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A Forgotten Treasure from “Trafikmagasinet“
In a remarkable twist of fate, Carl Ingemar Perstad, the legendary Swedish TV creator known for the long-running show “Trafikmagasinet,” has unearthed a nearly forgotten film episode featuring Saab. This discovery, highlighted in Curp Magazine, takes us back to a glorious era in Saab’s history, providing a rare glimpse into the automaker’s golden age.
Perstad’s discovery is a VHS tape from the 1980s, initially appearing beyond repair. Yet, understanding its potential significance, he embarked on restoring it. The film showcases a visit to the Saab factory from 1983-84, a period when Saab was establishing its star status in the global automotive industry. This film not only highlights the technical prowess of the time but also the strategic ingenuity that propelled Saab into international fame.
The Turbocharged Revolution
The film reveals Saab’s innovative approach to automotive engineering during the early 1980s. Instead of developing a more powerful six-cylinder engine, which was beyond the small factory’s resources, Saab opted for a turbocharged engine in the older Saab 99 model. This decision proved to be a masterstroke, turning Saab into a bestseller abroad. Perstad enthusiastically recounts how this budget-friendly solution catapulted Saab to international stardom.
Inside the Saab Factory
Perstad’s restored footage offers an insider’s look at the Saab factory, capturing the production of the 99 models destined for export. He highlights the near-nonexistent inventory, a testament to the high demand for Saab cars at the time. The film also illustrates the transition from traditional assembly lines to modern car factories, showcasing the introduction of robotics into the automotive industry.
In the early 1980s, the use of robots in car manufacturing was both revolutionary and exciting. Perstad’s footage captures this technological shift, as car bodies move through various stations towards completion. This segment of the film is a fascinating look at how automotive manufacturing was evolving during this period.
Meet Gunnar Larsson: A Visionary at Work
A significant feature of the film is the appearance of a young Gunnar Larsson, then the head of development at Saab. Larsson, who would later become a prominent figure at Volvo and Audi, shares his optimistic vision for Saab’s future during the 1980s. He discusses the challenges and successes of the time, particularly focusing on the Saab 99, which, despite its age, continued to achieve remarkable success.
Larsson also sheds light on the Saab 900 model, the company’s flagship at the time. His insights provide valuable context for understanding the strategic decisions that shaped Saab’s trajectory during this era.
The Saab 600: A Controversial Collaboration
Adding historical depth to the film is the discussion of Saab’s collaboration with Italian automaker Lancia. This partnership resulted in the Saab 600, essentially a rebadged Lancia Delta. Perstad doesn’t shy away from criticizing these vehicles, which were known for their susceptibility to rust in Sweden’s harsh climate. Despite the partnership’s challenges, this segment of the film offers a candid look at Saab’s efforts to expand its product lineup through international collaboration.
Gunnar Larsson’s Homecoming
In a poignant moment towards the end of the film, an older Gunnar Larsson returns to the Saab factory as the last 9000 models roll off the production line. Larsson, who played a crucial role in developing the Saab 9000, expresses his desire to own one of the final examples of the car that significantly shaped his career. This segment not only highlights Larsson’s personal connection to Saab but also marks the end of an era for the company.
A Rare Historical Document
Perstad’s rediscovered film is more than just a nostalgic look back at Saab’s past. It is a rare historical document that captures the spirit of innovation and resilience that defined Saab during the 1980s. The footage, enriched with interviews and factory scenes, offers a unique perspective on how Saab navigated the challenges of the automotive industry to emerge as a global player.
A Legacy Preserved
Carl Ingemar Perstad’s discovery and restoration of this forgotten Saab film is a gift to automotive enthusiasts and historians alike. It preserves a critical chapter in Saab’s history, showcasing the ingenuity and determination that propelled the brand to international acclaim. Through Perstad’s efforts, we are reminded of a time when Saab was not just a car manufacturer, but a symbol of Swedish innovation and excellence.
For those interested in exploring this remarkable find, the restored film is available on Perstad’s YouTube channel, offering a captivating journey back to Saab’s golden era. This unique footage is a testament to the enduring legacy of Saab and the visionary minds that shaped its history.
Watch the full video here: How Saab Became a World Sensation! UNIQUE FILM! Perstad Presents: TrafikMagasinet, CarTV with Perstad:
