• About
  • Saab Stories
  • Aeroriginal
  • Saab High Mile Club
  • The Archives
  • Events
  • Contact
Menu

SAAB VS. SCEPTICISM

Street Address
City, State, Zip
Phone Number
A blog about Saab and Saab Culture. Saab obsessions, Saab rescue missions and the odd Aeroriginal Saab for sale

SAAB VS. SCEPTICISM

  • About
  • Saab Stories
  • Aeroriginal
  • Saab High Mile Club
  • The Archives
  • Events
  • Contact

Saab vs. the ordinary

January 23, 2024 Eleven

Over the years I’ve been doing Saabvs, I’ve always had my favourites; the 9000 Aero and 9-5 Aero are the obvious ones, and of course, the iconic 900, but one I hold a particular fondness for is the original generation 9-3 HOT Aero convertible.

I designed the Saab vs. the ordinary poster to honour both the original campaign and also this particular Saab. This one single image has repeatedly persuaded me to buy this stunning Saab, and imagine it will do again and again.

I’m never sure why, but believe it’s the idea of utter freedom, roof down in all weathers and embracing the beauty of the world around us, it allows us to experience a feeling of calm and of elevated awareness. It’s a sensual experience that envelops you in its Swedish elegance and style. This generation 9-3 felt both restrained and decedent at the same time, its purity of design, clean lines and provenance giving it utter individuality.

Good ones are getting harder to find now, Viggens are often expensive and the automatic versions don’t appeal in the same way, but one day soon, I’ll find the right one again, always imagine.

In Classic Saab, Saab, Saab Stories, Saab vs Scepticism Tags Saab, Saab 93, Saab HOT Aero, Convertible
Comment

Another Saab Year Begins

January 3, 2024 Eleven

I woke up on the first day of a new year, and was welcomed by beautiful sunlight. The constant rains had stopped for a moment, and blessed us with a bit of much needed sun, what made it even more rewarding, was the light gleaming off the freshly cleaned super Aero alloys on the 9000.

It made me think of two things; firstly, that life moves fast, here we are at the start of year another year already, and as I get older, it seems to go even faster. Secondly, how stunning are those Super Aero alloys?

Designed by Saab in the early 90’s, they have become some of the most iconic wheels in Saab’s history, in fact, I’d go so far to say, they’ve become iconic in the wider automotive world too. 

Despite their petit 16 x 6.5 size, these alloys look large against the 9000’s silhouette, the expanse of bright metallic silver and matching hubcaps hide the wheel bolts and are aesthetically, perfectly balanced. Tyres are 205/55/16 and enhance that wonderfully comforting, old school look even further.

Here’s to another year, of health, happiness and Saabs.

In Classic Saab, Saab, Saab vs Scepticism Tags Saab, Saab Design, Super Aero, Saab Wheels, Beauty
Comment

Mission IntSaab2023

August 9, 2023 Eleven

Your mission, should you choose to take it, is to attend the International Saab Gathering at Gaydon, England, make contact with, and intercept two Spanish Saabists and make a discreet exchange of valuable Saab assets.

It sounds a little far fetched, but sadly, due to an immanent house move, I couldn't attend IntSaab2023. I'd arranged to meet up with a friend of a friend to exchange a rare Abbott Racing spoiler for an equally rare Troll R badge, the exchange looked unlikely, but at the eleventh hour, another friend told me he was heading over on the Saturday and would happily take my place. The Saab contacts were met and the exchange made thanks to all involved; I am hugely grateful.

I still had one last mission; to take photos of the event so even though I couldn't make it myself, I'd be able to feature a few memories from the day. My friend Jan completed both missions with ease and even got invited along to the next Saab meet, it just goes to prove how accepting our global Saab community really is.

