Unveiling “Saab Stories”: A Deep Dive into Saab’s Legacy with Olly and Lauren

Embracing Saab’s Legacy: The Launch of “Saab Stories”

There’s a new beacon in the Saab community: the “Saab Stories” YouTube channel. Founded by a devoted enthusiast who acquired his first Saab in December ’23, the channel captures the essence of what makes Saab more than just a car brand. It’s about the community, the heritage, and the stories that bind Saab owners across the globe.

Growing up surrounded by Saabs, the founder’s journey is a testament to the brand’s impact on its loyal followers. With a mission to traverse the UK, he aims to spotlight owners, their cherished vehicles, and the fascinating tales that accompany them. His sentiment resonates: despite Saab’s closure years ago, the passion and affection for the marque remain undiminished.

Olly and Lauren: Guardians of Rare Saab Gems

In the latest episode titled “Talk Steer Ep8 – Practical vs Sports: a Saab love story”, we meet Olly and Lauren, a young couple with an extraordinary connection to Saab. They are proud owners of two exceptional models: the Saab 9-3X Griffin and the Saab 9-3 Independence Edition. Their journey with Saab isn’t just about cars; it’s a family legacy spanning generations.

The Saab 9-3 Independence Edition: A Rare Treasure

Lauren’s Saab 9-3 Independence Edition is not just any convertible; it’s a piece of Saab history. With its Amber Orange Metallic paint—a hue chosen by former CEO Victor Müller to honor the Netherlands—it stands out boldly on the road. This color was meant to symbolize a new era for Saab under Dutch ownership, and it’s exclusive to this limited edition.

What makes Lauren’s model even more special is its production number. It’s number 35 out of only 37 ever built, making it the second-to-last Independence Edition produced. Initially planned as a series of 366 units to celebrate Saab’s independence from General Motors, the unfortunate bankruptcy halted production prematurely. Owning such a rare vehicle is not just a privilege but a stewardship of Saab’s storied past.

The car boasts unique features:

• BBS Wheels: Specially selected by Saab, these wheels add a distinctive touch without venturing into aftermarket territory.
• Ice Block Headlights: Exclusive to the model year 2012, these headlights enhance the vehicle’s sleek appearance.
• Custom Trim: Due to the hand-built nature of the last units, Lauren’s car features a unique combination of chrome and black trims, likely a result of using remaining parts—a silent witness to Saab’s final days.

The Saab 9-3X Griffin: Olly’s Daily Companion

Olly’s Saab 9-3X Griffin is a testament to practicality meeting passion. As his daily driver for over three years and 45,000 miles, the car delivers exceptional performance and fuel efficiency. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Twin Turbo Diesel Engine: Offering remarkable fuel economy, it achieves 45-50 MPG in town and up to 65 MPG on long runs, often covering 700-750 miles on a single tank.
• Unique Styling: The Griffin model features updates like the ice block headlights, a larger center grille, and revised tailgate badging to align with Saab’s newer models.
• Interior Upgrades: Enhanced seats with distinctive patterns, Griffin tags, and carbon fiber-effect trims elevate the driving experience.

Interestingly, while the petrol version of the 9-3X came with all-wheel drive, the diesel did not—likely due to funding constraints during Saab’s tumultuous final years. Despite this, the car’s performance doesn’t disappoint.

A Legacy Rooted in Family and Community

For Olly, Saab is more than a brand—it’s family. His grandfather owned and operated a Saab dealership in Ipswich for over 40 years. This deep-rooted connection meant that Olly grew up amidst showrooms and workshops, fostering a lifelong passion. From his first Saab—a 9-3 estate—to restoring classic models like the 1977 Saab 99 EMS, Olly embodies the true spirit of a Saab enthusiast.

The couple’s commitment extends beyond ownership:

• Community Engagement: They cherish the camaraderie among Saab drivers, often exchanging waves and smiles on the road.
• Preserving History: Their collection includes award-winning barn finds and rare models, like the Saab 99 GLE in Sepia Brown.

Why Saab Still Matters

The allure of Saab lies in its uniqueness and the community it fosters. As Olly aptly puts it, driving a Saab means you can cover miles without seeing another car like yours. It’s a brand that has always marched to the beat of its own drum, offering innovative design and engineering that stand apart from mainstream manufacturers.

Join the Journey with “Saab Stories”

“Saab Stories“ isn’t just a YouTube channel; it’s a celebration of a brand that continues to inspire devotion. By sharing owner experiences like those of Olly and Lauren, the channel keeps the Saab spirit alive. Whether you’re a long-time Saab driver or new to the community, these stories offer a rich tapestry of history, passion, and camaraderie.

In a world where car brands come and go, Saab’s legacy endures through the hearts of its enthusiasts. Channels like “Saab Stories” play a crucial role in preserving this heritage. As we navigate the future of automotive innovation, it’s comforting to know that the soul of Saab lives on.