Why the 1973 Saab Sonett III is the Vintage Sports Car Every Collector Wants Right Now

Introduction

The Saab Sonett III, a model that has long flown under the radar for many collectors, is experiencing a well-deserved resurgence in the classic car market. As a compact coupé with innovative features and a unique place in Saab’s history, it’s no wonder that this car is gaining recognition among connoisseurs.

This particular 1973 Saab Sonett III, currently listed on Collecting Cars, is a rare and tastefully modified example of the breed, with a history that includes an impressive restoration program and a performance-focused engine rebuild. This article delves into the details of this specific car, why it stands out, and what its rising value indicates about the future of classic Saab automobiles.

Saab Sonett III: From the Florida Sun to the Nordic Roads

The journey of this 1973 Saab Sonett III began in Florida, where it was first registered in 1972 as a U.S.-market model. Unlike its European counterparts, the U.S. version was fitted with safety-compliant features like oversized bumpers, a regulation requirement that marked the model’s identity overseas. However, its story took a sharp turn when it was imported to Finland in 1977. Saab has always had a strong following in Scandinavia, and Finland was no exception—this car found a home among enthusiasts who appreciated its compact, aerodynamic design.

The car underwent significant restoration and modification work between 2008 and 2012, including a complete sandblasting of the body, welding repairs, and the deletion of its sunroof—a feature not originally offered in the Sonett lineup. It also received a Ferrari-inspired Grigio Silverstone respray, which significantly elevates its visual appeal. As of 2023, the car has been refreshed once again with updates to the engine, making it ready for both weekend drives and car show appearances.

Performance Reimagined: The 1.7-Litre V4 Engine

The Sonett III was originally powered by a 1.5-liter V4 engine sourced from Ford, which was already a unique feature among sports cars of its time. However, the engine in this particular Sonett has been stroked to 1.7 liters, providing additional power and enhancing the driving experience. Performance modifications include 91mm pistons, a 7.2mm camshaft, a lowered head, and a Weber DGV carburetor—upgrades that boost the engine’s efficiency and response.

The rebuild also included a lightened and balanced flywheel, which improves throttle response and makes gear changes smoother through its four-speed manual transmission. A twin-exit Simons exhaust system provides a sportier tone, while an electric fan ensures that the engine runs cool during spirited driving. These modifications transform the Sonett III from a nimble classic into a car capable of more thrilling performance on today’s roads.

Attention to Detail: A Well-Executed Restoration

Restorations of classic Saabs are becoming increasingly popular, but few examples have been restored with such care and attention to detail as this 1973 Sonett III. The sandblasting process revealed the need for significant repairs to the car’s bodywork, which were addressed with welding on the underside before the car was repainted in its striking Ferrari hue. This level of dedication to preserving the car’s structure shows that the restoration was not simply cosmetic, but designed to prolong the vehicle’s lifespan and integrity.

The interior of this Sonett III has also been tastefully upgraded, with a black leather-trimmed cabin punctuated by alloy inlays. Original factory bucket seats remain, complete with signature lumbar cushions, but with the addition of four-point harnesses, which make the car feel more track-ready than most Sonett examples. The steering wheel, though showing some signs of wear, adds to the vintage charm, while the wooden gear knob and dashboard toggle switches maintain the car’s period-correct feel.

Why the Saab Sonett III is Gaining Popularity in the Classic Car Market

Classic car markets have often overlooked Saab’s sports cars, with models like the Sonett III overshadowed by more mainstream classics. However, the tides are turning. Recent sales, including the impressive €10,850 price tag for a Saab Sonett II at auction, show that collectors are beginning to recognize the Sonett’s significance. These cars offer a unique blend of innovation, rarity, and performance, which sets them apart from other sports cars of their era.

The Sonett III, in particular, is benefiting from this newfound appreciation. With fewer than 8,000 units ever made, and even fewer surviving in such well-maintained or restored condition, these cars are rapidly becoming valuable collectors’ items. The modifications on this example make it particularly appealing to those who want the classic look with enhanced drivability, ensuring that it not only holds its value but also offers an engaging driving experience.

Saab’s Legacy: Innovation That Lives On

The Saab brand has always been synonymous with innovation. From its early days in aircraft manufacturing to its pioneering use of turbochargers and safety features in automobiles, Saab consistently pushed the boundaries of design and technology. The Sonett series, while not as widely known as the Saab 900 or 99, was an important chapter in Saab’s history. It demonstrated the company’s ability to create a sports car that was not only fun to drive but also built with the same care and attention to safety as its more practical models.

Even though Saab ceased automobile production in 2011, its legacy lives on through cars like the Sonett III. The rising interest in these cars is a reflection of the passion that still surrounds the Saab brand. Enthusiasts continue to gather at Saab festivals and events around the world, celebrating the unique design, engineering, and spirit of the brand.

Investing in a Saab Sonett III—A Smart Choice for Collectors

The market for classic Saab cars is growing, and the Saab Sonett III is at the forefront of this resurgence. With its distinctive styling, rarity, and the potential for further appreciation, this 1973 Saab Sonett III is more than just a collector’s item—it’s a piece of automotive history. The performance upgrades and restoration work make it a standout example that combines the best of vintage charm with modern enhancements.

As prices for Saab models continue to rise, driven by auctions like the recent sale of the Saab Sonett II, this Sonett III presents a unique opportunity for collectors to own a car that is both rare and increasingly valuable. For those who appreciate Saab’s legacy of innovation, this car is more than a nostalgic nod to the past—it’s a driving experience that continues to inspire admiration today.

View the full auction listing for the 1973 Saab Sonett III here.