Description
L'Atelier des 1000 is pleased to offer for sale this very rare SAAB 96L Rallye, a faithful replica of Per Eklund's legendary green SAAB 96 V4, winner of the 1976 Rally Sweden. An icon of Nordic motor sport, the SAAB 96 built its reputation on its robustness, exemplary driveability and ability to shine on the most demanding terrain, particularly on snow and ice.
In its Rallye version, it embodies the very soul of the era's competitions, with its authentic character and indisputable sporting pedigree. The example we present here, which entered service on 5 August 1977, is a replica built with remarkable attention to detail at the request of a former owner through a specialist tuner.
The livery, sponsor stickers and markings were photographed, measured and reproduced with the agreement of the SAAB Museum in Trollhättan, where Per Eklund's original is kept, ensuring a perfect visual match from every angle.
Prepared for competition, it has already competed twice in the Monte Carlo Historic Rally and has all the equipment required to be eligible for historic rallies. It has since been professionally purchased in Belgium in 2014 by its current French owners, and carefully maintained, with a file of invoices covering the last ten years.
The car underwent a complete service last year, including: - Replacement of front and rear shock absorbers and springs - Change of clutch receiver and hose - New fuel tank - Silicone hose kit - New thermostat - New ignition system - New radiator - New carburettors - Installation of long-range headlights Hella Rallye This is a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of rally history. Ready to take to the road or the start of a historic event, it will also find its place in a collection dedicated to Scandinavian icons. Mechanically, the V4 engine works very well. The 4-speed gearbox offers precise steering wheel control, and the clutch does its job without showing any signs of wear. Roadholding is precise and playful. There's no abnormal play in the running gear, and the adjustable suspension ensures excellent roadholding.
Braking is powerful and well-balanced, in perfect harmony with the car's performance. The brake hoses will be replaced for the sale. The exterior presentation, faithful to Per Eklund's car, is striking. The paintwork and stickers retain a beautiful appearance, enhanced by a uniform patina that lends the car a charm and credibility worthy of a genuine racing car. The body is sound, and the underpinnings are free of any structural corrosion.
Although prepared for racing, the original interior of this 'Luxury' version has been largely preserved. The green carpets, door panels and 4-spoke sports steering wheel are in excellent condition. The driver's seat is a period bucket seat, and the passenger seat is an original Saab reclining bucket seat. The original instrumentation is fully functional. The following have been added for rallying: a roll bar, a central circuit breaker, pressure gauges, a trip master and other equipment in accordance with historic competition regulations. Given the general condition and exclusivity of this model, we are asking €18, 990 for it. Trade-in and exchange possible Technical inspection: OK Delivery possible anywhere in France Warranty up to 36 months French collector's registration document L'Atelier des 1000 specialises in buying and selling European sports and classic vehicles.
For more information or to see our vehicles in stock, visit our website. To visit us, just give us a call! We welcome you by appointment only in our showroom in Glos-sur-Risle, Normandy, just 1h30 from Paris and 40 minutes from Rouen, Deauville, Cabourg and Honfleur.
