's Manual 9000 Aero). This viscosity is crucial for turbo lubrication.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all model years under EU Directive 88/77/EEC.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is specific to the 9000 Aero variant (Saab Group PT-1992).
Saab Workshop Manual: 9000 (1991 Edition)
Saab EPC Documentation: Doc. 9000-90
EU Directive 88/77/EEC (Emissions)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Saab B230FIZD was developed by Saab and used exclusively in the high-performance Saab 9000 Aero with longitudinal, front-engine, front-wheel-drive mounting. This engine is a higher-output variant of the B230FIC, featuring unique ECU mapping and potentially a different turbocharger wastegate spring. It received no major platform-specific adaptations beyond those for the Aero model. All variations are documented in Saab technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the block, just below the exhaust manifold on the driver's side (Saab Workshop Manual 9000). The code will read "B230FIZD". The 8th digit of the VIN is '5' for the 2.3L engine family. Visual identification: The engine features a prominent turbocharger (Garrett T25) and an air-to-air intercooler mounted in the front bumper. Critical differentiation: The B230FIZD is visually identical to the B230FIC but is only found in the 9000 Aero. ECU software and potentially turbo components are specific to the FIZD code and are not interchangeable with the standard FIC without modification.
The B230FIZD's primary documented concern is the degradation of its vacuum hose network and the potential for the turbocharger’s oil feed line to become clogged, leading to reduced performance or turbo failure. Saab internal service data indicated these were the most frequent causes of drivability and performance complaints for high-mileage examples, while general mechanical reliability from UK DVSA data remains high for the engine block and bottom end. The higher power output also increases stress on the clutch and transmission. Consistent maintenance of the vacuum system and oil changes is critical for preventative care.
Analysis derived from Saab technical bulletins (1990-1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB B230FIZD.
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