A Saab Time Capsule in Italy: Discovering the Zanetti Omero Showroom and Its Enduring Legacy

The Legacy of Zanetti Omero: A Saab Journey Since 1982

For over four decades, Zanetti Omero has been a beacon for Saab enthusiasts not just in Pordenone, Italy, but across Europe. Established in 1982, this family-run dealership became synonymous with the Saab brand, serving as a vital connection between Italy and the iconic Swedish automobiles.

Starting as a partner with the importer SIDAUTO, Zanetti Omero quickly became the go-to place for anyone passionate about Saab. Even today, long after Saab ceased production, the Zanetti family remains devoted to the brand, preserving a slice of automotive history within their unique Saab Unlimited Showroom.

Stepping into the Past: The Saab Unlimited Showroom Experience

Walking into the Zanetti Omero showroom is like stepping into a time capsule. The space has been meticulously maintained to reflect the glory days of Saab, particularly as it was in 2011, the last full year of production before the company declared bankruptcy.

Inside, you’ll find two pristine Saab models from that era: a brand-new Saab 9-3 SportCombi with only 100 kilometers on the odometer and a beautifully restored Saab 9-5ng. The showroom is complete with original Saab signs, posters, brochures, and even the distinctive yellow Saab bicycle, making it one of the last places in Europe where you can truly relive the Saab experience.

The Zanetti Omero Collection: A Saab Enthusiast’s Dream

The Zanetti family doesn’t just showcase Saabs; they also maintain an impressive collection of these cars. In addition to the vehicles on display in their showroom, they house a variety of rare and classic Saab models in their collection, including a 1984 Saab 900 Turbo five-door—a rarity even among Saab aficionados.

The collection also features a range of models like the Saab 900 Coupe, Saab 900 Cabriolet, and a Saab 9-7X V8, all lovingly maintained and restored to their original glory. These vehicles are not just for show; many are available for purchase, offering Saab fans a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history.

A Hub for Saab Service: Keeping the Brand Alive

Zanetti Omero is more than just a showroom; it’s also a fully operational service center where Saab owners from all over Italy and beyond come to maintain their beloved vehicles. Despite branching out into selling Honda vehicles, the Zanetti family continues to dedicate a significant portion of their business to Saab, servicing everything from the latest models to older classics. The dealership’s reputation for expertise and care has made it a pilgrimage site for Saab enthusiasts who want to ensure their cars are in the best possible hands.

A Family’s Dedication: Enrico and Mauricio Zanetti’s Passion for Saab

At the heart of Zanetti Omero’s enduring success are Enrico and Mauricio Zanetti, who have carried on the legacy started by their father, Omero Zanetti. Their passion for Saab is palpable, and it’s clear that they view their work as more than just a business—it’s a way of life.

They have preserved every detail of the Saab dealership as it was in 2011, from the showroom layout to the furniture and decor, making their dealership a living museum dedicated to Saab. This dedication extends to their personal lives as well; many of the Saabs they sell are part of their personal collection, which they lovingly maintain and occasionally drive themselves.

A Destination for Saab Enthusiasts Across Europe

Zanetti Omero has become a destination for Saab lovers from all corners of Europe. Enthusiasts travel great distances to visit the dealership, whether to service their cars, purchase a rare model, or simply immerse themselves in the Saab experience. The dealership’s website, zanettiomero.com, offers a glimpse into the vehicles they have for sale and the services they provide, but nothing compares to visiting in person. For those lucky enough to make the trip, it’s an opportunity to step back in time and experience Saab’s last great era in a way that’s increasingly rare in today’s world.

The Saab 9-3 SportCombi: A Rare Find in Perfect Condition

One of the crown jewels of the Zanetti Omero showroom is a brand-new Saab 9-3 SportCombi, a model that has become a symbol of what could have been for Saab. With only 100 kilometers on the odometer, this car represents one of the last Saabs ever produced, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item.

The Zanetti family has preserved it in pristine condition, offering it as a rare opportunity for a Saab enthusiast to own a virtually untouched piece of the brand’s legacy. As we wrote about this vehicle in a previous blog post, it remains one of the few new Saabs available in the world today.

The Saab 9-7X V8: A Unique Saab Experience

Another standout in the Zanetti Omero collection is the Saab 9-7X V8, a model that holds a special place in Saab history. Built on a GM platform, the 9-7X was Saab’s attempt to break into the SUV market, offering a unique blend of Swedish design and American muscle.

While it may not be the first car that comes to mind when thinking of Saab, the 9-7X V8 has garnered a loyal following over the years, and the Zanetti family’s dedication to preserving this model is a testament to their commitment to the brand’s entire history.

Marcus & Manuela’s Saab Channel: A Journey Through Saab’s Legacy

The visit to Zanetti Omero by Marcus Bergfeldt and his partner Manuela from the “Marcus & Manuela’s Saab Channel” was more than just a stop on their European tour; it was a celebration of Saab’s enduring legacy. Their YouTube channel has become a popular destination for Saab fans worldwide, and their video from the Zanetti showroom offers a detailed look at this unique dealership. Be sure to watch this video of their visit to the Zanetti car house:

With over 220,000 views on TikTok and Instagram, their visit has sparked renewed interest in Saab, reminding fans of the brand’s rich history and the passionate community that continues to support it.

Preserving Saab’s Legacy for Future Generations

The Zanetti Omero dealership is not just a business; it’s a living tribute to Saab and the passionate community that has kept the brand alive long after its production ended. Through their dedication to preserving the showroom, maintaining a vast collection of cars, and continuing to offer expert service, the Zanetti family ensures that Saab’s legacy will endure for future generations. Whether you’re a long-time Saab owner or a newcomer to the brand, a visit to Zanetti Omero is a must for anyone who wants to experience the true spirit of Saab.

In a world where Saab dealerships have become increasingly rare, Zanetti Omero stands out as a beacon for enthusiasts across Europe. From their meticulously preserved showroom to their vast collection of Saab models, the Zanetti family’s dedication to the brand is unparalleled. Whether you’re looking to buy a Saab, service your vehicle, or simply immerse yourself in Saab history, Zanetti Omero offers an experience like no other.