Electric Cars

In 1987, Saab introduced the 9000S, a model that, despite its later arrival, aimed to broaden the appeal of the 9000 series beyond the high-performance Turbo variant. Unlike the Turbo, which debuted with a powerful engine, enhanced tires, and a rear spoiler, the 'S' model presented a more economical option, foregoing these aggressive features for a more moderate, naturally aspirated engine. This strategic release by Saab, starting with the premium model and later offering a more accessible version, marked a deviation from typical automotive industry practices. The engine chosen for the 9000S was already a proven performer in the 900 line, a sophisticated four-cylinder unit featuring double overhead cams, sixteen valves, and electronic fuel injection. This powerplant, efficiently integrated into the 9000's sleek, low-drag body, initially gave the Turbo version an impressive combination of speed, practicality, and fuel efficiency, earning it significant accolades and a place on 'Car and Driver's' "Ten Best Cars" list.

Despite its more subdued performance, the 9000S maintained the luxurious interior and exterior styling of its Turbo sibling, distinguished primarily by the absence of a rear spoiler and less aggressive tire specifications. The vehicle was praised for its aesthetically pleasing proportions and clean design, exuding an aerodynamic yet solid appearance. Although sharing a similar wheelbase with its competitors, the 9000S offered superior interior volume and comparable luggage capacity, even surpassing some rivals when its rear seats were folded down. The EPA notably classified the 9000 as a "large car," a testament to its spaciousness among imports. However, some criticisms were leveled at its air conditioning system's occasional quirks and a somewhat noisier cabin compared to the whisper-quiet Audi 5000. Nevertheless, the 9000, in both its S and Turbo forms, was recognized as a comfortable, practical, and modern vehicle.

The primary distinction of the 9000S lay in its performance, which, without the turbocharger and intercooler, saw a reduction in horsepower from 160 to 125. This translated to a noticeably slower acceleration, with the 0 to 60 mph time increasing by over two seconds compared to the Turbo, and a lower top speed. While not inherently slow, the 9000S lacked the exhilarating responsiveness that drivers had come to expect from the Turbo, particularly at lower RPMs. However, it offered other commendable attributes, such as effective wet-weather handling thanks to its Michelin MXV tires, and a surprisingly strong grip on dry surfaces. While the Turbo model's superior power and dynamic capabilities justified its higher price for enthusiasts, the 9000S carved its niche as a capable and comfortable cruiser, particularly adept at highway speeds and gentle curves, demonstrating that a car's worth isn't solely defined by raw power but also by its overall driving experience and value proposition.

Ultimately, the 1987 Saab 9000S, while not matching the raw power of its Turbo counterpart, represented a thoughtful expansion of the 9000 line, offering luxury, space, and solid handling at a more accessible price point. This approach underscored Saab's innovative spirit, demonstrating that excellence in automotive design and engineering can manifest in diverse forms, catering to a broader spectrum of drivers. It highlights the timeless principle that true value is found in the harmonious balance of features, performance, and practicality, resonating with those who appreciate thoughtful design and a confident, comfortable ride over sheer speed.

In a whimsical celebration of April Fools' Day, the editorial team at Car and Driver magazine decided to inject some humor into their usual automotive coverage. They temporarily swapped out the traditional headshots of their esteemed journalists with delightful photographs of their beloved pets. This imaginative twist offered readers a charming and unconventional look behind the scenes, revealing the furry, feathery, and even scaly companions that share the lives of these car enthusiasts. Each pet was introduced with a lighthearted and often comical description, painting a picture of their unique personalities and the occasional mischief they bring. This playful gesture underscored the human side of the automotive industry, reminding everyone that even serious car experts have a soft spot for their animal friends.

This special feature, while a jest, beautifully highlighted the personal lives of the Car and Driver staff, showcasing their affection for their pets. From dogs with a penchant for mischief during car reviews to chickens with a "numbers-matching" stripe, the article was a collection of endearing anecdotes and charming visuals. It provided a refreshing break from the technical jargon and rigorous testing typically found in the publication, offering a moment of levity and connection with the readership. The imaginative descriptions accompanying each pet's photo cleverly wove in automotive-themed humor, creating a narrative that was both engaging and true to the magazine's identity.

A Fleet of Furry Colleagues: The Pets of Car and Driver

In an unexpected and delightful move for April Fools' Day, the Car and Driver team temporarily transformed their professional profiles, replacing their expert journalists' headshots with endearing images of their personal pets. This charming initiative provided a unique and humorous peek into the lives of the individuals behind the esteemed automotive publication. From dogs who are "bed inspectors" to cats with a flair for office parkour, each animal's portrait was accompanied by a playful description that subtly hinted at the characteristics of their human counterparts or offered a funny, pet-centric anecdote. This lighthearted switcheroo served as a refreshing break from the usual rigorous car reviews, demonstrating the team's ability to combine professionalism with a sense of fun and approachability. It allowed readers to connect with the brand on a more personal level, appreciating the human and animal elements that contribute to the magazine's vibrant culture.

The article was a veritable menagerie, featuring a diverse collection of pets, each with its own story. There was Gus, the dog who "preens for bacon," and Emmy, whose dad is jokingly noted as signing the paychecks. Ruby, a dog credited with "successfully catching a fish during a comparison test," added a touch of fantastical humor, while Soup, the reigning "office parkour champion," brought a sense of playful athleticism. Bluebell, one of 18 chickens, was humorously dubbed the "Corvette Grand Sport" of the flock due to her distinctive stripe. Each pet's profile, though brief, was crafted with wit and warmth, providing a delightful diversion and showcasing the personalities of the animals that undoubtedly bring joy and an occasional dose of chaos to the homes of the Car and Driver staff. This initiative not only celebrated April Fools' Day but also fostered a sense of community and shared humanity between the publication and its audience.

Beyond the Byline: The Animal Kingdom Behind the Automotive World

Stepping away from horsepower and torque for a moment, Car and Driver presented a heartwarming and amusing April Fools' Day special, inviting readers to meet the real "animals" behind their renowned automotive journalism: their pets. This creative feature substituted the usual bylines with images of dogs, cats, and even chickens, offering a glimpse into the domestic lives of the writers and photographers. The humorous profiles highlighted each pet's quirks and contributions to their human's life, from a dog who demands eternal petting to another who skillfully deceives for snacks. This unconventional approach not only showcased the lighter side of the automotive industry but also created a memorable and engaging experience for the audience, reminding them of the shared love for companions that extends beyond the garage.

The gallery of staff pets was a testament to the diverse and endearing personalities that enrich the lives of the Car and Driver team. Readers were introduced to Boone, whose gaze entraps you in a "binding agreement to spend eternity petting this sweetie," and Hippo, a resilient dog "unshaken by two bouts of cancer," whose formidable opponent remained the rain. Louis, a "bed inspector" and "box enthusiast," added a touch of mischievous charm, while Stella "may contain whine," echoing a common pet owner sentiment. The article humorously detailed the antics and beloved habits of these animals, such as Petey and Emitt, the "reliable drinking buddies" and "shameless euchre cheaters," and Tom and Jerry, "lured into a loving home with nothing more than a few french fries." This collection of anecdotes and charming images solidified the connection between the staff and their cherished animals, making for a truly unique and entertaining April Fools' Day publication that celebrated companionship and humor in equal measure.