[{"id": 2114179, "authorName": "Frost", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/frost/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The right color, the bigger V4, and great condition. Lots to like. Good luck to seller and buyer...", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1522285711, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114182, "authorName": "Frost", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/frost/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\u201c...equipped with a Ford Tanus...\u201d\r\nBaT, don\u2019t you mean \u201cTaunus?\u201d", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522285853, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114186, "authorName": "Keith_Price", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/keith_price/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Is the freewheeling locked out, or still engageable?", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522286106, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114223, "authorName": "Pedro (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pedro/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hi @keith_Price- Even though the four cycle versions of this model didn't really need the free wheeling feature like the two cycles did, it continued (as far as I know) throughout the life of the 96. And this example is as delivered--still engageable! Saves gas! Much like some modern day road cars in ECO mode, LOL", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522287854, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114251, "authorName": "Frank_Barrett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/frank_barrett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Yummy.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522288610, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114267, "authorName": "GlenK", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/glenk/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had a chance to drive one once at a dealer. As they are very few in Canada due to the fact they were not imported. I loved the shape and size. Unfortunately I was not in the market for one at the time when I test drove it. A couple of months after I drove it I was ready to buy but it was sold. I ended up getting a 544 Volvo.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522289109, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114282, "authorName": "BobD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bobd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Frost - The 'bigger' V4 is not really an advantage. Same power, longer stroke and lower compression ratio. The 1.5 is a more responsive engine that likes to rev. Not really noticeable unless you drive both side by side.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522289730, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114289, "authorName": "Myron_Vernis", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/myron_vernis/", "bidAmount": 3000, "content": "$3,000 bid placed by Myron_Vernis", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522290084, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 2114290, "authorName": "BobD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bobd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Very good looking 96. Seats are from a later '69+ .\r\n@ Pedro : Any idea if the 41K miles are original ?\r\nHas the dash been repainted ?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522290119, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114328, "authorName": "Pedro (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pedro/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@BobD - Yes, a trusted SAAB expert did inform me that the seats are from a newer example. I believe the mileage to be accurate based on the car\u2019s general condition but I don\u2019t have its complete history to know for sure. And yes, we had the dash repainted. The car was missing the radio delete plate so we procured one of those but then it didn\u2019t match perfectly. So we resprayed the whole thing.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1522291402, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114341, "authorName": "Paul_B.", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/paul_b.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "What a nice looking driver! I think in 67 they made both the 2 and 4 stroke, I'm not sure if there was a \ncut off date or just switched over when they ran out of 3 cyls. It's interesting that the engine shock was maintained for the 4 cyl.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522292050, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114512, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is a beauty in a wonderful color! My mechanic always recommended that I leave the freewheel lever engaged (no engine braking). Brake pads are cheaper than tranny rebuilds.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1522303184, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114559, "authorName": "Beaglebreath", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/beaglebreath/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "My folks bought one of these (\"Deluxe V4\") new and I distinctly remember that 2 and 4 cycles were available for a while. The free wheeling worked, and we used it all the time, giving around 32 mpg, which for the time was phenomenal (VW beetles got around 27). At the age of 16 I took my driver's test on it, and from then on the car received more \"spirited\" use. I dragged-raced a Datsun 510 and it was a dead heat. After a couple of years the clutch gave out, making my dad scratch his head. I moved on to my own vehicle (a VW beetle), and they traded it for a '71 95 wagon. At the time, these were about the best car for winter driving you could buy aside from 4wd, great traction and great heater. GLWTA!", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1522321214, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114669, "authorName": "BoultMan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/boultman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had a '69 \"Deluxe V4\" in this exact color as my first car. Took my driving test in it as well! The DeLuxe version of this car had a whole list of great extra features like..... a tachometer. I think that is it actually...", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1522328387, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114719, "authorName": "Mjollnir", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mjollnir/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Looking at the speedometer reminds me of a famous line from Dr. Emmet Brown. \"When this baby hits 88mph, you're gonna see some serious sh!t\"", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522329757, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114720, "authorName": "petercdowns", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/petercdowns/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "great car, parents had the wagon version early Seventies\r\n\r\ndo you mind me asking who was the DKW specialist in Pacific NW? I love DKW's....", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522329794, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114833, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "What a great interior and dash!