The Saab B230FIZO 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 147 kW (200 PS) and 285 Nm of torque, positioned between the B230FID and the high-boost B230FIZE.
Fitted primarily to the Saab 900 Turbo 16 S and certain European-market 9000 models, the B230FIZO was engineered for a balance of spirited performance and daily drivability. 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 optimizing the boost curve for mid-range responsiveness while maintaining reliability. This is addressed in Saab Service Bulletin 92-20-04, which details specific APC box mapping and wastegate spring revisions for improved throttle linearity and reduced stress on the turbocharger assembly.
All production years (1990–1993) meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2348).
The Saab B230FIZO is a 2,290 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented sedans and coupes (1990-1993). It combines electronic fuel injection with a single turbocharger and Saab's APC system to deliver a strong, accessible power band. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it offers a compelling blend of performance and relative reliability for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,290 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (95 RON min, 98 RON recommended) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 77.6 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) | |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 with APC | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (Garrett T25) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral or Semi-Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 156 kg |
The turbocharger provides a strong mid-range surge ideal for overtaking, requiring premium 95 RON fuel (98 RON recommended) to prevent detonation. Regular oil changes every 10,000 km with a quality 10W-40 oil are critical to ensure turbo and engine longevity. The timing chain is generally reliable but should be inspected for wear and tension at 150,000 km. The APC system, calibrated for a linear boost curve per Saab SIB 92-20-04, requires specialized diagnostic knowledge for 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/2348).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is specific to the 900 Turbo 16 S application (Saab TIS Doc. S12681).
Saab Technical Information System (TIS): Docs S12348, S12557, S12681, SIB 92-20-04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2348)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Saab B230FIZO was used as the high-performance turbocharged petrol engine in Saab's 900 Turbo 16 S and select 9000 models with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-including unique engine mounts for the 900 and specific ECU mapping for the 9000-and is calibrated differently from the higher-output B230FIZE, creating distinct performance characteristics. 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 S12403). The code will read "B230FIZO". Critical differentiation from the B230FID and B230FIZE: The B230FIZO shares the same basic hardware as the B230FID but uses a unique APC control box (part number 1276734) calibrated for its 200 PS output. It lacks the gold 'Aero' badging of the B230FIZE. The ECU and APC box are specific to this engine variant and not interchangeable with other B230 codes (Saab SIB 92-20-04).
The B230FIZO's primary reliability consideration is the integrity of its vacuum and boost control system, particularly the hoses and the APC solenoid. Saab internal service data indicates these are common wear items, while owner surveys confirm vacuum leaks as a frequent cause of erratic boost behavior. Using premium fuel and adhering to maintenance schedules is critical for preventing detonation-related damage.
Analysis derived from Saab technical bulletins (1990-1993) and aggregated owner club maintenance reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB B230FIZO.
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