It’s not every day you see a 1977 Saab 96 transformed into something as unique as Joakim Söderqvist’s V4 Jocke XXS. Originally a four-seater sedan, this Saab has been reshaped into a striking yellow convertible, measuring just three meters long.
Built in his garage in Årsunda, Sweden, Joakim’s creation has become a sensation in Saab circles. With a passion for motorsport running through his veins, Joakim’s rebuild isn’t just a mechanical marvel—it’s a testament to his creativity and dedication to the Saab brand.
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From Four Meters to Three: The Journey of the V4 Jocke XXS
Joakim’s project began with a clear goal: to create a car that would stand out from the crowd. His original 1977 V4 measured 4.20 meters, but after countless hours of work and ingenuity, he managed to shorten the vehicle by over a meter. This dramatic transformation gives the Jocke XXS its unmistakable compact appearance.
The process, which started in October 2020, took nearly a year, with the car hitting the road in September 2021.
The result? A bold, sporty roadster that leaves no doubt about its uniqueness. Its eye-catching yellow paint job, coupled with the drastically reduced length, ensures that Joakim’s Saab gets attention wherever it goes.
Why a Convertible? Joakim’s Vision
Joakim’s dream was always to own a convertible. He admits that he once aspired to drive a Porsche, but finances made that dream impractical. Instead, he turned his attention to his trusted Saab V4, a car he had owned for years. While many would settle for a standard renovation, Joakim wanted more.
The decision to cut the roof off and transform the Saab into a convertible was just the beginning of what would become a much larger project. His vision was clear: create a car that reflects his love for Saab while also satisfying his desire for a fun, head-turning ride.
A Head-Turner on the Saab Scene
Since its debut, the V4 Jocke XXS has become a familiar sight at Saab gatherings across Sweden, including the renowned Saab Festival in Trollhättan. It’s also garnered significant attention online, with Saab enthusiasts from all over the world admiring Joakim’s craftsmanship. The car’s compact size and sporty design make it a true conversation starter at every event it attends.
Not only does the V4 Jocke XXS look like a blast to drive, but it also has that unmistakable Saab DNA that resonates with fans of the brand. The wide, black wheels and lowered stance give it a modern, aggressive look, contrasting sharply with the soft curves of the original 1977 design.
What’s Under the Hood?
Despite the drastic changes to the car’s appearance, Joakim has kept the original V4 engine. This decision was intentional, as he wanted to maintain some of the car’s historical authenticity. The V4 engine, known for its durability and reliability, provides just enough power for the lightweight roadster. While it may not be a race car, Joakim’s creation is more than capable of turning heads on the open road.
A Rally Background
Joakim’s passion for motorsport goes beyond just building cars. He comes from a rallying family, with both his parents competing in rally events. Joakim himself is a Swedish rally champion, and his experience behind the wheel is evident in the precision and attention to detail in the V4 Jocke XXS build.
The yellow roadster may not be built for rallying, but it’s certainly a reflection of Joakim’s deep connection to motorsport. He jokes that while the Jocke XXS isn’t suited for rally stages, it’s perfect for cruising to the local beach for an ice cream.
The Saab Community’s Reaction
The Saab community has embraced Joakim’s build with open arms. At every event, the V4 Jocke XXS draws crowds of curious onlookers, many of whom are intrigued by the sheer audacity of the project. For many Saab enthusiasts, Joakim’s car represents the spirit of innovation that has long been associated with the Saab brand.
Even though the car no longer bears the official Saab name, as Joakim himself acknowledges, the essence of the brand is still present in every detail. From the quirky design to the mechanical ingenuity, the V4 Jocke XXS is a true homage to Saab’s legacy.
What’s Next for Joakim and the V4 Jocke XXS?
Joakim isn’t finished yet. While the V4 Jocke XXS is already a sensation, he plans to continue refining the car. Whether it’s tweaking the suspension or adding custom interior touches, Joakim is always thinking about the next step.
In the meantime, the V4 Jocke XXS will continue to be a star attraction at Saab events across Europe. And for Joakim, that’s enough—seeing the smiles and hearing the admiration of fellow Saab enthusiasts makes all the hard work worthwhile.
A Saab Lover Through and Through
Beyond the V4 Jocke XXS, Joakim is a dedicated Saab enthusiast. In addition to the yellow roadster, he owns two other Saab V4s, including a blue 1977 model that he’s restoring to its original condition. While the blue V4 remains true to its factory specs, the yellow Jocke XXS represents Joakim’s creative side. Both cars reflect his love for the Saab brand, and together they highlight the many ways in which these iconic Swedish cars can be appreciated.
Joakim Söderqvist’s incredible journey with the V4 Jocke XXS has been extensively covered in Swedish media, including by SVT Nyheter, where you can also watch a video featuring this talented rally driver and tuner. You can check out the full story and watch video here.
