The 1977 Saab 99 EMS is a car that resonates with automotive enthusiasts for its unique blend of Scandinavian design, advanced engineering, and rich history. Now, one such pristine example is up for sale, and it’s attracting a lot of attention from the classic car community.
Malcolm Espin, a dedicated member of the Yorkshire SAAB Group, has decided to part ways with his meticulously maintained Saab 99 EMS, offering it to a fellow enthusiast for £19,995. This article delves into the details of this specific car, its historical significance, and why it stands out as a collector’s item today.
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The Legacy of the Saab 99 EMS
The Saab 99 EMS holds a special place in the hearts of Saab aficionados. Launched in the early 1970s, the EMS (Electronic Manual Special) was the performance-oriented variant of the Saab 99 lineup, featuring a fuel-injected engine, sportier suspension, and a more aggressive design. It was one of the first cars to embody Saab’s commitment to combining performance with safety and innovation, a philosophy that would define the brand for decades.
This 1977 model year was particularly significant as it marked the last phase of production before the introduction of the turbocharged Saab 99 Turbo. The EMS was powered by a 2.0-liter engine producing 110 horsepower, which was impressive for its time and gave the car a top speed of around 105 mph. The car’s handling was also highly praised, thanks to its front-wheel-drive layout, balanced chassis, and responsive steering.
A Closer Look at Malcolm Espin’s Saab 99 EMS
Malcolm Espin’s Saab 99 EMS is a true testament to the dedication and care that has gone into preserving this classic vehicle. With just over 84,000 miles on the clock, this car has been carefully restored and maintained over the years, making it one of the finest examples of the model on the market today.
The car underwent a full respray, preserving its original bodywork, with only a small, localized area of rust removed. The restoration included new original-spec suspension components, new Bilstein shock absorbers, a new front windshield, calipers, and a stainless steel exhaust system. Bosch electronic ignition, a Saab option at the time, was also installed, enhancing the car’s reliability and performance.
However, one of the most significant aspects of this restoration was the engine rebuild, completed just last year by a reputable race engineering company. The original engine had suffered from a seized jackshaft, but the rebuild included a new timing chain, water pump, and other vital components, ensuring the car runs as smoothly as it did when it first left the factory.
Historical Context and Rarity
Finding a Saab 99 EMS in such pristine condition is becoming increasingly rare. This car represents a key chapter in Saab’s history, bridging the gap between the early Saab 92, 93, and 96 models, and the later, more powerful 900 and 9000 series. The EMS variant, with its distinctive styling and performance enhancements, was one of the last naturally aspirated models before Saab fully embraced turbocharging.
The 99 EMS was also one of the first Saabs to gain significant recognition outside of Sweden, particularly in the UK and the US, where it was marketed as a sports sedan with a focus on driving dynamics and safety. The model’s rarity today is further accentuated by the fact that many have succumbed to rust and mechanical wear over the years, making well-preserved examples like Malcolm’s increasingly difficult to find.
Why This Saab 99 EMS Stands Out
What sets Malcolm Espin’s Saab 99 EMS apart from others is not just its excellent condition but also the attention to detail that has gone into its preservation. From the restored bodywork to the meticulously rebuilt engine, this car is ready to be enjoyed by a new owner who appreciates its historical significance and driving pleasure.
The car is also equipped with several rare and valuable accessories, including a rear louvre, which alone is worth close to £500. The sale also includes over £1,000 worth of new, NOS, and good-used spares, making it an even more attractive proposition for Saab collectors.
Moreover, Malcolm is willing to consider a part exchange for a tax-exempt C900 flat front or another tax-exempt 99 that can be used year-round. This offers potential buyers flexibility, especially if they are looking to add another classic Saab to their collection while parting with one of their own.
A Rare Opportunity for Saab Enthusiasts
The sale of this 1977 Saab 99 EMS is a rare opportunity for any Saab enthusiast or classic car collector. With its meticulously restored condition, rebuilt engine, and array of valuable extras, this car is not just a piece of Saab history but also a testament to the passion and dedication that goes into preserving these iconic vehicles.
As the classic car market continues to appreciate well-maintained examples of unique and historically significant models, the Saab 99 EMS is likely to become even more sought after in the years to come. For anyone looking to own a piece of automotive history, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
I had one of these back in the early 80s with red upholstery. For me, it’s a shame that it doesn’t have the original UK spec headlights, the ones fitted to this one seem to be US spec. Nonetheless a nice car. There was also a metallic red colour available, and it looked particularly good in that.
Det är inte årsmodell 1977. Den har större blinkers och bakljus.
The picture Is not a 77 saab, the grille, front and rear turn lens are 1974. The seats came in red in 1977 not brown.
First registered in June 1977. UK SAAB dealers had a somewhat irritating habit of selling last year’s (or even the one before’s ) stock as new even if it had been in storage for a bit. My 76 99 had the same lights and carried the same year letter.
This used to be my car! Nicely detailed since, but a shame it’s lost its wheel centre hubs.