Nostalgia Unveiled: Exploring a Hidden Time Capsule of Abandoned Saab Cars

In a recent video from the Forgotten Buildings YouTube channel, Jessey takes us on a captivating journey into an abandoned Saab dealership in France. This forgotten establishment, once a thriving hub, has remained empty for over 20 years, preserving a collection of cars that tell the tale of Saab’s demise. Let’s delve into the history of this dealership and the captivating discoveries made within its walls.

The Rise and Fall of the Saab Dealership

The dealership, which opened its doors in 1972, served as a testament to Saab’s popularity in its prime. It shared its building with a Husqvarna store and was run by two brothers who had a passion for the Saab brand. For many years, this dealership thrived, catering to Saab enthusiasts and showcasing the brand’s innovative and stylish vehicles.

However, unfortunate circumstances befell the business when one of the brothers fell ill. This sudden setback led to the closure of the dealership, leaving behind a time capsule of approximately 20 Saab cars that had been left untouched for decades. These forgotten vehicles represent a variety of Saab models, including the 9-3s, 9-5s, and the timeless 9000s.

A Glimpse into the Forgotten Past

Upon entering the dealership, Jessey discovers a scene frozen in time. The showroom, though showing signs of neglect and vandalism, still proudly displays two 9-3s and a 9-5. The faded brochures and missing components hint at the passage of time, but remnants of the past, such as paint samples and upholstery offerings, line the walls, offering a glimpse into the dealership’s heyday.

The workshop holds even more surprises, with additional Saabs and French classics from Citroen, Peugeot, and Renault awaiting attention. Dust-covered but largely intact, these vehicles serve as prime candidates for restoration. With the help of dedicated automotive enthusiasts and some tender loving care, these cars could potentially return to the open road, breathing new life into the once-thriving dealership.

A Treasure Trove for Saab Enthusiasts

Beyond the cars themselves, the workshop holds a treasure trove of spare parts, including engine blocks. These components are invaluable to Saab specialists, as they could potentially revive many 9-3s, 9-5s, and 9000s that are still roaming the streets. The dealership’s forgotten inventory provides a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to find rare and hard-to-find parts that are essential for the restoration of these iconic vehicles.

Preserving Saab’s Legacy

The closure of Saab in 2011 marked the end of an era for the brand. However, the legacy of Saab lives on through dedicated automotive enthusiasts and the remnants of forgotten dealerships like this one. Despite the passage of time, these cars stand as a testament to Saab’s unique design and engineering prowess, waiting for the chance to be restored and appreciated once more.

The Forgotten Buildings YouTube channel, through its exploration of this abandoned Saab dealership in France, brings to light the rich history of a once-thriving establishment. With its collection of forgotten cars and a workshop filled with spare parts, this dealership serves as a time capsule, reminding us of Saab’s rise and fall.

The story of this dealership resonates with car enthusiasts, capturing their imagination and inspiring the restoration of these iconic Saab vehicles. As we explore the forgotten places of the world, we gain a deeper appreciation for the legacies they leave behind and the stories they have to tell.