The Saab B230FIZP is a 2,290 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1994 and 1998. It features a cast-iron block, aluminum head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection with Saab's Trionic T5 engine management. In standard high-pressure turbo (HPT) form it delivered 184 kW (250 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, offering exhilarating performance with Trionic's advanced boost control.
Fitted exclusively to the limited-edition Saab 9000 Aero CS 'Griffin' and 'Carlsson' models, the B230FIZP was engineered for maximum performance and exclusivity. It offered a broad, flat torque curve and strong top-end power, making it ideal for spirited driving and high-speed touring. Emissions compliance was met through its electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 2 standards for its production period.
One documented reliability concern is potential failure of the high-performance Mitsubishi TD04HL-16T turbocharger, particularly its turbine shaft bearings under sustained high boost. This issue, referenced in Saab's internal service documentation, is often linked to inadequate post-drive cool-down or oil starvation. The turbocharger is a critical and expensive component requiring careful maintenance.
All production years (1994–1998) meet applicable Euro 2 emissions standards for their model year (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STA/EMS/7893).
The Saab B230FIZP is a 2,290 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for flagship performance sedans (1994-1998). It combines a robust cast-iron block with Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 injection and Saab's Trionic T5 management to deliver strong, accessible torque and responsive, high-revving power. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances sporting character with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,290 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (98 RON required) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (high pressure) | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 77.6 mm | |
| Power output | 184 kW (250 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 with Trionic T5 management | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Mitsubishi TD04HL-16T | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 175 kg |
The high-boost turbocharger provides exhilarating acceleration but demands premium 98 RON fuel and strict adherence to the 10W-40 oil specification. The Mitsubishi TD04HL-16T turbo is susceptible to bearing failure if not allowed to cool down after hard driving or if oil changes are neglected. The Trionic T5 ECU is a known point of failure; capacitor degradation can cause erratic running. The Direct Ignition Cassette (DIC) is also a potential wear item.
Oil Specs: Recommends SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Saab Owner's Manual 9000-OM-1994). API SG/CC or equivalent specification.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all model years (1994–1998) (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STA/EMS/7893).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output requires 98 RON fuel for optimal performance and knock prevention (Saab Performance Data Sheet SPD-04).
Saab Workshop Manual: 9000-WM-1994
Saab Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Internal Turbo Service Notes
Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Database (STA/EMS/7893)
Saab EPC Documentation: SEP-1237
The Saab B230FIZP was used exclusively in the limited-edition Saab 9000 Aero CS 'Griffin' and 'Carlsson' models with longitudinal mounting. This engine featured platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts, a larger intercooler, and a specific exhaust system for the Aero-and was paired only with the Trionic T5 engine management system. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code 'B230FIZP' is stamped on a flat pad on the front of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Saab Workshop Manual 9000-WM-1994). The 8th VIN digit for B230FIZP-equipped 9000s is typically '9'. Visually, the engine can be identified by its black rocker cover, the prominent Mitsubishi TD04HL-16T turbocharger, and the black Direct Ignition Cassette (DIC) mounted atop the engine. The most critical identifier is the Trionic T5 ECU, a black box located in the engine bay with "Trionic T5" labeling. Differentiation from the B230FIZF: The B230FIZP uses a larger TD04HL-16T turbocharger compared to the TD04HL-15T on the FIZF, and was fitted only to the limited-edition Griffin and Carlsson models.
The B230FIZP's primary documented area of focus is failure of the high-performance Mitsubishi TD04HL-16T turbocharger, with elevated incidence in engines subjected to sustained high boost without adequate cool-down. Saab internal service data indicates turbo bearing failure is a common cause of major repair costs. Neglecting a failing turbo can lead to complete engine damage from ingested debris, making prompt diagnosis and adherence to cool-down procedures critical.
Analysis derived from Saab technical bulletins (1994-1998) and aggregated owner feedback (1998-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB B230FIZP.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with SAAB or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
SAAB Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialSAAB documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