View fullsize IMG_5544.jpg
View fullsize IMG_5572.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5575.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5577.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5579.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5580.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5582.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5583.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5586.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5587.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5589.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5590.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5591.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5592.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5593.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5574.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5594.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5595.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5596.JPG
View fullsize IMG_5598.JPG


In Classic Saab, Gatherings, Saab, Saab vs Scepticism, Saab Stories Tags Saab, Saab Culture, IntSaab2023, Saab Gaydon
1 Comment

A Man Called Ola

June 7, 2023 Eleven
Screenshot 2023-06-07 at 16.35.36.png
Screenshot 2023-06-07 at 16.35.48.png

A gorgeous story of a lifelong love for Saab. I read this recently over on Saab Planet and felt like it should be shared further, originally published by Aftenposten.

Ola Isungset from Norway is 100 years of age and still drives a tuned Saab Turbo, in fact he's just got his certificate to drive it for another three years.

One hundred years, it's just a number. But it is perhaps a slightly special number. Not everyone has been as lucky and got to be as healthy as me, says Ola Isungset.

Whilst we drive along, Ola quickly flashes out on RV.7 and gives the car a little more acceleration; the turbo whistles under the hood. With full concentration and both hands on the wheel, he steers his old Saab 9000 towards the centre of Geilo. The car will soon be a veteran says Ola, I have been one for a long time.

In February 2023, Ola Isungset turned 100 years old. It's been 76 years since he passed his driving test, and more than 60 years since he bought his first Saab. I have always been interested in cars. I have driven other cars, but it is Saab that has been closest to my heart, I've had almost all the Saab models, says Isungset with a smile that never seems to leave his face.

We continue to drive and the green Saab cuts through a grey Norwegian afternoon. The 9000 was Saab's executive car, an expensive and stately model that many believe was the last "real" Saab. Isungset makes it clear that his 1997 vintage is the Anniversary model; a well-equipped car with both turbo and leather seats and a sunroof, which celebrates 50 years since the aircraft factory showed off its first car, the so-called Ursaaben.

After passing his driving test, it took time before Ola and his wife Norunn got their own car, partly because the rationing of cars did not end until 1960. But in 1962 the couple visited their local Triumph dealer. We had received a brochure for a Triumph Herald, so went and had a test drive. When we returned, the car salesman asked if they wanted to try the two-stroke Saab, which they also sold. Ola's wife sat in the back and quickly said that this is the one we should have. So it was my wife who decided that we should have a Saab.

The two-stroke was the start of a long series of Saabs. In 1970 they bought a new 96; one with a V4 engine. Later on they purchased a 99 a 900 and finally, today's 9000, which Isungset bought from his Saab mechanic. For several decades he has used the same mechanic, a younger fellow who has not yet turned 80 years old. We still meet a couple of times a week, in the cultural church in Geilo. There we drink coffee and watch Saab reports on his PC. There is so much you come across on Facebook and Instagram. I myself have neither a PC nor internet.

When Ola bought the 9000 back in 2001, it was only 4 years old. It had driven 40,000 kilometres; barely run in. Now it has just completed 359,000 kilometres. I have been very happy with the car, one of my passengers even said it was like sitting in a limousine, he says.

The green colour is a rag colour he says, the dirt shows so easily that it must be washed vigorously. I appreciate the safety, and that it is very good to drive, it is also incredibly fast.

View fullsize Screenshot 2023-06-07 at 16.35.58.png
View fullsize Screenshot 2023-06-07 at 16.36.08.png
View fullsize Screenshot 2023-06-07 at 16.36.16.png

Under the bonnet sings a two-litre petrol engine, originally with 150 horsepower; the best engine Saab has made, laughs the 100-year-old. The engine was tuned when the car was new, and the power is nice to have when overtaking. But I drive carefully, that is! I use cruise control a lot and have never received a speeding ticket.

Apart from wearing parts, there has been no nonsense with the car in the 22 years. I didn't change the rear brake discs until after 350,000 kilometres. New cars have lousy metal in the brake discs, they often have to be replaced after 20,000 kilometres.

