The celebration of the opening of the southern ring road in Groningen was nothing short of spectacular, with 120 SAABs rolling in to mark this special occasion. It wasn’t just an ordinary car event—it was a full-fledged experience that blended camaraderie, passion for cars, and a nostalgic nod to an iconic automotive brand.
For everyone involved, this drive along the newly unveiled stretch of road was much more than a leisurely cruise. Let’s dive into the unique atmosphere that turned this into an unforgettable event for all SAAB owners, drivers, and car enthusiasts alike.
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A Unique Experience: SAABs on Parade
Groningen’s new southern ring road has never seen a sight like this before: 120 SAABs, in all shapes, sizes, and colors, gathered to celebrate the road’s opening. Anna Rypkema, a 66-year-old driver from IJlst, was among the participants, proudly driving her bordeaux red SAAB 9-3 convertible. Like many others, Anna described this as a “once in a lifetime” opportunity.
From white to black, and everything in between, the SAABs transformed the parking lot by the Gamma at Osloweg into a sea of happy, enthusiastic car owners, all eager to explore the fresh asphalt together. “The vibe was immediately good when we arrived. Everywhere you looked, there were happy drivers,” Anna mentioned, recalling the excitement that filled the air.
As Anna prepared her car, she even had a special SAAB jacket designed just for this occasion, and she added a practical touch—an accessory to hold her phone right within reach for the journey ahead. This gathering wasn’t just about the drive; it was about being part of a unique car community with shared experiences, memories, and of course, a love for SAABs.
The Joy Before the Drive: Bonding Over SAABs
Before the procession even started, participants were already enjoying themselves, laughing, chatting, and making new connections. “Honestly, the anticipation and hanging out with all the SAABs was actually more fun than the drive itself,” Anna admitted. She wasn’t the only one who felt that way, as several drivers were busy sharing stories of their own beloved SAABs.
Take, for example, Hunter Sandman, a 20-year-old student who brought his black SAAB 93 from Groningen. Although it’s not his first SAAB, it’s the only one he currently owns, having received it when he turned 18. For Hunter, it was a milestone car, a gift from his parents, a rite of passage into adulthood. “It felt like a big deal at that age,” he recalled. He proudly added that he even paid for part of it himself. And while Hunter mentioned he might prefer a Porsche 944 someday, for now, his heart is still with SAAB.
This sentiment echoed throughout the group. Martin Smit, a 55-year-old SAAB owner from Borger, drove his SAAB 93 Aero estate, chuckling that he’s been told by “non-SAAB people” that he drives something quirky. “They think they’re a bit special, because it’s not a BMW or Audi,” Martin said, “but SAAB fits well in that mid-range. I think it’s charming, something a bit different.” And clearly, those differences brought everyone together in a delightful, shared moment of nostalgia.
SAAB and the Road: The Joy of Driving
Once the claxon sounded and the cars began to move, it was a sight to behold. The rumbling of engines filled the air as the convoy of SAABs slowly made its way toward the newly opened road. The journey was symbolic—not just for the opening of the ring road, but for the connection between driver and machine.
Anna, in particular, had a special connection to the road itself. With her children studying in Groningen, she was no stranger to the ring road, making this occasion feel personal. “You ride through the city as if you’re at home, in familiar territory,” she said. For Anna, the new road wasn’t just fresh asphalt; it was a piece of infrastructure that linked her past experiences to this unique celebration.
Drivers maneuvered their cars toward the Saabrug, a small bridge symbolic of the entire event. The spectacle was not just about SAAB owners taking over the road, but rather a collective experience that brought back the thrill of being behind the wheel of a truly special vehicle.
Laughter, Claxon, and SAAB Spirit
As the cars paraded down the road, something magical happened. Laughter filled the air, and every SAAB driver seemed to be in sync, honking their horns in unison, creating a joyful symphony. Anna found herself laughing as she honked alongside other SAABs, even remarking on the Kia drivers who joined the parade. “Oh, look at that! A Kia among the SAABs!” she exclaimed, showing the inclusive and fun nature of the event.
The SAAB community, always a tight-knit group, was in full force that day, with everyone feeding off each other’s energy. There were even moments of controlled chaos, with police officers and traffic controllers managing the growing enthusiasm. And yet, despite the chaos, the atmosphere was one of happiness and shared excitement. “It was one big party from start to finish,” Anna said with a wide smile.
But beyond the fun, there was also a deep sense of connection. “Whenever I see another SAAB on the road, I always raise my hand. That’s what you do. It’s just like sailors greeting each other,” Anna explained, highlighting the unique bond that SAAB drivers share, even outside of special events like this.
The Future of SAAB: A Legacy That Lives On
While the event was certainly a celebration of Groningen’s new southern ring road, it was also a testament to the enduring legacy of the SAAB brand. Though SAAB ceased automobile production in 2011, the passion for these Swedish cars is still very much alive. “There’s just something about a SAAB,” one participant noted, “it’s reliable, it’s quirky, and it’s got history.”
Many attendees echoed the sentiment that driving a SAAB is more than just about transportation; it’s about driving a piece of history. Despite newer car brands dominating the market, SAAB enthusiasts feel a deep connection to their vehicles and the SAAB community. Events like this keep that passion burning brightly, and many believe that the love for SAAB will continue for generations to come.
A Drive to Remember
As the last SAABs cleared the parking lot and the festivities wound down, one thing was clear—this wasn’t just a casual gathering. It was a celebration of more than just a new road. It was a celebration of history, community, and a shared love for an iconic car brand that refuses to be forgotten.
Anna Rypkema summed it up best: “The fun before the drive was actually better than the drive itself.” For these SAAB owners, it wasn’t about speed or fancy features. It was about camaraderie, tradition, and sharing the road—both old and new—with friends, family, and fellow SAAB lovers.
Whether it’s the sound of the engine, the feel of the road beneath the wheels, or simply the joy of seeing another SAAB on the highway, it’s clear that for these drivers, the legacy of SAAB is alive and well. And as long as events like this continue, that legacy will never fade.
