The 2024 Africa Concours d’Elegance, a prestigious event for classic car enthusiasts, is set to take place on September 29th at the Nairobi Racecourse. This year’s event promises to be a grand celebration, marking the anniversary of the Alfa Romeo Owners Club.
Among the remarkable array of classic vehicles, the Saab 96 stands out as a rare and iconic model that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. Thomas Frowein’s entry of a 1968 Saab 96 is poised to make a significant impact, bringing attention to this historic car in a region where it has been a beloved yet rare sight.
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The Legacy of the Saab 96 in Rally Racing
The Saab 96 holds a distinguished place in automotive history, particularly in the world of rally racing. Famously driven by Erik Carlsson, the Saab 96 achieved legendary status with multiple wins in the RAC Rally and the Monte Carlo Rally.
Carlsson’s success established the Saab 96 as a symbol of reliability and toughness, qualities that made it a favorite in the East African Safari Rally. The rugged reliability of the Saab 96 was proven time and again in the harsh conditions of rally racing, and it became a highly-preferred rally car in Kenya. Despite its popularity, the Saab 96 is now a rarity in Africa, making its appearance at the Concours d’Elegance all the more special.
A Rare Appearance: Thomas Frowein’s 1968 Saab 96
Thomas Frowein’s 1968 Saab 96 is set to be a highlight of the 2024 Africa Concours d’Elegance. This will be the first appearance of a Saab at the Nairobi Racecourse in many years, and it promises to draw considerable attention from both Saab enthusiasts and classic car fans.
The Saab 96 model, produced between 1960 and 1980, is known for its distinctive design and exceptional performance. Frowein’s Saab 96 is a testament to the enduring appeal of this classic model, showcasing its timeless elegance and engineering prowess.
A Celebration of Classic Cars: The Africa Concours d’Elegance
The Africa Concours d’Elegance is a premier event that brings together classic car enthusiasts from across the continent. This year’s event will feature a diverse lineup of classic vehicles, each vying for top honors in their respective categories. In addition to Thomas Frowein’s Saab 96, the Concours will showcase a variety of other notable entries. Jane Chemngorem will present her 1962 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, while her husband Paul Chemngoren will compete with a Subaru Leone coupe and a 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. Vitafoam Products Limited will add to the diversity with a 1966 MGB Roadster and a 1974 Austin Mini.
Diverse Entries and Enthusiastic Participants
The 2024 Africa Concours d’Elegance will feature an impressive array of classic cars and motorcycles, reflecting the rich automotive heritage of the region. Notable entries include Mohamed Aslam Khan’s 1977 Porsche 911 and the Ford Escorts of Mohamed Shakeel Khan and Farhaaz Khan from 1968 and 1975, respectively. Mercedes-Benz models will also be well-represented, with Patrick Mweheire’s 1959 W180 and 1969 230S Fintail among the highlights. Motorcycle enthusiasts will be thrilled to see Dominique Antoine, a multiple overall motorcycle winner, competing with a BSA bike and a 1959 Peugeot 203 in the car category.
The Unique Appeal of the Saab 96
The Saab 96’s appearance at the Concours d’Elegance is a testament to its unique appeal and enduring legacy. Known for its distinctive two-stroke engine and aerodynamic design, the Saab 96 was a trailblazer in the automotive world. Its success in rally racing, particularly under the skillful driving of Erik Carlsson, cemented its reputation as a reliable and robust vehicle.
The Saab 96’s design also featured innovations such as a freewheeling mode, which allowed the car to coast without engine braking, improving fuel efficiency and reducing wear on the engine. These features, combined with its stylish design, make the Saab 96 a beloved classic that continues to captivate car enthusiasts.
Judging and Evaluation at the Concours
The judging at the Africa Concours d’Elegance is a meticulous process, focusing on the thorough preparation and presentation of each vehicle. Judges will use the TotalEnergies inspection ramp to evaluate the underside of the cars, ensuring they meet the highest standards of roadworthiness. The vehicles will then proceed along the judging line in front of the grandstand, where experienced officials will assess the paintwork, interior, boot, and engine. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that only the finest vehicles are recognized, making the Concours a prestigious event for classic car owners.
Saab 96: A Favorite Among Kenyan Car Enthusiasts
In Kenya, the Saab 96 has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts, thanks to its rugged reliability and impressive performance in rally racing. The car’s success in the East African Safari Rally, driven by Erik Carlsson, helped to establish its popularity in the region. Despite its historical significance, the Saab 96 is now a rare sight in Kenya, making its appearance at the Concours d’Elegance a significant event for local Saab fans. The car’s distinctive design and engineering excellence continue to inspire admiration and respect among classic car enthusiasts.
The Future of Classic Car Events in Africa
The Africa Concours d’Elegance is more than just a celebration of classic cars; it is a testament to the enduring passion for automotive history in Africa. Events like the Concours provide a platform for enthusiasts to showcase their meticulously maintained vehicles and share their love of classic cars with the public. The participation of rare models like the Saab 96 highlights the rich diversity of automotive heritage in the region and underscores the importance of preserving these iconic vehicles for future generations. As the popularity of classic car events continues to grow, the Africa Concours d’Elegance will remain a cornerstone of the automotive community, celebrating the timeless appeal of classic cars and the enthusiasts who cherish them.
A Must-See Event for Classic Car Enthusiasts
The 2024 Africa Concours d’Elegance promises to be an unforgettable event, featuring a stunning lineup of classic cars and motorcycles. Thomas Frowein’s 1968 Saab 96 is set to be a standout entry, drawing attention to this iconic model’s rich history and enduring appeal. The diverse range of vehicles, meticulous judging process, and enthusiastic participation make the Concours a must-see event for classic car enthusiasts. As we celebrate the heritage of these remarkable vehicles, we also look forward to the future of classic car events in Africa, preserving the legacy of iconic models like the Saab 96 for generations to come.
My son is looking after the 1964 Sport.At 90 I stick to an auto these days.He says that a good going over of things under the bonnet would be wise-I hope that he does not take too long!! Actually it came from Africa,hence NO rust,or dents.It was concours after full treatment and so it is still up there in condition.It would be great to run a basic two stroke to do my Tesco shopping,the exhaust note and blue smoke would turn heads.