When asked what the Saab means to him, Ola says; more now than before. I live three kilometers from the city centre, and without a car I would have problems. I live alone, take care of myself and don't need any help from the municipality. With the car, I can go out when I want, shop for food and do what I want.

I lost Norunn twelve years ago. When I became alone, I found that I had to get out among people. That counts for a lot at my age.

This will be the last car I have, if I'm not unlucky and drive the car in to a wreck. I'm too old for new cars. I can't imagine getting started on these new electric ones. And these screens in new cars, they disturb the driver.

Every day Ola goes out driving; Summer and Winter. At the weekends I take slightly longer trips of 10-15 miles, to keep my driving skills the same. It is important. But in recent years I have not driven more than 10,000-12,000 kilometers a year.

I have taken senile tests every year since 1995 and had to have my driving license renewed every year. But last November, I got the certificate for three years, says the world's presumably oldest Saab driver.


In Classic Saab, Driving, Saab, Saab Stories, Saab vs Scepticism Tags Saab, Saab Culture, Saab Stories, Saab 9000, Norway
2 Comments

Saabs United GB

May 30, 2023 Eleven
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0000_Layer 55.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0001_Layer 54.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0002_Layer 53.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0003_Layer 52.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0004_Layer 51.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0005_Layer 50.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0006_Layer 49.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0007_Layer 48.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0008_Layer 47.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0009_Layer 46.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0010_Layer 45.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0011_Layer 44.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0012_Layer 43.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0013_Layer 42.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0014_Layer 41.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0015_Layer 40.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0016_Layer 39.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0017_Layer 38.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0018_Layer 37.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0019_Layer 36.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0020_Layer 35.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0021_Layer 34.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0022_Layer 33.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0023_Layer 32.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0024_Layer 31.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0025_Layer 30.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0026_Layer 29.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0027_Layer 28.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0028_Layer 27.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0029_Layer 26.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0030_Layer 25.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0031_Layer 24.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0032_Layer 23.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0033_Layer 22.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0034_Layer 21.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0035_Layer 20.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0036_Layer 19.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0037_Layer 18.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0038_Layer 17.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0039_Layer 16.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0040_Layer 15.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0041_Layer 14.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0042_Layer 13.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0043_Layer 12.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0044_Layer 11.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0045_Layer 10.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0046_Layer 9.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0047_Layer 8.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0048_Layer 7.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0049_Layer 6.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0050_Layer 5.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0051_Layer 4.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0052_Layer 3.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0053_Layer 2.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0054_Layer 1.jpg
SaabsUnited GB 2023_0000_Layer 55.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0001_Layer 54.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0002_Layer 53.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0003_Layer 52.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0004_Layer 51.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0005_Layer 50.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0006_Layer 49.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0007_Layer 48.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0008_Layer 47.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0009_Layer 46.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0010_Layer 45.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0011_Layer 44.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0012_Layer 43.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0013_Layer 42.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0014_Layer 41.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0015_Layer 40.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0016_Layer 39.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0017_Layer 38.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0018_Layer 37.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0019_Layer 36.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0020_Layer 35.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0021_Layer 34.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0022_Layer 33.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0023_Layer 32.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0024_Layer 31.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0025_Layer 30.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0026_Layer 29.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0027_Layer 28.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0028_Layer 27.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0029_Layer 26.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0030_Layer 25.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0031_Layer 24.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0032_Layer 23.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0033_Layer 22.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0034_Layer 21.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0035_Layer 20.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0036_Layer 19.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0037_Layer 18.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0038_Layer 17.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0039_Layer 16.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0040_Layer 15.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0041_Layer 14.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0042_Layer 13.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0043_Layer 12.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0044_Layer 11.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0045_Layer 10.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0046_Layer 9.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0047_Layer 8.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0048_Layer 7.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0049_Layer 6.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0050_Layer 5.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0051_Layer 4.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0052_Layer 3.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0053_Layer 2.jpg SaabsUnited GB 2023_0054_Layer 1.jpg

One of the many reasons I love Saab, is their ability to bring people together from all walks of life; the standard definition of a Saab owner no longer applies. That makes for a gathering full of conversation, laughter and a united interest.

