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Saab Sonett IV: A Missed Opportunity in Sports Car Innovation
The Saab Sonett IV, conceptualized in the late 1960s and early 1970s, was a mid-engine, 4-wheel-drive sports car. Designed by Björn Andreasson, it could have marked a significant leap in Saab’s automotive design. This model continued the legacy of the Sonett series with its sleek, innovative design, aimed at enhancing performance and aesthetics.
The drivetrain included a mid-mounted engine from the Saab 99 and a transmission for four-wheel drive, indicated in blue on the design plans. This configuration would have placed Saab nearly a decade ahead of the rally sport’s Group B monsters with mid-engine and 4WD.
The Sonett Series: An Evolution Cut Short
The Sonett series began with the Sonett I, known for its lightweight and aerodynamic build. This model was produced in just six examples in 1956. The series evolved with the Sonett II and III, which introduced new design elements and engineering advancements.
The Sonett II, designed by Björn Karlström and constructed by Björn Andreasson, initially featured a two-stroke engine, later replaced by a V4 engine in 1968.
The Sonett III, presented in 1970, had a more elegant design refined by Gunnar A. Sjögren, based on sketches by Sergio Coggiola. However, the series was abruptly discontinued in 1974, with the Sonett IV remaining only a prototype. The total production of Sonett II and III reached 10,236 units, making it a niche but beloved line among enthusiasts.
Insights from the Saab Community
The Swedish Saab Sonett Club and other Saab enthusiast groups have kept the legacy of the Sonett series alive. They frequently discuss the design innovations and the engineering prowess that Saab exhibited through these models.
One notable moment occurred when the Antikbilklubben in Linköping obtained intriguing design drawings, deemed more fitting for the Swedish Saab Club. These drawings, loaned by Saab enthusiast Bosse Lindman, revealed that Saab had early plans for a 4-wheel-drive sports car, reinforcing the rumors circulating among enthusiasts.
The Historical Context
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the automotive industry was ripe for innovation. Saab, known for its aircraft heritage and engineering excellence, was poised to introduce the Sonett IV to a market eager for high-performance sports cars. The design team, including Bert Grahn and Douglas Hollendorf under Björn Andreasson’s leadership, proposed a forward-thinking concept that, if realized, could have significantly influenced sports car design and performance. However, financial constraints and shifting market priorities led to the project’s cancellation.
Reflecting on Saab’s Unfulfilled Potential
The Saab Sonett IV remains a fascinating “what if” in automotive history. While it never made it to production, its design and concept continue to inspire car enthusiasts and designers. The legacy of the Sonett series serves as a testament to Saab’s innovative spirit and its potential to revolutionize the sports car industry. The discussions and retrospectives within the Saab community keep this legacy alive, reminding us of the brilliance that could have been.
For more detailed discussions and visual retrospectives on Saab’s Sonett series, you can visit Racestripe Magazine and join the conversations in Saab enthusiast groups on Facebook.
Additionally, you can explore comprehensive archives on the Sonett models on the Swedish Saab Sonett Club’s website.
