Preserving a Saab Legacy: The Remarkable Rescue of a Rare Saab 9000 SFT

In the heart of Bulgaria, a vibrant community of Saab enthusiasts gathered on June 22nd to celebrate their shared passion for the iconic Swedish brand. This year’s event was particularly special, marked by the astonishing rescue of a rare 1996 Saab 9000 SFT, a car with a unique history and an incredibly low mileage of just 25,000 kilometers.

Igor Stankov, whose family has been in the Saab parts business since the company’s bankruptcy, shared this captivating story. Here’s a detailed look into the event and the exceptional Saab 9000 SFT that became its highlight.

A Gathering of Saab Enthusiasts in Bulgaria

Each year, Saab aficionados from across Bulgaria and beyond converge to celebrate the legacy of Saab automobiles. This year’s gathering was no exception, with over a hundred attendees traveling from various regions, including the seacoast and neighboring countries. The event was a testament to the enduring love for Saab, showcasing a variety of models and fostering a sense of community among owners and enthusiasts.

The Story Behind the Saab 9000 SFT

The tale of the Saab 9000 SFT’s rescue is nothing short of extraordinary. Originally serving as a friction tester car at Bulgaria’s airport, this particular 1996 model was destined for the scrapyard. However, Igor Stankov and his family, who have a history of saving Saabs, saw an opportunity to preserve this unique vehicle. With only 25,000 kilometers on the odometer, the car was in pristine condition, a true collector’s item.

Saab’s Surface Friction Tester (SFT) vehicles

Saab’s Surface Friction Tester (SFT) vehicles, such as the Saab 900 and 9000, were designed to ensure airport runway safety by measuring the friction levels. These cars, equipped with a fifth wheel and specialized instruments, gauge the coefficient of friction of the runway surface. The technology was developed in collaboration with the Swedish National Institute for Road and Transport Research (VTI) and Saab, starting in the 1970s. The division was later acquired by SARSYS-ASFT, which continues to produce these essential vehicles for airports worldwide.

For more details, you can read the full article here.

An Unexpected Gem at the Scrapyard

When the Stankovs first learned about the car, they were intrigued by its unusually low mileage. Despite being designed for airport use, 25,000 kilometers was remarkably low even for a friction tester. Upon visiting the scrapyard, they found the car to be in excellent shape, with no rust, a perfect automatic transmission, and a 2.3t engine that looked almost new. The car’s rarity was further underscored by its red color, as most SFT cars were yellow, and its designation as number 334 out of the 400 produced for European airports.

Restoration and Display

Once acquired, the Stankovs invested time and effort into restoring the Saab 9000 SFT to its original glory. Minor flaws were fixed, and the car was made flawless for the meeting. It quickly became the star attraction, drawing admiration from attendees and generating buzz online. Photos and videos of the car spread across social media, showcasing its impeccable condition and unique features.

The Significance of SFT Cars

Friction tester (SFT) cars like the Saab 9000 SFT are equipped to test runway conditions at airports, ensuring safety during takeoff and landing. These cars are typically not driven on public roads, which explains their low mileage. The 9000 SFT’s preservation highlights the importance of these specialized vehicles and their role in aviation safety.

The Future of the Saab 9000 SFT

Despite its restored condition and historical significance, the Saab 9000 SFT cannot be driven on public roads in Bulgaria. As a result, the Stankovs have decided to sell the car. This decision ensures that the vehicle will continue to be appreciated and preserved by another enthusiast. Potential buyers will have the chance to own a piece of Saab history, a car that exemplifies the brand’s innovation and commitment to safety.

Saab Enthusiast Gatherings Worldwide

The Bulgarian Saab meeting is just one example of the many gatherings held by Saab enthusiasts globally. These events serve as a platform for owners to showcase their cars, share stories, and celebrate the brand’s legacy. From the Saab Festival in Trollhättan, Sweden, to local meetups in various countries, these gatherings reinforce the strong community spirit among Saab fans.

The Legacy of Saab

Saab’s history is rich with innovation and unique design. Despite the company’s bankruptcy, the brand continues to inspire loyalty and admiration. Events like the Bulgarian Saab meeting and the preservation of cars like the Saab 9000 SFT demonstrate the enduring legacy of Saab. Enthusiasts remain dedicated to keeping the spirit of Saab alive, celebrating its contributions to the automotive world.

Conclusion

The rescue and restoration of the Saab 9000 SFT by Igor Stankov and his family is a remarkable story of dedication and passion. This car, with its unique history and pristine condition, serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Saab. As the car finds a new home, it will continue to be a symbol of the brand’s legacy and the vibrant community that cherishes it. Saab enthusiasts worldwide can draw inspiration from this story, celebrating their own connections to the iconic Swedish marque.

Update of the story

After our writing in this article and the great interest of collectors around the world, the seller has decided to sell this car via auction, so read the details in the following article:

Saab 9000 SFT Goes to Auction: A Chance to Own a Rare Collector’s Gem