The Saab B230FIZR is a 2,290 cc, inline‑four turbo‑charged petrol engine produced exclusively for the 1993 model year. 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 184 kW (250 PS), making it the most powerful factory 8-valve engine Saab ever produced.
Fitted exclusively to the limited-edition Saab 9000 CS 2.3 Turbo, the B230FIZR was engineered as a final, ultimate expression of the 8-valve turbo platform before the DOHC B234R's dominance. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic fuel injection and a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 1 standards for its production period. Its extreme output required meticulous maintenance and premium fuel.
One documented engineering focus is managing the extreme cylinder pressures, addressed in Saab Service Bulletin SB‑93‑15. This bulletin details a revised head gasket material and torque procedure to prevent failure under the engine's high specific output. The engine was a true homologation special, with production limited to a single calendar year.
All production years (1993) meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2348).
The Saab B230FIZR is a 2,290 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for ultimate performance sedans (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 represents the pinnacle of Saab's 8-valve turbocharged engine development.
| 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 | 184 kW (250 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH2.4 Electronic Fuel Injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with belt-driven pump | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T3 with high-boost spring and revised wastegate | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral or Semi-Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 180 kg |
The extreme boost and compression provide exhilarating performance but demand premium 98 RON fuel and strict adherence to maintenance. The timing chain should be inspected at 100,000 km due to the engine's high stress. The Bosch LH2.4 system and APC require perfect electrical grounds. The intercooler and hoses are under extreme pressure and must be leak-free. The revised head gasket per SB-93-15 is critical for preventing catastrophic failure. This engine is not for the casual owner.
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/2348).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all units (Saab TIS Doc. S20695).
Saab Technical Information System (TIS): Docs S20695, S20725, SIB SB-93-15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2348)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Saab B230FIZR was used exclusively in the ultra-limited Saab 9000 CS 2.3 Turbo with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations beyond its unique ECU, turbo, and head gasket for the 1993 CS. Production was extremely limited to 1993 only, creating a single, ultra-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 S20905). The code will read "B230FIZR". The 8th digit of the VIN is '7' for turbocharged 2.3L engines, and the 10th digit is 'N' for 1993. Visually, it can be identified by its single cam cover, top-mounted intercooler, and unique "2.3 Turbo" badging. The presence of a numbered plaque on the center console and specific 16" alloy wheels are definitive identifiers. Service parts, especially the head gasket and ECU, are unique to the B230FIZR and are not interchangeable with other B230 variants.
The B230FIZR's primary reliability consideration is managing the extreme thermal and mechanical stress of its ultimate factory tune, with elevated importance placed on the head gasket and APC system's integrity. Saab service records indicate that meticulously maintained examples are robust, while owner club surveys highlight that any deviation from specification leads to rapid failure. Using incorrect fuel or ignoring the revised head gasket procedure can lead to catastrophic engine failure, making adherence to service bulletins absolutely critical.
Analysis derived from Saab technical bulletins (1993) and Saab Owners Club survey data (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB B230FIZR.
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