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522332773, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114836, "authorName": "scotty_g", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/scotty_g/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "What a beauty! How about $75,000 including the \"garage\" that it's sitting in?", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522332862, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114885, "authorName": "smitty122", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/smitty122/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Oh what memories this brings back....same color as my '68 Deluxe. If you owned one of these, you have a story. That quirky but cool 4 on the column, the \"free wheel\" lever, the whine of the transaxle, the flat floor interior and of course that wonderful exterior design that out \"Volvoed\" Volvo! \r\n\r\nBought mine used in '79 specifically for the brand new Pirelli Cinturato tires it was wearing (for my VW bug). Cost me 350.00 and I knew the tires alone were worth close to that. Unbeknownst to me the tires were over inflated to 80lbs pressure and when I brought them down to 32lbs they delaminated on the highway the next day. Threw the tires out but ended up driving the car for a couple of years. Sold it for a pair of Grateful Dead tickets 3 or 4 years later. What a strange trip indeed...........", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1522333999, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114892, "authorName": "upnatum", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/upnatum/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Beautiful car, nicely restored, well photographed. GLWTS.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522334076, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114918, "authorName": "omwmike", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/omwmike/", "bidAmount": 3500, "content": "$3,500 bid placed by omwmike", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522334594, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 2114920, "authorName": "Ken_H.", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ken_h.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Very fond memories of my old 96. Just showed the pictures to my wife and her face just lit up. Mine was also from Wisconsin but suffered from extensive rust. Hopes this one fares better. Someone will definitely enjoy this Saab.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522334827, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114929, "authorName": "brigadooner", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brigadooner/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Is the original v-4 available to the buyer?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522335142, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114978, "authorName": "Pedro (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pedro/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@brigadooner - Sorry but no, this is how I bought it. \r\n\r\nSome of the SAAB enthusiasts who comment on this site can chime in to confirm, but as I understand it, the original 1498 cc V4 engines (originally developed for the 1962 Ford Taunus 15M) had some sort of reliability issue. So many of these late 60s 96s ended up with the newer and more reliable 1698cc units from the 1971 era. Another interesting point about these German Ford engines, the V6 used in the European Capri was basically the same engine except for the two additional cylinders.", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1522336779, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2114991, "authorName": "JIMMY", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimmy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@brigadooner -- I'm sure the original open deck 1500 was replaced for good reason. The 1700 is much better just because it is a later version with improvements. \nThis car has quite a few non-original parts, but nothing too drastic. The bumper over riders are from a later 96, the front seats as already mentioned, and it looks like it has a newer web case gearbox. It's great that the freewheel still works, they are lots of fun. For serious driving this car will need a bigger radiator, the 2-stroke size unit is barely adequate. \nThe shift lever is from a newer car too, this car should have a chrome lever with a small grey knob. The tires are too wide for those stock 4 inch wide wheels, Sonett wheels are 1/2 inch wider. Still too much rubber, these cars are all about low rolling resistance. \nThis is a really clean looking car with a bunch of great upgrades like the exhaust, nothing sounds better than one of those MSS pipes. GLWTA!", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1522337224, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2115005, "authorName": "JIMMY", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimmy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The 2 stroke engine was available until the 1968 model year. The last engines were 820 cc so that they did not have to meet emissions requirements. (under 50 cubic inches! )", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522337468, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2115018, "authorName": "LikesWeirdCars", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/likesweirdcars/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Wow, a lot to like here!