Table of Contents
A Factory-Tuned Saab 96 with a Racing Pedigree
Every so often, a Saab emerges that embodies the brand’s rally heritage in its purest form. This 1964 Saab 96 2-Stroke, currently up for auction at Bilweb Auctions, is one such car. Unlike a typical classic, this particular 96 features a factory-modified, race-tuned engine directly linked to Saab’s motorsport division. Its 850cc two-stroke engine delivers over 85 horsepower, a significant improvement over the standard version, allowing for high-revving performance and a sharp, aggressive exhaust note that sets it apart from its contemporaries.
The highest bid currently stands at 94,000 SEK ($9,000), though with its history and modifications, the final price could easily exceed expectations. Bilweb estimates its value between 120,000 and 140,000 SEK ($11,000 – $13,000 USD), making it a compelling investment for enthusiasts looking for a piece of Saab’s motorsport legacy.
A Saab Engineer’s Legacy on Wheels
This Saab 96 carries an incredible story with it. The current owner comes from a family deeply embedded in Saab’s engineering history. His father was heavily involved in Saab’s research and development during the 1960s, making this vehicle not just a car, but a symbol of the expertise and innovation that defined the brand. The owner ensured that the car retained its spirit, modifying and maintaining it with factory-accurate precision.
What makes this vehicle truly special is its engine. Developed by Saab’s racing division, the engine is a rare factory-built race unit that was put to the test in real competition. Equipped with Lancia carburetors and a separate oil pump, it was designed for high-performance driving. The engine has not only participated in vintage rally events, such as the Dalsrands Rally in the late 1990s, but it has also been driven at the Nürburgring, proving its pedigree in high-speed conditions.
Restored for Performance and Longevity
The car underwent a full restoration in the late 1990s, ensuring both its durability and its continued usability. Stripped down to bare metal, the restoration included replacing the bonnet and outer door skins, reinforcing the sills, and welding where necessary. A complete respray followed, giving the car a fresh and vibrant finish. The factory-engineered, side-mounted exhaust system was installed to maximize both performance and the iconic sound that makes Saab’s two-stroke engines so unmistakable.
Despite its history on the track and the rally circuit, the car has been driven regularly over the past 25 years, mostly within local Saab enthusiast circles. It even played a role in the protests against GM before Saab’s eventual bankruptcy, cementing its status as a symbol of the passionate Saab community in Trollhättan.
An Engaging and Demanding Drive
Driving this Saab 96 is not for the faint-hearted. The factory-tuned race engine and firmer clutch require a more involved approach, especially when shifting gears, as it demands higher revs to maintain smooth acceleration.
The four-speed transmission is paired with Saab Sport brakes, featuring front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, ensuring solid stopping power despite the car’s lightweight design. Stability remains a strong point, with the chassis responding confidently to spirited driving.
Shaun Major, the auction’s inspector, described his experience behind the wheel:
“I may be biased, as I love the sound of two-stroke engines, but this car had me smiling and laughing while filming and driving. It sounds fantastic, thanks to its tuned engine and side-mounted exhaust—any Saab enthusiast would love to own and drive this gem.”
Preserving the Classic Saab Character
While the car has been performance-enhanced, it still retains much of its original character. The interior remains largely stock but well-maintained, featuring tidy seats, a well-preserved headliner, and an iconic four-bolt wooden steering wheel. There are minor imperfections, such as a small crack on the dashboard pad and a loose pocket on the passenger door card, but nothing that detracts from the overall experience.
Externally, the Saab 96 presents itself well. The bodywork remains in solid condition, with only a small dent under the rear right brake light and minor surface rust spots that could be easily treated for long-term preservation. The paintwork is bright and clean, aside from some scuffs on the edges of the rear wings and a few light scratches that can be polished out. Chrome trim pieces are still in good shape, though the bumpers show some oxidation, a common issue for cars of this era.
A Collector’s Dream with True Motorsport Pedigree
For anyone passionate about Saab’s racing history, this 1964 Saab 96 2-Stroke represents an unmissable opportunity. It combines authentic factory racing DNA with a carefully preserved classic body, making it one of the most desirable vintage Saab models on the market. Whether as an investment, a showpiece, or a thrilling weekend driver, it delivers an experience that few other classic cars can match.
The auction concludes on February 20th at 10:00 AM. With a bidding war likely to unfold in the final moments, this might be your best—and perhaps last—chance to acquire a factory-built Saab race car with such an exceptional history.
🔗 Place your bid now at: Bilweb Auctions
