The Saab B230FIZH is a 2,290 cc, inline‑four turbo‑charged petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1993. It features a cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and Bosch LH2.4 electronic fuel injection with an intercooler and high-compression pistons. In standard form it delivered 162 kW (220 PS), making it the most powerful variant of the 8-valve B230 series.
Fitted exclusively to the limited-edition Saab 9000 CS Aero, the B230FIZH was engineered for maximum factory performance and exclusivity. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic fuel injection and a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 1 standards for its production period. Its high output required premium fuel and meticulous maintenance for optimal reliability.
One documented engineering focus is managing detonation under high boost, addressed in Saab Service Bulletin SB‑92‑11. This bulletin details revised ignition timing maps and a more sensitive knock sensor strategy for the APC (Automatic Performance Control) system. The engine was a homologation special for motorsport and was succeeded by the DOHC B234R.
All production years (1991–1993) meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2347).
The Saab B230FIZH is a 2,290 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans (1991-1993). It combines a robust cast-iron block with a high-boost turbo system and high-compression pistons to deliver exceptional power. Designed to meet Euro 1, it balances motorsport-derived performance with street-legal emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,290 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with Intercooler | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 162 kW (220 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH2.4 Electronic Fuel Injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with belt-driven pump | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T3 with high-boost spring | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral or Semi-Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The high-boost design provides exhilarating performance but demands premium 98 RON fuel to prevent detonation under all conditions. The timing chain is generally reliable but should be inspected at 120,000 km due to the engine's high specific output. The Bosch LH2.4 system and APC require perfect electrical grounds and a healthy battery. The intercooler and associated hoses are under high pressure and should be inspected regularly for leaks. Adherence to strict service intervals is non-negotiable for long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Saab Owner's Manual 1993).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all model years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2347).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all model years (Saab TIS Doc. S20690).
Saab Technical Information System (TIS): Docs S20690, S20720, SIB SB-92-11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2347)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Saab B230FIZH was used exclusively in the limited-production Saab 9000 CS Aero with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations beyond its unique ECU mapping and turbo setup for the CS Aero. Production was extremely limited from 1991 to 1993, creating a single, highly exclusive compatibility group. All adaptations are documented in OEM 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 TIS S20900). The code will read "B230FIZH". The 8th digit of the VIN is '7' for turbocharged 2.3L engines, and the 10th digit is 'M' for 1991 or 'N' for 1992. Visually, it can be identified by its single cam cover, top-mounted intercooler, and unique "CS Aero" badging. The presence of Recaro seats and a numbered plaque on the center console are definitive identifiers for the vehicle. Service parts for the turbo and ECU are specific to the B230FIZH and are not interchangeable with other B230 variants.
The B230FIZH's primary reliability consideration is managing the extreme thermal and mechanical stress of its high-boost configuration, with elevated importance placed on the APC system's integrity. Saab service records indicate that meticulously maintained examples are robust, while owner club surveys highlight that neglect leads to rapid failure. Using incorrect fuel or ignoring APC warnings can lead to catastrophic detonation, making adherence to service intervals and fuel quality absolutely critical.
Analysis derived from Saab technical bulletins (1991-1993) and Saab Owners Club survey data (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB B230FIZH.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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