For a second year, the folks at SaabsUnitedGB have created a fantastic event with over 200 Saabs gathered under the wings of historic planes at Newark Air Museum. A fitting backdrop to show off our pride and joy, with everything from the spectacular Granturismo 850 and immaculate 9000 Carlsson to highly modified 9-3s and iconic 900 Turbos.

As I walked around rows and rows of Saabs shining in the morning sun, coffee in hand and an inviting smell of food cooking on the nearby BBQ, I caught moments of conversation; an older couple had turned up in an impeccable Imola Red 9000 Carlsson, straw hats and stylishly dressed, their many Saab adventures proudly displayed on their windscreen with numerous event stickers. People polishing their alloys whilst others talked about engine mods, or setting up chairs and tables near their Saabs for a day in the company of friends.

Two highly modified, Kent Saab 9-3s stood out for their vibrant colours, impeccable stance and attention to detail, a stunning, bright orange Sonnet II was getting a load of interest, and one of the nicest 9-3 TTiD Sport Combis I’ve ever seen was carefully parked with one of the museum’s aircraft in the background. It was great to see a number of NG 9-5’s there too, it makes you realise how advanced Saab design was, as they look as fresh today as they did back in 2009.

My own Turbo X, recently reunited with a working engine, carried me flawlessly to Newark and joined a few other Turbo X on show, whilst the car it honours; the 900 Turbo, was aptly parked just a row away in gleaming black with an immaculate sand leather interior; my ultimate 900 colour combo.

A memorable day, and one that highlights that the fierce loyalty for Saab is still alive and well, their guardians might not all be Creatives, Architects and Doctors any longer, but with so much love for the brand, I feel our cars are now in good hands and we’ll enjoy many more years of likeminded gatherings like this. Thanks to all at SaabsUnited GB for organising such a great day.

Next up; Caffeine & Machine.

In A Road Trip to..., Classic Saab, Gatherings, Saab, Saab Stories, Saab vs Scepticism Tags Saab, Saab Culture, SaabsUnitedGB, Saab Gathering, Newark Air Museum
4 Comments

Saab Interior Design

January 9, 2023 Eleven

When it comes to Saab interior design, the 9000 Aero has to win hands down, it is quite honestly, a work of art. Both form and function have been taken in to consideration in this sublime space with some of the finest seats ever crafted by Saab, not only that, but the quality, clarity and layout of the instruments is hard to beat.

But what has 26 years and 107,000 miles done to it, has it held up to the test of time? Well, put simply, damn right it has. With these Aeroriginal rescues, I have to rely heavily on the people around me to do the mechanical and body work, but the interior is one element that I absolutely love to do myself, it’s the icing on the cake of each project, the reward at the end of a long hard slog to save a Saab.

I can take my time and give the interior the attention it deserves, I use an Autoglym foam cleaner for the plastics and instruments, leaving it to do its magic and them using a toothbrush, I clean up each and every button and screen, I then use a micro cloth to remove any residue dirt and give any surfaces a coat of a refresh oil. The leather is treated to an intensive cleaner, followed by a touch of Mr Scuff where required and finally a few coats of moisturising liquid Leather, all by Gliptone.

It’s not always possible but any illumination bulbs and broken buttons are replaced, original audio equipment is repaired and reinstalled and finally, I give the glass a clean, inside and out with Autoglym glass cleaner. A Saab interior offers way more than the sum of its parts, it’s a feeling a recognition that you’re driving something a little more individual than other cars, it surrounds you in both comfort and style and quite simply, just feels like home to me.

