Ultra-Rare 1951 SAAB 92 De Luxe Surfaces—A Once-in-a-Lifetime Auction Opportunity

An extraordinary piece of automotive history has emerged on the auction scene: a meticulously restored 1951 SAAB 92 De Luxe. With an estimated value between 200,000 and 220,000 SEK, this rare gem is already attracting significant attention, with the current highest bid at 151,314 SEK.

As the auction at Bilwebauctions wraps up on October 10th at 11:10, enthusiasts worldwide are gearing up for a bidding war. This is more than just a car; it’s a tangible piece of SAAB’s pioneering legacy, and it could soon be yours.

A Rare Find: The 1951 SAAB 92 De Luxe

The SAAB 92 De Luxe is not just any classic car; it’s a symbol of innovation and Swedish engineering prowess from the early 1950s. Produced in limited numbers, the 1951 model is particularly coveted due to its lower chassis number and unique features that set it apart from later iterations. This specific model embodies the pioneering spirit of SAAB, a company renowned for its commitment to safety, aerodynamics, and front-wheel-drive technology.

What makes this vehicle exceptionally rare is its condition and authenticity. Many SAAB 92s have succumbed to the ravages of time, but this De Luxe has been lovingly restored to its original glory, preserving its historical integrity. Collectors and enthusiasts recognize the significance of such a find, making it a highly sought-after piece in the classic car market.

Tracing the Car’s Storied History

This remarkable vehicle, bearing chassis number 2429, was first registered on August 7, 1951, to a forest ranger named Larsson from Österfärnebo. Recognizing the advantages of front-wheel drive for navigating snowy forest roads, Larsson made a savvy choice that reflected SAAB’s innovative advertising at the time. The car’s early life in the rugged terrains of Sweden is a testament to its durability and the practical genius of its design.

After Larsson, the SAAB 92 De Luxe passed through the hands of four different owners in the Gävle region until 1966. It then moved to the Sandviken area, where it had three more owners until 1970. At that point, it fell out of the Swedish car registry, becoming a hidden gem lost to the annals of automotive history. The car’s disappearance for several decades only adds to its mystique, making its resurgence all the more exciting for the SAAB community.

A Labor of Love: Two Decades of Restoration

Fast forward to the year 2000, when the current owner discovered this classic in Dala-Järna, painted in a cream-white shade far from its original hue. What followed was a 20-year meticulous restoration project completed between 2001 and 2020. The owner’s dedication to authenticity and detail is nothing short of extraordinary.

Key restoration highlights include:

• Complete floor replacement: Addressing structural integrity to ensure longevity.
• Renovated fenders and suspension: Restoring the car’s original handling characteristics.
• Rebuilt engine and gearbox: Bringing the mechanical heart of the vehicle back to life.
• Repainted in the authentic 1951 green: The only color used that year, ensuring historical accuracy.
• Interior refurbishment: Upholding the original design ethos with high-quality materials.

The odometer was reset upon completion, and the car has since covered a mere 699 kilometers, mainly during testing and occasional drives to maintain mechanical health. The owner’s investment of time, resources, and passion is evident in every nut and bolt, making this SAAB 92 De Luxe a standout example of classic car restoration.

Technical Excellence and Authentic Aesthetics

No expense was spared in returning this SAAB 92 De Luxe to its former glory. The interior has been masterfully refurbished, featuring reupholstered seats and door panels that adhere to the original style. Attention to detail is paramount, evident in features like leather door straps—a nod to the craftsmanship of the era. The pristine original dashboard is adorned with functional bakelite buttons and gauges, and the original steering wheel remains intact, offering a tactile connection to the car’s storied past.

Externally, the vehicle boasts professionally restored bodywork, free of rust and imperfections. The undercarriage remains untreated with modern underbody coatings like Tectyl, showcasing the green painted underside as it would have appeared in 1951. This decision not only maintains historical accuracy but also allows potential buyers to inspect the vehicle’s structural condition without obstructions. The chrome details gleam, and the renovated steel wheels with shiny chrome hubcaps complement the car’s vintage charm.

Mechanical aspects are equally impressive. The engine bay is clean, well-organized, and indicative of meticulous care. The 19 kW (26 hp) engine, while modest by today’s standards, delivers a genuine driving experience reminiscent of the early days of motoring. The front-wheel-drive system provides better traction, a feature that was revolutionary at the time and remains practical even today.

Auction Details: A Chance Not to Be Missed

This exceptional SAAB 92 De Luxe is being auctioned due to both the car and its owner “growing old,” as the seller humbly puts it. The auction is hosted by Bilwebauctions and concludes on October 10th at 11:10. With the current bid at 151,314 SEK and expectations of it reaching up to 220,000 SEK, this is a unique opportunity for collectors and SAAB aficionados to acquire a piece of automotive history.

Important details for potential bidders:

• First registration date: September 16, 2020 (post-restoration)
• Year model: 1951/1951
• Engine power: 19 kW / 26 hp
• Mileage since restoration: 699 km
• No trunk lid: Luggage is accessed from behind the passenger seat, staying true to the original design.

The car is in impeccable technical condition. No mechanical issues have been detected; everything functions as it should. The vehicle is equipped with excellent tires mounted on beautifully restored steel rims. This SAAB 92 De Luxe is not just ready to drive; it’s ready to win awards at classic car shows.

Why This SAAB 92 De Luxe Matters

Owning this car isn’t just about possessing a classic vehicle; it’s about preserving a significant piece of SAAB’s legacy. The SAAB 92 was the company’s first production car, and the De Luxe model represents the pinnacle of their early efforts in automotive engineering. This car is a testament to SAAB’s innovative design philosophy, from its aerodynamic body—a result of SAAB’s aircraft design heritage—to its reliable front-wheel-drive system, which was a rarity in its time.

For enthusiasts and collectors alike, this vehicle offers:

• Historical significance: As one of the earliest models, it represents the genesis of SAAB’s automotive journey.
• Authenticity: Restored to original specifications, it’s a living museum piece.
• Investment potential: Classic cars of this caliber often appreciate in value, especially those with documented histories and meticulous restorations.
• Driving pleasure: Experience the charm and simplicity of 1950s motoring, a stark contrast to today’s technologically laden vehicles.

The Broader Impact on the SAAB Community

The emergence of this SAAB 92 De Luxe at auction has sent ripples through the SAAB community worldwide. It serves as a reminder of the brand’s innovative roots and the passionate following that SAAB continues to enjoy, even after ceasing production in 2012. This auction is not just a sale; it’s a celebration of SAAB’s enduring legacy.

Online forums and enthusiast groups are abuzz with discussions about the car. Many are speculating on the final bid, while others reminisce about their experiences with SAAB vehicles. The auction has rekindled interest in SAAB classics, potentially inspiring others to embark on restoration projects of their own.

A Legacy Continues

As the auction deadline approaches, the excitement among SAAB enthusiasts is palpable. This 1951 SAAB 92 De Luxe is not just a car; it’s a living piece of history, embodying the innovation and passion that defined SAAB’s early years. The opportunity to acquire such a well-preserved and carefully restored example is exceedingly rare.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this car’s ongoing story. Place your bids and perhaps become the next proud owner of this extraordinary SAAB classic. Owning it means becoming a steward of automotive history, ensuring that the legacy of SAAB continues to inspire future generations.

For more information and to place your bid, visit the Bilwebauctions listing.

Update

Car is sold on auction for $23,000.