The Saab B230FIZE is a 2,290 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1993. It features a cast-iron block, aluminum head, SOHC 8-valve design, and Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection with an integrated knock sensor and Saab's Automatic Performance Control (APC). This engine, part of Saab's H engine family, delivered 162 kW (220 PS) and 353 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful variants of the B230 series.
Fitted exclusively to the limited-production Saab 9000 CS Aero, the B230FIZE was engineered for maximum performance and high-speed stability. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through precise electronic fuel metering and a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 1 standards.
One documented engineering focus was managing the extreme boost pressures (up to 1.0 bar) and preventing detonation under all conditions. This is addressed in Saab Service Bulletin 93-08-02, which details specific APC box calibration updates and reinforced head gasket specifications for improved reliability under high load.
All production years (1990–1993) meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2347).
The Saab B230FIZE is a 2,290 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for flagship performance sedans (1990-1993). It combines electronic fuel injection with a high-boost turbocharger and Saab's APC system to deliver exceptional power and a broad torque curve. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it represents the pinnacle of Saab's 8-valve turbocharged engine development.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,290 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (98 RON premium required) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (High-Boost) | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 77.6 mm | |
| Power output | 162 kW (220 PS) | |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 with APC | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T25 (High-Boost variant) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral or Semi-Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The high-boost turbocharger provides immense, low-RPM torque ideal for rapid acceleration but demands 98 RON premium fuel to prevent detonation. Strict adherence to 10,000 km oil changes with a quality 10W-40 oil is critical for turbo and engine longevity. The extreme output necessitates allowing the engine to idle for 60+ seconds after hard driving to cool the turbocharger, as per Saab SIB 93-08-02. The APC system requires specialized diagnostic knowledge for calibration and fault-finding.
Oil Specs: Recommends SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Saab Owner's Manual). Modern full-synthetic equivalents meeting API SG/CC or higher are acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all model years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2347).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is specific to the 9000 CS Aero application (Saab TIS Doc. S12680).
Saab Technical Information System (TIS): Docs S12347, S12556, S12680, SIB 93-08-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2347)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Saab B230FIZE was used exclusively in Saab's limited-production 9000 CS Aero with longitudinal mounting. This engine received unique platform-specific adaptations-including a bespoke high-flow intercooler, specific APC box calibration, and reinforced head gaskets-and is not interchangeable with the lower-output B230FID without significant modification. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat pad on the block, just below the cylinder head on the exhaust side (Saab TIS S12402). The code will read "B230FIZE". Critical differentiation from the B230FID: The B230FIZE is only found in the 9000 CS Aero and features unique, gold-colored "Aero" badging on the valve cover. It also uses a specific high-boost APC control box (part number 1276733) and a larger intercooler. Service parts, particularly for the turbocharger, APC system, and head gasket, are specific to this high-performance variant (Saab SIB 93-08-02).
The B230FIZE's primary reliability consideration is managing the extreme thermal and mechanical stress from its high-boost configuration. Saab internal durability reports indicate these systems are robust but demand meticulous maintenance, while owner surveys highlight turbocharger and APC system failures as the most common issues under aggressive use. Adherence to post-drive cool-down and using the correct fuel is non-negotiable.
Analysis derived from Saab technical bulletins (1990-1993) and aggregated owner club maintenance reports for the 9000 Aero. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB B230FIZE.
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