View fullsize Aero Interior__0000_Layer 16.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0001_Layer 15.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0002_Layer 14.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0003_Layer 13.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0004_Layer 12.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0005_Layer 11.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0006_Layer 10.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0007_Layer 9.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0008_Layer 8.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0009_Layer 7.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0010_Layer 6.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0011_Layer 5.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0012_Layer 4.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0013_Layer 3.jpg
View fullsize Aero Interior__0014_Layer 2.jpg
In Aeroriginal, Classic Saab, Saab, Saab Stories, Saab vs Scepticism Tags Saab Culture, Saab Design, Saab 9000, Aero, Interior
Comment

Dirt don’t slow you down

December 19, 2022 Eleven
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0001_Layer 16.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0006_Layer 11.jpg

As the legendary Porsche guy; Magnus Walker, says, “Dirt don’t slow you down” and he’s right, we tend to like showing our Saabs looking as clean as possible, Sundays spent polishing rather than enjoying. I learnt many years ago that I just don’t have the time to waste making them look immaculate, I want to be out there, driving and enjoying every spare moment I have.

Yes, it was great to see the 9000 Aero looking so lovely when it finally emerged from the bodyshop, but given a few days on the UK roads in Wintertime, and it’d reverted to type, looking purposefully dirty and very much enjoyed. We have salt on our roads of course which has to be constantly removed, but it really won’t harm them for a few weeks without a clean.

I take immense comfort in a dirty car, I don’t have to worry about steering around puddles or avoiding our inspiring country roads, in fact I take the time to actively search them out to truly enjoy the Aero’s wonderful comfort and handling. The fat Michelin Primacy tyres do their job well and soak up plenty of dumps and potholes with ease, whilst the embracing comfort of the interior allows you to sit back and enjoy every moment of the drive.

Get out there and drive I say.

View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0000_Layer 17.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0003_Layer 14.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0007_Layer 10.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0004_Layer 13.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0002_Layer 15.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0005_Layer 12.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0009_Layer 8.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0008_Layer 9.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0010_Layer 7.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0013_Layer 4.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0016_Layer 1.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0011_Layer 6.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0012_Layer 5.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0014_Layer 3.jpg
View fullsize 9000 Dirt Day__0015_Layer 2.jpg
In Aeroriginal, Classic Saab, Driving, Saab Stories, Saab vs Scepticism Tags Saab, Saab 9000, 9000 Aero, Aeroriginal, Classic Saab, Modern Classic
3 Comments

1/100

October 24, 2022 Eleven

According to How Many Left, genuine Saab 9000 Aeros are getting rarer each and every year, with the Autos down in to their 20's this year in the UK. That's not counting the one's currently SORN, but even then, we're talking very low numbers.

Along with the Saab 9-5, the 9000 Aeros have always been a personal favourite of mine, the understated luxury and quality of build still surprises me today, beautifully solid composure and one of the best Saab interiors of all time, but they're getting old and tired and most have covered hundreds of thousands of miles.

It's one of the reasons I find it hard to turn down a genuine Aero, I just feel they deserve to be kept on our roads and the reason I'm so proud of this Silver 9000 Aero.

It's been a slow process, almost a year since I was offered it, but time has been well spent, the integrity of the rear half has been cleaned, welded and protected, new suspension, new brakes, wheels refurbished, new Michelin tyres and new stainless exhaust, whilst mechanically, it's been given a good overhaul with numerous parts replaced, and is now running as smoothly as I'd hoped for.

Whilst I love the manual gearbox, I also feel that the Auto suits the big 9000 to perfection, a genuinely capable cruiser with 275hp on call to keep up with modern traffic. Shift is smooth and refined for a 90's car and happily sits for hundreds of miles at high speeds for road trips in style and comfort.

View fullsize Saab 9000_0003_Layer 2.jpg
View fullsize Saab 9000_0001_Layer 4.jpg
View fullsize Saab 9000_0000_Layer 5.jpg
View fullsize Saab 9000_0002_Layer 3.jpg

The interior remains flawless, every dial and every switch remains working and the more you're in a 9000, the more you become addicted to its simplicity and form. The Recaro designed seats still haven't been bettered in my eyes and feel both supportive and comforting to spend drive time in.

