In an enthralling tale interwoven with the threads of automotive history, dedicated enthusiasts, and the allure of restoration, Peter Kalgraff, a prominent member of the Saab Turbo Club of Sweden, recently became the proud owner of a truly exceptional find – an elusive Saab 9-5 that boasts a remarkable story of transformation.
Emerging from the illustrious “Saab Special Vehicle” division, known for its adeptness in crafting vehicles for specific purposes like law enforcement and emergency services, this particular Saab 9-5 SportWagon, bearing the license plate “XSE 548,” was meticulously engineered to serve as a specialized police vehicle.
Enhanced engine capabilities, a reinforced chassis, and custom features bespoke to law enforcement needs were seamlessly integrated, along with a distinctive hue of pristine white. However, as the narrative unfolds, the Saab’s journey took a unique twist.
In the subsequent chapters of its life, under Peter’s stewardship, this Saab 9-5 underwent a transformation that adds depth to its tale. Embarking on this restoration journey, Peter found himself at an auction where the Saab was listed with the caveat of “no service documentation.” Yet, a comprehensive service history, meticulously chronicling its past, was later unveiled, quelling any uncertainties. A minor “electrical hiccup” that raised initial concerns was promptly resolved, affirming the vehicle’s enduring resilience.
Peter’s Account: Navigating the Restoration Path
As the Saab transitioned into its role as an ambulance, it donned a vibrant “Ambulance Yellow” coat, a hue that later revealed its specific color code. Peter’s acquisition of the vehicle was marked by unexpected revelations and surprises. Beyond the uncertainty surrounding its history, the Saab’s journey took an unforeseen twist, leading Peter to delve into its intricacies. Fuelled by its unique condition – a rarity attributed to Sweden’s corrosive winters – Peter embarked on a mission to restore the Saab to its original splendor.
The restoration process required a meticulous approach. Prior to its roadworthiness, Peter undertook the replacement of the starter motor and a light bulb. Additionally, the vehicle underwent a simplified registration inspection, transitioning it from an emergency response vehicle to a standard automobile. This was followed by a conventional technical inspection, ensuring the Saab met all regulatory standards.
As Peter’s restoration endeavors continued, he narrated the Saab’s history, revealing that it spent its early years as a white police cruiser in Trollhättan. Its transformation into an ambulance coated in the vivid “Ambulance Yellow” marked a shift in purpose, culminating in its service as a command vehicle for the municipal rescue services in Överkalix since 2010. While remarkably free of rust, the Saab still required a touch of care to achieve its former an ambulance coated in the vivid “Ambulance Yellow” glory. With a robust B235R engine generating 260 horsepower, mated to an automatic transmission, and boasting a black leather interior, the Saab holds an unmistakable charm.
The story draws to an exciting crescendo as Peter envisions the meticulous restoration that lies ahead, combining his passion with the Saab’s unique history. In a landscape marked by rust-ridden counterparts, this Saab stands as a testament to its resilience against the elements and serves as a canvas for Peter’s restoration aspirations.
A Tale of Transformation and Restoration
In a tale that fuses the allure of specialized vehicles, the dedication of their owners, and the thrill of restoration, Peter Kalgraff’s journey takes center stage. With the Saab’s journey spanning from a white police cruiser to a vibrant ambulance, the narrative resonates with the power of history and the dedication of collectors like Peter. Amidst the challenges of corrosive winters, this Saab stands as a symbol of durability, ready for the skilled touch of restoration that Peter’s passion promises to deliver.
I guess “law enforcement” and “lifesaver” has contradictory meanings in more than 1 place in the world
I have witnessed this car many times in Trollhättan when it was stationed at our hospital as an emergency first responder. We used to drive SAAB’s test vehicles as well when I used to work at Taxi Trollhättan. I was one of the first person ever to drive the Saab 9-3 SC as a taxi (test vehicle ) to Oslo Norway in late 2004 or early 2005. I remembered people turning around on the streets of Oslo when they saw the new 9-3SC as a taxi.
I bought my first Saab from the owner of that! He told me that despite it being listed without a service history, he had found it lying in the glove box first thing that happened when he got it.
( it’s a joke:) If you’re not insured, and you call this aid, it’s gonna be an Acute bill. ( AKUTBIL) 😝
-A noble use for a SAAB. 😎
I had this as my screensaver for a while, I love it. It’s almost as vulgar as Matty’s giant bogey
l tbh I do like matts car I do like fairly viberant colours on the Skodas the A7 Octavia vrs is probs my fav lol