Rare Auction Find: Saab 9-5 Police Car Ready for High-Speed Pursuits!

In the world of classic cars and collectors, some vehicles stand out not just for their make and model, but for their unique history and purpose. One such exceptional opportunity has emerged in Sweden, where a fully-equipped police Saab 9-5 is up for auction.

This remarkable vehicle, complete with its blue lights, sirens, and other law enforcement gear, offers a window into a bygone era of Swedish law enforcement. Let’s delve into the intriguing story of this special police Saab 9-5 and why it’s attracting attention from enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

The Saab 9-5: A Brief Overview

Before we dive into the details of this extraordinary police Saab, let’s take a moment to appreciate the Saab 9-5 itself. The Saab 9-5 was introduced in 1998 as a successor to the Saab 9000. While it shared its engine and transmission with its predecessor, the chassis was based on the Opel Vectra. However, Saab engineers worked their magic on the Opel chassis, resulting in a vehicle that garnered praise for its exceptional handling and driving experience.

During its heyday, the Saab 9-5 was one of Sweden’s best-selling cars, repeatedly earning recognition as one of the safest car models, thanks to rigorous testing by organizations like Folksam. Over time, as Saab faced financial challenges, its popularity waned, and the Swedish police began transitioning to Volvo as their primary choice for patrol vehicles. Nevertheless, the Saab 9-5 remains a symbol of Swedish automotive innovation and craftsmanship.

The Police Saab 9-5: A Unique Relic

While the Saab 9-5 might be a rare sight on the roads today, the police version of this iconic vehicle is even scarcer. In the early 2000s, the Saab 9-5 was a common choice for Swedish law enforcement agencies. However, as Saab encountered financial difficulties, police orders dwindled. Despite this, many of the original police Saabs continue to serve as civilian vehicles.

What makes this particular Saab 9-5 truly special is that it retains almost all of its law enforcement equipment. This vehicle, which served as a police detective’s car in Stockholm County and was built by Ana Specialbilar in 2003, boasts blue lights, a siren, and a Triptrack device used for speed measurements during traffic stops. However, it’s essential to note that operating the blue lights and siren on public roads is strictly prohibited.

Despite its age, this Saab has only accumulated 200,000 kilometers, a relatively low figure for a former police car. The engine has received a new turbo and refurbished cylinder head, ensuring that it runs smoothly and efficiently. While the car shows some signs of its previous life in law enforcement, it remains in fairly good condition. As the years pass, the first-generation Saab 9-5 is becoming increasingly rare, as many are sent to the scrapyard. However, a unique police Saab like this is likely to appreciate in value over time.

The Appeal of Collecting Police Cars

Collecting police cars is a niche but fascinating hobby for automotive enthusiasts and history buffs. Police vehicles offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing the evolution of law enforcement technology, design, and functionality. Each police car carries a unique story, reflecting the region it served, the era it operated in, and the specific tasks it was designed for.

Owning a former police car, like this Saab 9-5, is akin to owning a piece of living history. It allows collectors to appreciate the craftsmanship, technology, and design considerations that went into creating a police vehicle tailored to the needs of law enforcement agencies. Moreover, these cars often come with intriguing accessories and modifications that are rarely seen in civilian vehicles.

The Legacy of Saab and Its Police Vehicles

Saab has always been known for its innovation and commitment to safety, qualities that made it an attractive choice for police fleets. The Saab 9-5, with its robust build and advanced safety features, was a natural fit for law enforcement duties. While the Saab brand itself faced challenges and eventual discontinuation, the legacy of its vehicles, especially those that served as police cars, endures.

Today, when people hear the name Saab, they often reminisce about the brand’s iconic designs, including the Saab 9-5. For those who remember seeing Saab police cars patrolling the streets, this auction represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of that collective memory.

The Growing Collectors’ Market

The interest in collecting unique and historically significant cars has been on the rise in recent years. Enthusiasts are drawn to vehicles that tell a story and evoke a sense of nostalgia. Police cars, with their distinctive features and undeniable presence, are becoming increasingly sought after by collectors.

This Saab 9-5, with its police history and well-preserved equipment, is a prime example of a collectible car with both historical significance and potential for future appreciation. As more collectors seek out these unique vehicles, the market for former police cars is expected to continue growing.

Parting Thoughts

The chance to own a special police Saab 9-5 is a remarkable opportunity for car enthusiasts and collectors alike. This well-preserved relic of Swedish law enforcement history is not just a car; it’s a time capsule that harks back to an era when Saab vehicles were synonymous with safety and innovation.

As the auction for this unique Saab unfolds, it’s a reminder that the world of automotive collecting is as diverse and exciting as the cars themselves. For those fortunate enough to secure this piece of history, it will undoubtedly become a treasured addition to their collection—a symbol of Saab’s enduring legacy and its role in safeguarding Swedish streets.