Atlas 1:43 1999 Saab 9-3 Viggen

1:43 is a very nifty segment for those who want the details of the larger 1:18 and 1:24 scale models without the massive space-grabbing size.  Yes there are the low-buck pullbacks for kids that i've reviewed here and surprisingly some of the newer ones are getting just as good on detailing as these higher-end models like this Atlas brand that created Saab models specifically for their museum.  Of course I was drawn to this blue 9-3 Viggen.

The new 9-3 was introduced 1998 as the replacement for the 900 and while the styling is familier with a more rounded look, the platform is all-new and based on General Motors GM2900 platform shared with the Opel Vectra and Saturn L-series.  The new line is larger and sleeker while still maintaining the Saab hallmarks from the high-mounted dash controls to the fastback profile and even the key on the center console.  The engine's are the same I-4 design, but now are mounted in a more traditional transverse layout and the rear suspension is now an independent design.  In 1999 the Viggen line was introduced, meaning thunderbolt) and served a more sportier side to the 9-3 while tracing back to the hallmarks of the brand's aviation by refering to the Saab 37 Viggen.  The look outside has more aerodynamic body-coloered ground effects, front and rear bumpers, and a rear wing.  Inside the interior has bolstered front seats in two-tone black and blue color and only a 5-speed manual was offered with the 2.3L DOHC turbocharged I-4 that produced 225 horsepower.  Color pallete was limited to a select colors including this blue color shown here and eventually some features of the Viggen would find its way into the rest of the 9-3 line after the Viggen was discontinued in 2002.

For this Atlas model the box starts first with a nice nod to the Saab museum and around the box you can trace the Saab models of each generation.  Open it up to reveal a clear display case with white base and a plastic two-piece cage inside to protect the model (you'll see why in a bit), yet to get to the model requires a three-headed screwdriver!?!?!  After some nifty DIY with a flathead screwdriver I finally got the car off the base, and goodbye to that screw since the plastic cage inside does a great job of securing the vehicle anyways.  The blue metallic paint is gorgeous and really pops out of this car, joining the silver 5-spoke wheels with blue center caps and inside is the detailed brake calipers and rotors.  The front has large flush clear lights with clear side marker lights and even the inside reflector is detailed as well.  As a separate component on the lenses are the wiper blades for the headlights.  A black dip resides below the chrome grille, separate 9-3 Viggen front plate, and lower bumper with foglights and round mesh lower grille.  The exterior mirrors are painted blue and look great with the car, and among the separate components include the front wiper blades and the antenna on the roof, the latter the need for the plastic cage inside the case.

The sides show off the detailed black trim along the doors and windows, flared rear fender lips, and Viggen badges on the front fenders.  The rear hatch has detailed third brake light and separate rear wiper, with the rear spoiler just below it.  The back has black trim details, silver exhaust tip, and taillights with clear signal lights.  It's an overall sporty look.  The base shows off the exhaust system in silver and a few suspension component details, but otherwise not much else.  The interior is really amazing with all the cool details and that awesome two-tone blue and black combination.  The front seats have the bolstered look with the blue inserts and the whiplash head restrant protection.  The rear seats also get blue inserts and yet it doesn't stop there with blue inserts on the rear panels and front door panels.  The dashboard is nicely laid out with white controls, detailed gauges, and 4-spoke steering wheel with Saab logo.  The shifter is also nicely done with the correct knob design and boot.

Clearly this is one impressive casting from Atlas and was really worth it when at the time I got this one for $15 deal I was also considering the Bburago 1:43 2007 Saab 9-3 Convertible that is harder to find and cost twice as much on the secondary market with far fewer details and finesse compared to the level of details found on this Saab 9-3 Viggen.