Make: | Saab |
Model: | 96 Sport replica |
Year: | 1964 |
Mileage: | 57,500 |
VIN: | 227302 |
Cylinders: | 3 |
Transmission: | Manual |
Vehicle Title: | Clear |
Item location: | Northbrook, Illinois, United States |
1964 SAAB 96.
This is a SAAB Sport replica (Monte Carlo in the US).
The car belonged to a renowned, Europe-based SAAB restoration shop’s owner. He build it for himself to participate in vintage car events and to enjoy local serpentine roads. The SAAB has proven to be reliable and capable car. The quality of the restoration has stood up very well to the test of time.
Featuring many Sport version’s visual cues (dashboard, steering wheel, hood vents, chrome trim, interior, etc.), this 96 has an 850 cc engine sourced from a “long nose” model. The engine was tuned for moderate and reliable increase in horsepower. Tuned ports, tuned carbs and slight increase in compression ratio give this 96 swift acceleration and everyday drivability. It keeps ups easily with modern traffic. Sporty exhaust is louder than stock but remains quiet enough for extended drives. Disc brakes up front provide sure and straight stops. The car uses premix fuel as the US market pump is not present.
Starting with a solid example of Swedish-market “bullnose” car, the shop owner took the body to the bare metal. He incorporated extensive rust protection to avoid having to deal with the rust in the future. Entire car was taken apart to the last nut and bolt and put back together with care, skill and knowledge that only come from working exclusively on vintage SAABs.
Upholstery looks as if it were done yesterday. The original front seat back frames are modified for safety with build in head rests (high back).
The 96 was subsequently purchased by a bullnose SAAB enthusiast who continued to use the car in vintage events. During one of the meets, famously “on-the-roof” Erik Carlsson autographed the dashboard.
The new owner installed some period rally accessories: roof-mounted light, co-driver’s map light and Halda Speedpilot rally computer. While functional, these items are not wired in. The car also has later era Bosh driving lights.
I’m the third owner since the restoration. Bullnose SAABs are becoming rare and to top it off most bullnose SAABs that can still be found are being shipped back to Sweden to be restored. This is a solid, ready to drive anywhere, nicely restored example.
A small collection of parts is included containing:
I’m also including rare brochures: 65 SAAB Sport and SAAB 96, owner’s manual (in Swedish), service booklet, and a copy of owner’s manual of regular 96 in English. Also included is May 1961 issue of Auto Motor und Sport featuring SAAB 96.
Please ask questions before placing bids.