1981 Saab 99 Turbo Two Door

Highlights

  • Rare and ground-breaking 99 Turbo
  • Desirable two door model with better handling 
  • Engine rebuilt in 2015 and TurboDynamics turbo fitted 
  • Lots of work done & ready to be taken to next level 
  • Historic vehicle that's now MOT, tax and ULEZ exempt 

The Appeal

That it would be SAAB that pioneered mass-produced turbocharging perhaps shouldn't have been a surprise. The firm had been quietly pioneering innovative ideas, often focussed on safety, for decades before the 99 Turbo arrived.

Forced induction, appropriately enough, pushed SAAB to the forefront of the sporting saloon market. There were initially two versions of the 99 Turbo, a three door 'Combi' and the conventional 2dr saloon. The latter's stiffer shell gave these cars the edge when it came to handling.

This very rare survivor has received ongoing mechanical and structural investment since it was discovered as a barn find in 2007. It is ready to be taken to the next level. For enthusiasts of these superb saloons, it is an interesting project with an entertaining car to enjoy at the end of it. 



History and Paperwork

  • First registered 15th April 1981
  • Current owner since 27th October 2007 
  • Extensive history covering parts invoices and welding work 
  • We are told the car has been continuously improved up to 2019 
  • This work covered welding and replacement parts
  • All work undertaken by marque specialists 
  • Invoices dating back to 1990s 
  • Speedometer replaced after March 2019 MOT test 
  • Replaced at that time with one showing 152,000 miles
  • Last MOT expired 31st March 2021 with advisories for corrosion 
  • Historic vehicle status provides MOT, tax and ULEZ exemption 

The Condition

  • The car is complete but requires bodywork attention 
  • It has received welding work in various areas visible in photographs 
  • The interior is complete and factory correct but requires attention 
  • In particular the driver's seat is worn and headlining needs replaced
  • Front spoilers is broken and will require repairs 
  • Minilite-style alloys fitted that will require refurbishment 
  • Attractive later 99 interior with complete switchgear in fair condition 
  • Replacement speedometer showing around 8,000 miles more than car has covered

The Mechanics

  • 1985cc 'slant four' SAAB engine with upgraded TurboDynamics turbo 
  • Standard cars deliver around 145bhp through the front wheels 
  • 4-speed manual transmission
  • We are told that the engine was rebuilt in 2015 
  • No blue smoke from the engine, indicating its good health
  • Run up every week for the last few years
  • Bosch Warm Up Regulator has been refurbished
  • Vendor reports slight hesitation mid-range, which could be due to its low usage
  • Non-power steering model which is feted by enthusiasts for its steering feel 
  • Engine bay resprayed correct colour during its recent history 

BEFORE YOU BUY 
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 
If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies. 
A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details. 
This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only. 
✓VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing. 
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. 

Please see our FAQs here and our Terms & Conditions here

Vehicle specification
  • Year 1981
  • Make Saab
  • Model 99
  • Colour Red
  • Odometer 152,651 Miles
  • Engine size 1985
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Private
  • Town Cardiff
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
43 bids
  • da•••• £3,950 06/12/23
  • da•••• £3,850 06/12/23
  • da•••• £3,750 06/12/23
  • Ma•••• £3,650 06/12/23
  • da•••• £3,550 06/12/23
  • Ma•••• £3,450 06/12/23
  • da•••• £3,350 06/12/23
  • Ma•••• £3,250 06/12/23
  • da•••• £3,150 06/12/23
  • da•••• £3,050 06/12/23
Message C&C Auction Team

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