Norev was founded in the suburb of Villeurbanne, near Lyon, France, in 1946. Their first product was a small service garage with several plastic cars. Other first creations were toys for babies. In 1953, the first vehicles manufactured were plastic and in 1:43 scale. The first diecast metal models appeared in 1971. In the early 1980s, Norev was acquired by "Majorette". With the new millennium, Norev has taken several new directions while keeping it's heritage. They have moved upscale with collectible vehicles aimed more at adults. As stated, most of these newer models are made in China.

The silver-metallic 9-7 X was available only at "Saab Expressions" through Saab-dealers. The black-metallic 9-7 X was sold only by Norev.