It has just come out of the bodyshop, where they've managed to remove a large dent in the door, a nasty crack in the rear bumper and also resprayed a number of panels including a replacement front wing and rear spoiler and truly looks exceptional again.

With these rescues, I'm never after perfection, I don't look to build them 'as new', far from it, I love the integrity of time, preservation rather than renew, it produces a Saab with more stories to tell and enjoy, a Saab that remains affordable, yet reliable and ready for many more journeys. With numbers dwindling, these Aeros offer rare and individual ownership, a chance to enjoy what Saab called their ultimate specification.

In Aeroriginal, Saab vs Scepticism, Saab Stories, Saab, Classic Saab Tags Saab, Saab 9000, 9000 Aero, Aeroriginal, Classic Saab, Saab Rescue
Comment

A Saab for Autumn

September 21, 2022 Eleven
Screenshot 2022-09-16 at 14.46.52.png
Screenshot 2022-09-16 at 14.47.09.png
Screenshot 2022-09-16 at 14.47.19.png
Screenshot 2022-09-16 at 14.47.09.png

I recently came across this absolutely beautiful Saab 99 GLE for sale in Finland and had to share it. Back in 1967, Sixten Sason headed up the design of a car that through a number of generations, would lead us to arguably the most iconic Saab ever built; the 900 Turbo.

The timeless elegance and wonderful colour combination on this particular 99 appeal to my love of retro, a way to escape the less than inspiring modern world, driving along Autumnal roads, burnt orange leaves lazily drifting in its passing presence.

View fullsize Screenshot 2022-09-16 at 14.47.48.png
View fullsize Screenshot 2022-09-16 at 14.48.08.png
View fullsize Screenshot 2022-09-21 at 11.21.47.png
View fullsize Screenshot 2022-09-16 at 14.48.44.png
View fullsize Screenshot 2022-09-16 at 14.49.05.png
View fullsize Screenshot 2022-09-16 at 14.48.32.png

Clasanteri, the Finish dealer currently selling the Saab, explain the car in more detail :

In 1967, the completely new Saab 99 was introduced. The body of the Saab was wide and low two-door saloon, which was later supplemented with a hatchback Combi coupé in 1974 and a five-door saloon in 1976.

From the 92 model to the 96 model, Saab had preferred two-stroke engines in its cars until the mid-1960s. However, it was decided to equip the new model with a four-stroke power source, which Saab acquired from Triumph. The Slant-4 engine was 87 horsepower and in the first Saab 99 models it was 1.7-liter. The modern equipment was electric fan, as well as disc brakes and rack and pinion steering.

This light brown original Saab 99 was bought by baker E. Vuorinen from Vanhalinna on May 25, 1971. Triumph had just upgraded the Saab’s powerplant to an 1850cc engine. Vuorinen sold the car after four years on April 4, 1975 to O. Pesanno in Lieto, who kept the car for more than 20 years until February 27, 1996.

The car still remained in Varsinais-Suomi and it was transferred to Jari Hoikkala in Turku. The next owner was T. Nironen from Littoinen, Turku region, who kept the car for only one year. On August 24, 1999, Saab was sold to North Karelia, for mr. J. Kerminen and the following year 2000 to E. Riikonen.

Riikonen restored the car thoroughly and the car was registered as a museum on September 25, 2000. There are plenty of documents about the restoration. Riikonen kept the car until 2022, when car enthusiasts M. Kakko and E. Riikonen exchanged Saabs with each other. Saab 99 came back to Varsinais-Suomi region, where it was spent its earlier years.

1971 Saab 99 GLE €12,800 | Clasanteri

In Saab, Saab vs Scepticism, Classic Saab Tags Saab, Saab Culture, Saab Classic, Saab 99, Timeless, Elegance
Comment