1973 Saab 96 V4

Highlights

  • Substantial history file including the original purchase invoice from 1973
  • Very original and well presented for its age with some attractive patina
  • Runs and drives well according to the vendor following a recent check over by a local Saab specialist

The Appeal

Renowned for its success on the rally stage piloted by the likes of Stig Blomqvist and Erik Carlsson, the Saab 96 was anything but conventional. With a Ford-derived V4 engine driving the front wheels and curious aerodynamic bodywork, the 96 remains a popular classic to this day.
We’re delighted to offer this charming 1973 example. Resplendent in a rather fetching hue of Verona Green, this Saab is really presentable and looks to be remarkably original too. Acquired by the present owner in April 2022 from a neighbour who had inherited the car, it has been enjoyed during the past year and is now in need of a new custodian. Accompanied by a substantial history file and recently checked over, this is not one to miss out on.

The History and Paperwork

  • V5C present
  • Still has its original bill of sale from 1973
  • Significant collection of old servicing and MOT test invoices
  • Exempt from road tax and MOT testing due to its age
  • Five former keepers identified by the DVLA
  • 101,609 miles suggested by the MOT history and odometer reading
  • The vendor informs us that it was recently checked over by a local Saab specialist
  • Dry stored during the winter months
  • Acquired by the present owner from a neighbour in April 2022
  • Stored in the previous owner’s garage for around three years

The Interior

  • Very original and in good, usable condition
  • Vinyl seats with velour inserts
  • Besides some small marks and a couple of minor tears in the rear bench, the seats are all in really good condition with just slight wear
  • The headlining is correctly supported, although has some small marks and a couple of tears in the rear on the right-hand side
  • Eminently usable green carpeting
  • The dashboard presents reasonably well, with no significant damage although some of the plastics are a little faded
  • Only gentle wear to the controls
  • The vendor informs us that all the switchgear and instrumentation functions correctly
  • The door cards look in fairly good order, sagging a little but with no notable damage
  • The boot is currently lined with ply-wood, with some corrosion to the inside lip of the bootlid
  • Spare wheel present under the boot floor

The Exterior 

  • Attractive green paintwork in good condition
  • Straight bodywork with few blemishes and minimal corrosion
  • Presentable chromework without much pitting
  • The glass, badges and trims all appears in good shape overall, with some age related wear
  • OEM wheels complete with hubcaps and Toyo tyres
  • Some corrosion under the rear lip of the boot which has penetrated the bodywork
  • A few rust bubbles around the body in various places and some signs of corrosion to the sills
  • Overall, a bright and usable example that’s in great condition for its age

The Mechanics 

  • 1498 cc V4 engine
  • Four-speed manual gearbox
  • Recently checked over by a local Saab garage
  • Some corrosion to some of the running gear and suspension componentry
  • Said to be driving well with no issues to report
  • New battery fitted recently
  • Mechanically original, with no later modifications apparently installed

Summary

This Saab looks like a very usable classic. It’s really presentable in a great colour that shows off that curious styling. We enjoy its originality and how it isn’t too pristine to enjoy.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.


A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
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Vehicle specification
  • Year 1973
  • Make Saab
  • Model 96
  • Colour Verona Green
  • Odometer 1,609 Miles
  • Engine size 1498
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Private
  • Town Hailsham
  • Location Sussex
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
38 bids
  • Do•••• £7,600 30/05/23
  • st•••• £7,500 30/05/23
  • Do•••• £7,475 30/05/23
  • st•••• £7,375 30/05/23
  • Do•••• £7,275 30/05/23
  • st•••• £7,175 30/05/23
  • Do•••• £7,075 30/05/23
  • st•••• £6,975 30/05/23
  • Do•••• £6,875 30/05/23
  • st•••• £6,775 30/05/23
Message C&C Auction Team

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