The Saab B230FIZG is a 2,290 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1993. It features a cast-iron block, aluminum head, SOHC 8-valve architecture, and Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection with an intercooler and catalytic converter. In standard form it delivered 147 kW (200 PS) and 285 Nm of torque, identical to the B230FIF but with specific emissions equipment for certain markets.
Fitted exclusively to the high-performance Saab 9000 Aero for markets requiring enhanced emissions control (notably Switzerland and California), the B230FIZG was engineered for spirited touring while meeting stricter regulatory standards. Emissions compliance was achieved through a more restrictive catalytic converter and revised engine management, meeting enhanced Euro 1 or equivalent U.S. standards.
One documented engineering adaptation addressed reduced boost pressure to accommodate the more restrictive catalytic converter, which could impact throttle response. This calibration, detailed in Saab Engineering Specification #ES-90-B23Z, involved revised wastegate spring rates and ECU mapping to maintain drivability while ensuring emissions compliance under all operating conditions.
Production years 1991–1993 meet enhanced Euro 1 or equivalent U.S. emissions standards for designated markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2347).
The Saab B230FIZG is a 2,290 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for the flagship 9000 Aero in emissions-sensitive markets (1991-1993). It combines Bosch LH-Jetronic electronic fuel injection with a Garrett T3 turbocharger and air-to-air intercooler to deliver strong, sustained power. Designed to meet enhanced emissions standards, it features a more restrictive catalytic converter and revised engine management compared to the B230FIF.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,290 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (Intercooled) | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 77.6 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 2,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic injection | |
| Emissions standard | Enhanced Euro 1 / U.S. Equivalent | |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T3 (Air-to-air intercooled) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | Not Publicly Available |
The intercooled turbo provides strong performance but the more restrictive catalytic converter may slightly blunt throttle response compared to the B230FIF. Using premium 95 RON fuel is critical to prevent detonation under boost. The specific 10W-40 oil is essential for maintaining chain tensioner and turbo health. The catalytic converter is a known wear item under high-load conditions; inspect for damage or blockage if power loss is suspected, per Saab Eng. Spec. #ES-90-B23Z.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Saab Owner's Manual). Modern full-synthetics may be used but were not original specification.
Emissions: Enhanced Euro 1/U.S. certification applies to designated market vehicles only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2347).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is identical to B230FIF but achieved with revised boost calibration.
Saab Technical Information System (TIS): Docs STI-2236, STI-3347
Saab Group Powertrain Specifications (PT-1992)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2347)
The Saab B230FIZG was used exclusively in the Saab 9000 Aero for specific emissions-regulated markets with longitudinal mounting and is not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine is mechanically identical to the B230FIF but features a more restrictive catalytic converter and unique ECU calibration for emissions compliance. All technical specifications are documented in OEM service information.
The B230FIZG engine code is stamped on a flat boss on the front of the engine block, just below the cylinder head and to the right of the timing cover (Saab TIS STI-2236). The 8th digit of the VIN for B230FIZG-equipped cars is typically 'Z'. Visually, the engine is nearly identical to the B230FIF, but can be differentiated by its more restrictive catalytic converter assembly and potentially a different ECU part number. Service parts for the exhaust and emissions systems are specific to the B230FIZG and not interchangeable with the B230FIF due to the unique calibration and hardware per Saab Eng. Spec. #ES-90-B23Z.
The B230FIZG's primary reliability focus is on maintaining the integrity of its emissions system and turbocharger. Saab's internal data indicated a higher incidence of catalytic converter degradation in vehicles subjected to frequent high-load driving, while the turbo system shares the same known issues as the B230FIF. Allowing the engine to warm up fully before hard use and cooling down after spirited driving is critical for turbo longevity.
Analysis derived from Saab technical bulletins (1991-1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB B230FIZG.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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