From Scrap to Supercar: The Resurrection of Tommy Gullberg’s Homemade “Saab Future”

A Dream Born Out of Necessity

When you can’t afford to buy a sports car, you build one yourself—that was the straightforward logic of Tommy Gullberg back in the summer of 1985. Sitting among friends, flipping through car magazines, Tommy realized that his financial situation would never allow him to own the sports car of his dreams. Instead of accepting defeat, he took matters into his own hands. With no plans, no blueprints, and no hesitation, Tommy embarked on an ambitious journey to create his very own supercar from scratch.

Crafting the Future: Building a Supercar by Hand

Armed with sheer determination and a knack for engineering, Tommy began constructing his masterpiece, aptly named the “SAAB Future.”

He had no formal design—just an unwavering vision. A friend’s father, a Saab dealer, granted him access to a scrapyard teeming with discarded Saab parts. Tommy scoured the yard for anything he could use, breathing new life into components that others had cast aside. Over that summer, piece by piece, the Future began to take shape, a testament to innovation and resourcefulness.

The Saab Foundation: A Car Built on Swedish Ingenuity

The Future wasn’t just any homemade car; it was a celebration of Saab’s engineering excellence. Utilizing parts from models like the Saab 9000, Tommy incorporated elements such as the distinctive taillights and a turbocharged engine that gave the car its heart and soul. The gull-wing doors, reminiscent of iconic supercars, added a flair that turned heads wherever it went. Tommy’s creation wasn’t merely a vehicle; it was a rolling homage to Saab’s legacy.

From Triumph to Törnrosasömn: A Long Winter’s Sleep

Tommy’s hard work paid off when he entered his creation into Saab’s Custom Competition. The judges were enamored, awarding him first prize amid standing ovations. But for Tommy, the car was still a work in progress. Unsatisfied with certain aspects, he disassembled the Future that winter to make improvements. What was meant to be a brief hiatus turned into a 35-year slumber. Life moved on, and the car remained in pieces, tucked away like a forgotten treasure.

The Resurrection: Bringing the Future Back to Life

Fast forward to last winter, and Tommy decided it was time. The Future deserved a second chance. With renewed energy, he set out to complete his masterpiece once and for all. Upgrades were made—a new turbo engine, an updated gearbox, fresh paint, and refined details that had lingered in his mind for decades. “Now, the car is exactly how I want it to be,” Tommy reflects. The resurrection was complete, and the Future was ready to hit the open road.

A Legacy on Wheels: The Future’s Impact Today

Driving the Future isn’t just about personal satisfaction for Tommy; it’s about sharing a story of perseverance and passion. Wherever he goes, the car garners attention. Petrolheads marvel at its unique design, and even those less inclined towards automotive enthusiasm can’t help but be intrigued. “A woman once told me it was the most beautiful car she had ever seen,” Tommy recalls for magazine Carup. Such moments make the journey worthwhile, reaffirming that his labor of love resonates with others.

An Inspiration for Aspiring Builders

Tommy’s journey is more than a personal achievement; it’s an inspiration. In a world where consumerism often overshadows creativity, his story reminds us that innovation doesn’t require a limitless budget—just passion, resourcefulness, and a willingness to get your hands dirty. For those dreaming of building their own cars or embarking on ambitious projects, Tommy’s experience serves as a roadmap to what’s possible when you dare to take the unconventional path.

The Future Rolls On: What’s Next for Tommy and His Creation

As spring approaches and the Swedish winds lose their chill, Tommy plans to take the Future out for many more drives. There are no intentions to sell; the car is a part of him—a rolling chronicle of his life’s work.

“Now, I’m just going to drive around with it,“ he says, content with the culmination of decades of effort. The Future isn’t just a car; it’s a legacy, a dream realized, and a story that continues to unfold every time it hits the road.

A Testament to Saab’s Spirit and Individual Ingenuity

In an era where automotive manufacturing is dominated by corporations and mass production, Tommy Gullberg’s homemade Saab Future stands as a beacon of individual ingenuity. It embodies the spirit of Saab, a brand known for its unique approach to car design and engineering. Tommy’s story is a powerful reminder that the most remarkable creations often come from those who dare to dream big and act boldly, regardless of the obstacles.