Table of Contents
- 1 Unveiling a Rally Icon: The 1957 Saab 93A
- 2 The 2011 Restoration: Breathing New Life into a Classic
- 3 Mille Miglia Storica Participation: A Testament to Performance
- 4 Technical Marvel: Engineered for Rally Success
- 5 Authentic Interiors: A Blend of Comfort and Functionality
- 6 The Auction: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
- 7 Seller’s Remarks: Confidence in Quality
- 8 Conclusion: A Legacy Awaiting Its Next Chapter
Unveiling a Rally Icon: The 1957 Saab 93A
Following our recent article about the only Saab that participated in the final official “Mille Miglia” race, we now have the opportunity to present a similar historically significant car that took part in the “Mille Miglia Storica,” a revival series that is more celebratory than competitive.
The 1957 Saab 93A isn’t just a classic car; it’s a symbol of innovation and a testament to Saab’s pioneering spirit in motorsports. Emerging from an era when Saab was leveraging its aerospace expertise to revolutionize automotive design, the 93A showcased aerodynamic efficiency and advanced engineering that were years ahead of its time.
This particular 93A, chassis number 34542, holds a special place in automotive history. Initially delivered in Sweden, it became a beacon of Saab’s rally ambitions. Its participation in prestigious events like the Mille Miglia Storica cements its status as a genuine piece of racing heritage. Now, this meticulously restored vehicle offers enthusiasts a rare opportunity to own a living legend.
The 2011 Restoration: Breathing New Life into a Classic
In 2011, the Saab community was abuzz when blogger Steven Wade, known as “Swade,” chronicled the restoration of this very 93A. The comprehensive restoration was not just about preserving the car’s appearance but reviving its rallying spirit. The project aimed to prepare the vehicle for the grueling demands of the Mille Miglia Storica, ensuring it wasn’t just a showpiece but a fully functional rally car.
Key aspects of the restoration included:
- Engine Overhaul: The 750cc two-stroke inline-three engine was tuned by Bengt-Erik Ström, a former mechanic from Saab’s competition department. His expertise ensured the engine delivered optimal performance, reportedly around 45 horsepower.
- Authentic Detailing: The car was refinished in its original gray, maintaining historical accuracy. Red fender accents and Mille Miglia decals were applied to honor its racing pedigree.
- Interior Upgrades: The cabin received attention with red vinyl-trimmed bucket seats featuring striped cloth inserts, combining comfort with period-correct aesthetics. Modern safety features like Sabelt multi-point harnesses were discreetly integrated.
Swade’s documentation provided invaluable insights into the restoration process, highlighting the dedication to authenticity and performance that guided every decision.
Read about the restoration journey here.
Mille Miglia Storica Participation: A Testament to Performance
The car’s participation in the 2009 and 2010 Mille Miglia Storica events is a testament to its capabilities. In 2009, it was driven by Hans-Göran Persson, a former Saab board member, showcasing the brand’s commitment from the highest levels. The following year, Jan Åke Jonsson, then CEO of Saab, took the wheel, further elevating the car’s prominence.
During these events, the 93A wasn’t just a participant; it was a crowd favorite, embodying the spirit of classic rallying. The car endured the challenging Italian roads, demonstrating the robust engineering and reliability of Saab vehicles from that era. An incident in 2010 led to damage on the right rear fender, but the car was promptly repaired, underscoring the team’s dedication to maintaining its pristine condition.
Learn more about the Mille Miglia Storica.
Technical Marvel: Engineered for Rally Success
Under the hood, the 93A is a showcase of Saab’s engineering prowess. The 750cc two-stroke engine, while modest in displacement, delivers spirited performance thanks to expert tuning by Bengt-Erik Ström. His work ensured that the engine met the rigorous demands of rally racing, optimizing both power and reliability.
The vehicle features a column-shifted four-speed manual transaxle, providing seamless gear changes essential for competitive driving. The front-wheel-drive layout was innovative for its time, offering superior traction and handling on diverse terrains—a significant advantage in rally conditions.
The suspension system, equipped with coil springs, and four-wheel drum brakes were meticulously maintained to ensure safety and performance. Every mechanical aspect of the car was addressed during the restoration, making it not just historically accurate but also fully functional for modern rally events.
Authentic Interiors: A Blend of Comfort and Functionality
The interior of the 93A balances vintage charm with practical upgrades. The red vinyl bucket seats with striped cloth inserts are both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable for long drives. The addition of Sabelt multi-point harnesses enhances safety without detracting from the classic look.
A notable feature is the Halda Tripmaster, an essential tool for rally drivers, allowing precise measurement of distance and speed. The Saab Sport wood-rimmed steering wheel adds a touch of elegance and provides excellent grip for dynamic driving.
While the car retains its original gauges and instrumentation, including a 140-km/h speedometer and VDO gauges, modern touches have been thoughtfully integrated. The balance between originality and functionality makes the cabin a delightful space for both driver and navigator.
The Auction: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
This exceptional 1957 Saab 93A is currently listed on Bring a Trailer, with a current bid of $2,200 and six days remaining. Offered by ImageStreetClassics on behalf of the owner, the car is located in Naarden, Netherlands.
The sale includes:
- FIVA Identity Card
- Mille Miglia Registro Eligibility Certificate
- Manufacturer’s Literature
- Memorabilia and Tool Kit
The vehicle is registered in the Netherlands and, while it doesn’t come with a traditional title, the Dutch registration is internationally recognized. This is more than a sale; it’s an invitation to become a custodian of a significant piece of automotive history.
View the auction listing for full details.
Seller’s Remarks: Confidence in Quality
ImageStreetClassics, as the first European Local Partner for Bring a Trailer, expresses enthusiasm in presenting this Mille Miglia alumnus. They highlight their commitment to providing a seamless experience for bidders, including assistance with international shipping.
Their confidence in the vehicle’s quality and heritage is evident, assuring potential buyers of the authenticity and exceptional condition of the car. This level of support and transparency adds significant value to the purchase, ensuring peace of mind for collectors.
Contact ImageStreetClassics directly for inquiries.
Conclusion: A Legacy Awaiting Its Next Chapter
The 1957 Saab 93A is not merely a classic car; it’s a narrative of innovation, endurance, and passion. From its groundbreaking design and engineering to its storied participation in the Mille Miglia Storica, the vehicle encapsulates the very essence of Saab’s legacy.
Owning this car means becoming part of a lineage that celebrates automotive excellence and rally heritage. It’s an opportunity to not just preserve history but to actively participate in it, perhaps even continuing its rally journey in future events.
For enthusiasts and collectors, this is a rare chance to acquire a fully restored, historically significant vehicle that stands as a tribute to Saab’s indelible mark on the world of motorsports.
