1998 Saab 9-5 Sport Combi Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Saab 9-5 Sport Combi from 1998 varies between 1510 kg and 1650 kg (approximately 3329 to 3641 lbs). This weight range reflects the vehicle's solid construction and inclusion of safety features typical of Saab. While the weight contributes to a stable and comfortable ride, it can also have an impact on fuel efficiency and acceleration. The balance achieved ensures good stability and handling characteristic of a European station wagon of its class.

This model provides a luggage capacity of 415 liters (roughly 14.6 cubic feet) with the rear seats in place, which is competitive for a mid-sized station wagon. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo volume expands significantly to 1490 liters (about 52.6 cubic feet), providing generous space for larger items or increased cargo loads. This versatility makes the 9-5 Sport Combi practical for families and those needing ample storage space.

The vehicle's height ranges from 1492 mm to 1497 mm (58.7 to 58.9 inches). These small variations can be due to differences in suspension setup, trim levels, tire and rim sizes, or optional equipment. It could also result from slight differences in measuring methods or market-specific adjustments like roof racks or antenna types. Overall, these minor height changes do not significantly impact the car's usability.

The Saab 9-5 Sport Combi of this generation comes with rims sized 6.5J x 15 and 6.5J x 16 inches, paired with tire sizes including 205/65 R15 and 215/55 R16. Larger rims and lower-profile tires, such as 16-inch rims paired with 215/55 tires, can offer better road grip and sharper handling but may result in a firmer ride due to less tire sidewall cushioning. The 15-inch tire setup may provide a more comfortable ride, balancing performance and comfort.

A standard home garage typically measures about 2400 to 3000 mm (94 to 118 inches) in width and 4800 to 6000 mm (189 to 236 inches) in length. With a length of 4808 mm (189.3 inches), width of 1792 mm (70.5 inches), and height of up to 1497 mm (58.9 inches), the Saab 9-5 Sport Combi should fit comfortably in most standard garages, offering enough room for opening doors and walking around the vehicle as long as the garage is on the larger side of standard dimensions.

The 1998 Saab 9-5 Sport Combi continued the model's legacy from the earlier 9-5 wagons but introduced some refinements. While similar in length and width to predecessors, this generation improved interior ergonomics and cargo capacity. The luggage volume of 415 liters expands to 1490 liters with seats folded, a step up ensuring greater practicality. The overall dimensions became well balanced to improve handling and ride without compromising the spaciousness that customers expected.

Compared to similar European mid-size station wagons of the late 1990s, such as the Volvo V70 or Audi A4 Avant, the Saab 9-5 Sport Combi is competitively sized, with a slightly longer length than some competitors. Its cargo capacity is quite generous, especially with rear seats folded, matching or exceeding rivals. Additionally, Saab’s focus on safety and unique automotive features adds to its appeal. Overall, it offers a good blend of comfort, performance, and load capacity for families and active lifestyles.

The maximum authorized weight (gross vehicle weight) ranges from 2130 kg to 2180 kg (4694 to 4806 lbs). This figure includes the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and fuel, indicating the maximum weight the car can safely carry. Staying within this limit is crucial for maintaining handling, braking efficiency, and safety. Exceeding the maximum weight can lead to increased wear and tear and may compromise vehicle control.

The 9-5 Sport Combi of 1998 features suspension tuning tailored for a balance between comfort and handling, similar to other 9-5 variants but optimized for wagon dynamics and weight distribution. Its ride height, varying slightly between 1492 and 1497 mm (58.7 to 58.9 inches), ensures enough ground clearance for typical road conditions while maintaining good aerodynamics. Compared to sedan versions, the Sport Combi may have a marginally stiffer rear suspension to better handle cargo loads, contributing to stable and predictable driving characteristics.