Saab Automobile Australia has chosen the Melbourne Motor Show to unveil its latest high-performance 9-3, the limited-edition Monte Carlo — a car that rekindles the spirit of Saab's Aero heritage.

A mere 195 of these special models will be sold around the world. Of those, 50 cars have been produced for Australia — and each one will be individually numbered — guaranteeing the exclusivity of this limited-edition car.

A high-performance turbo engine, sports-tuned chassis, body kit and a comprehensive list of standard features distinguish the Monte Carlo.

Saab Australia's managing director, Mr Bob Maron, said the Monte Carlo will go on sale during April and will be available in any colour you like — as long as it's Monte Carlo yellow. It will be priced from $64,900.

"The Monte Carlo is a direct descendant of the 900 Aero which was one of the most popular Saabs of all time," Mr Maron said.

"We have already had healthy inquiry on the Monte Carlo based on a small picture and some details on our web site. That type of reaction convinces us that these cars won't be on dealer showroom floors for long," he said.

The Monte Carlo is restricted to 25 three-doors and 25 five-doors, both with the choice of a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

Automatic versions will be powered by Saab's 136kW 2.0-litre turbo engine while manual models gain the high-output turbo (HOT) rated at 147kW.

For the three-door variant, 60 per cent will be manual and 40 per cent will be automatic. The split will be reversed for the five-door. Several cars of each variant will also be fitted with an electric glass sunroof at extra cost.

The Monte Carlo is fully equipped with an array of luxury, safety, security and comfort features, which set this model apart.

They include leather sports seats and steering wheel, three-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels, six-speaker audio system, CD stacker and woodgrain dash.

Comfort is assured with electrically operated and heated front seats (memory settings for the driver), automatic climate control, power windows, heated power mirrors, central locking, heat-absorbing glass, 60/40 split-fold rear seat with ski hatch, cruise control and a full-size spare wheel.

Of course, a car is not a Saab without a comprehensive list of safety features including twin front airbags, head/thorax side airbags, front seatbelt pre tensioners, Saab's Active Head Restraints (front) and Saab's Safe Seat.

Your investment will be protected with an immobiliser, security locking, and anti-theft alarm.