Highlights

Prepared for FIA historic rallies to 2013 regulations
Participated in the 2013 Historic Monte Carlo Rally
Complete mechanical overhaul with Saab Works rally kit
Engine increased to 1750cc with twin 45mm carburettors
Includes rare spare parts and four iron wheel rims for studded tyres

The Appeal

The Saab 96 is a rally icon that gained legendary status in the hands of drivers like Erik "on the roof" Carlsson and Stig Blomqvist. Much like the Lancia Fulvia, this front-wheel-drive, V4-engined sports coupé was well-suited for going fast on loose surfaces.

This 1971 example has been purpose-built for historic rally competition, featuring comprehensive preparation to FIA standards. Purchased in 2014 and subsequently rebuilt for competition, this 96 V4 has been enhanced with period-correct rally modifications, including a Saab Works engine kit increasing displacement to 1750cc, twin 45mm carburettors, and a competition-spec close-ratio gearbox with Gripper limited-slip differential.

Despite its comprehensive preparation, this rally-ready 96 has seen minimal use since its rebuild, covering only a few hundred kilometres on the road. It has, however, proven its capabilities by participating in the prestigious 2013 Historic Monte Carlo Rally, starting from Glasgow with race number 246.

For the enthusiast seeking an authentic 1970s rally experience with proper period modifications, this SAAB 96 V4 offers a competition-ready classic with genuine rally heritage.

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History and Paperwork

Right-hand drive example first registered in 1971
Prepared for FIA historic rallies according to 2013 regulations
Purchased in 2014, mechanicals completely rebuilt for competition
Retains UK registration, exempt from road tax and MOT
Never used in competition after rebuild, only a few hundred kilometres on the road
Participated in the 2013 Historic Monte Carlo Rally starting from Glasgow with race number 246
Full Group 2 preparation
Stored in a covered, semi-enclosed space (protected shed)
Old FIA and MSA documents included
Saab 'Soccerball' alloys
Some rare spare parts and four iron wheel rims for studded tyres included
Non-original colour, the car was probably originally white
Professional paint job dating from around 2010
The vehicle is not registered with the Automotoclub Storico Italiano

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The Condition

Very solid bodywork reported: floor pans and wheel arches appear in very good order
Body has all reinforcements indicated in Saab manuals for rally competitions
Safari-style air intakes added to the hood in 2014
No sound insulation, preparation was done on a bare shell
Original glass, standard fuel tank
Reportedly has no dents, just some minor surface imperfections
Floor and wheel arches repaired after the Monte Carlo rally and appear in smart condition
Spare grille with rectangular headlights included
Two GRP rear fenders with modifications for quick wheel changes during races (painted same colour as the body)
Rare Cibié Bilux supplementary lights
Underbody protection in duralumin
Seats, roll bar, and seat belts (expired but still usable)
Fixed fire extinguishing system with manual control
Tachometer, supplementary instruments and switches
No sound insulation or sound deadening
Battery located inside for optimal weight distribution
Original and preserved door panels (brown)
Modified pedals with an accelerator hinged at the bottom
Footrest for navigator
Tripmaster

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The Mechanics

1.75-litre V4 (rebored to 1750cc)
Four-speed manual transmission
Complete mechanical overhaul following the vendor's acquisition
Engine and transmission completely disassembled and rebuilt where necessary
Engine preparation with a Saab Works kit
Worked cylinder heads
Rally camshaft
Two 45mm twin-barrel carburettors on original Saab Works manifold
Oil radiator and Works-type cooling system
Exhaust modified to improve ground clearance per Saab Sport & Rally specifications
Gripper-type limited-slip differential
Short final drive ratio
Close-ratio gearset as used on official Saab cars
Brakes with an internal mechanical brake balance adjuster
Quick-release handbrake
Springs and shock absorbers replaced in 2020
Brake and clutch master cylinders also replaced in 2020
Dual fuel pump, protected fuel lines
Custom electrical system with battery and fuses in the cabin
V4 engine increased to 1750cc runs very well with good torque
Close-ratio gearbox helps utilise the engine's power
Engine compartment presents exceedingly well
Reportedly drives like a Saab ex-Works car from the early '70s
The Gripper limited-slip differential requires energetic steering at low speeds
Brakes without a servo require firm pressure on the pedal
Very "old-school" feel for a competition car of that period
Exhilarating sound

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