The automotive world is full of fascinating stories, some of which involve vehicles that have not always received the recognition they deserved. One such vehicle is the Saab-Lancia 600 GLS.
Despite its troubled history, the Saab-Lancia 600 GLS remains an intriguing collector’s item, particularly when it comes in pristine condition. Let’s explore the unique story of a 1986 Saab-Lancia 600 GLS, which is now for sale, owned by a single family, and boasts only 22,000 kilometers on the odometer.
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A Glimpse into the Past: The 1986 Saab-Lancia 600 GLS
The Saab-Lancia 600 GLS represents a unique collaboration between the Swedish automaker Saab and the Italian marque Lancia. This joint venture was aimed at filling a specific niche in the Swedish automotive market. Introduced in 1980, the Saab-Lancia 600 was designed to replace the aging Saab 96 V4, which had been in production for nearly two decades. Saab needed a modern, compact car to complement its lineup, but financial constraints led the company to partner with Lancia.
The Swedish Delta: Design and Features
The Saab-Lancia 600 was essentially a rebadged version of the Lancia Delta, designed by the famous Italian automotive designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. Despite its Italian origins, the Saab-Lancia 600 featured subtle differences, such as unique identification inscriptions and the absence of the aluminum-colored band at the base of the tailgate found on the Lancia Delta GLS.
Under the hood, the Saab-Lancia 600 GLS was powered by an 86 horsepower engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. This front-wheel-drive vehicle was well-suited for the Swedish market, offering a blend of performance and practicality. However, its relatively high price, due to heavy taxation on new cars in Nordic countries, posed a significant challenge to its market success.
Market Challenges and Production History
The Saab-Lancia 600 faced numerous challenges from the start. Despite an extensive advertising campaign, the car struggled to gain traction in the market. Over 6,400 units were sold, but many of them quickly disappeared, primarily due to issues with rust and corrosion. The car’s reputation suffered, and it was eventually regarded as a commercial failure.
Production of the Saab-Lancia 600 was limited to the period between 1980 and 1986. By the end of its production run, it was clear that the car had not lived up to its initial promise. Today, it is estimated that fewer than 60 examples of the Saab-Lancia 600 remain in Sweden, making it a rare and sought-after collectible.
The Story of a Single-Family-Owned Gem
The Saab-Lancia 600 GLS currently for sale is a remarkable example of this rare model. This 1986 model year car has been in the same family since it was new, initially purchased by a lady in Arvika, Sweden. Today, it is owned by her grandchild. With only 22,000 kilometers (approximately 13,670 miles) on the odometer, this car has been meticulously maintained and preserved.
One of the standout features of this particular Saab-Lancia 600 GLS is its excellent condition. The car has never been driven in winter and has been regularly treated with underbody protection to prevent rust. It was last inspected in 2022 and is fully operational, with all systems functioning as they should.
Why This Saab-Lancia 600 GLS Is a Collector’s Dream
For collectors and enthusiasts, this Saab-Lancia 600 GLS represents an extraordinary opportunity. Its rarity, combined with its pristine condition and single-family ownership history, makes it a unique find. The car’s original paint and interior have been remarkably well-preserved, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive design and engineering.
The asking price for this rare gem is 799,000 SEK (approximately $74,000). While this may seem steep, it reflects the car’s collectible status and the scarcity of surviving examples. For those who appreciate automotive history and the unique story of the Saab-Lancia 600, this vehicle is worth every penny.
A Unique Collaboration in Automotive History
The Saab-Lancia 600 GLS is a testament to the innovative spirit of both Saab and Lancia. Despite its commercial failure, the car remains a fascinating chapter in automotive history. The collaboration between Saab and Lancia, driven by financial necessity and a desire to create something new, resulted in a vehicle that, while flawed, has found a place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts.
The Legacy of the Saab-Lancia 600 GLS
Today, the Saab-Lancia 600 GLS is remembered as a car that could have been much more than it was. Its story is a reminder of the challenges faced by automakers in creating and marketing new models. Despite its shortcomings, the Saab-Lancia 600 GLS holds a special place in automotive history, particularly for those who appreciate the unique and the unusual.
The Saab-Lancia 600 GLS: A Unique Car with a (Too)High Price Tag
The Saab-Lancia 600 GLS is a unique car, but it may not be a prime collector’s item. While the vehicle is in excellent condition, the price seems rather high. For collectors, owning a well-preserved example of this rare model is a dream come true.
The current offering of a single-family-owned 1986 Saab-Lancia 600 GLS with only 22,000 kilometers on the odometer is a unique opportunity to own a piece of this intriguing story. Whether you’re a Saab enthusiast, a collector of rare cars, or simply someone who appreciates the history of automotive innovation, this Saab-Lancia 600 GLS is a treasure worth considering.
For more information, contact Help-U Motor in Bengtsfors at 010-265 64 00 or email info@help-umotor.se.
The hot versions are still being (re)built in Veghel The Netherlands. Our regional Saabclub paid these guys a visit last year. Linking pin (excuse) was the Saab 600😂. These Delta’s come at a price since most restored Deltas are either unaffordable or in bad shape (under skin).
Crazy price for old Lancia