\r\n\r\nHmm.... I know someone in WI that I just might be able to talk into letting me store it until the weather is nice enough to drive it out to CA....", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522337788, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2115019, "authorName": "LikesWeirdCars", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/likesweirdcars/", "bidAmount": 5000, "content": "$5,000 bid placed by LikesWeirdCars", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522337812, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 2115051, "authorName": "joebazots", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/joebazots/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "When I first saw these some years ago, they were a little jarring to my traditional American car sensibilities. Having said that, these have really grown on me. I love the color of this example - looks really tidy. Perhaps one day, one will grace my garage with its quirky presence. GLWTA!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522338737, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2115100, "authorName": "Lewis", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lewis/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I much prefer the oil burners but this is a damned nice Saab. In the late 60s and early 70s where I grew up on Long Island and southwestern Massachusetts, these were as common as VWs. Now that I have a 1960 93F stroker, they are way, way better built and a lot more fun than a comparable VW.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522340336, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2115156, "authorName": "brigadooner", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brigadooner/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I\u2019ve always wanted a classic car from Sweden. This one seems as perfect as would be an early but non-Jenson P1800S. \r\n\r\nIs it weird to find the styling of this car simply beautiful in a quirky way?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522341523, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2115266, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@brigadooner\r\nIn this day and age I see \"weirdness\" as a good sign. Yes, liking the looks of a 96 is weird. Congratulations.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522344403, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2115355, "authorName": "wildcat2x", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wildcat2x/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "You've heard the term 'sexy ugly?' This is it wearing Hussar blue. Imagine how out of place this looked on my block growing up, an odd little Swedish tree in a forest of Detroit sequoias. Folks down the street were outliers who drove Saabs and Citroens and didn't mind if the curious checked out the four-wheeled spacecraft in their driveway. Funny thing though: the Saab/Citroen were still running long after everyone else's second trade-in. Guess they knew something we didn't. Riding in their 96 was like being inside a sewing machine. Great to see another one. GLWTA.", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1522346398, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2115372, "authorName": "Sael", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sael/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "A nice '67 and having the 1.7 over the original silver 1.5 is a nice upgrade but the amber '68 parking light lenses don't do it for me. Everyone goes nuts over the transmission freewheeling but trust me, the first time you lose your brakes on a long downhill due to a lack compression braking will be he last time you use it. I had a number of these and would always remove the lever. A more performance oriented cam along with the MMS exhaust really wakes up this motor. Good luck to seller and buyer.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1522346700, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2115425, "authorName": "Satch_Carlson", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/satch_carlson/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Must... resist.... Do NOT need another Saab....\r\n\r\nBUT\r\n\r\nIf I did, this one might be on my list. The later gearbox is definitely a plus. The freewheel system is made of gossamer and spider webs; designed for the (non-) torque of the oil-burning 850, it can be employed quite effectively behind the V4\u2014think of it as a pre-selector gearbox when you're sliding into an ice-racing curve\u2014but sleeving it (or brutally welding it) shut brings a certain peace of mind.\r\n\r\nTires? We once squeezed 195/60-15s under the rear fenders of a '67 V4 Monte Carlo (a rare bird, that), but I usually stuck with 165 Hakkas. Oh, the wheels? Those stock steelies are 4\" wheels, but the bad part is that early wheels had unreinforced bolt holes. The steel wheels from the 1969 Sonett V4 are 4-1/2\" wheels, but more important, the bolt holes are reinforced. I know that Garth Ankeny has at least one set of Sonett steelies stashed away in Oregon (along with a hoard\u2014see what I did there?\u2014of the alloy \"Chromodora-style\" wheels from the 1970 Sonett III).\r\n\r\nThe Bosch alternator might be scrapped in favor of a tiny Densu unit, which would allow access to the #1 spark plug.\r\n\r\nOh, and with so much attention to detail, why rebuild the trunk floor plates out of crappy plywood that looks like you peeled it off the windows of a condemned tenement?", "likes": 13, "timestamp": 1522347453, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2116086, "authorName": "2chevaux", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/2chevaux/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Oh mei, almost to nice to drive. Kudos to the seller for the no reserve auction but I guess nothing to worry here. It'll fetch some serious money well North of my abilities. For the moment being I'd settle for the steering wheel. So much better looking, than the later ones. Would look great on my wall next to the one of an early Duett. Beautiful 96 and lots to like. GLWTS", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522353689, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2116295, "authorName": "smitty122", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/smitty122/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\"Freewheel\" lever was definitely a 2 stroke leftover and it played hell on the later transaxles. I replaced my transmission and never used after that. It was fun to mess with however and I remember getting really good at getting the old 96 to coast to the gas station.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522355970, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2116322, "authorName": "austin_alfa", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/austin_alfa/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Too cool by half", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522356244, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2116366, "authorName": "BobD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bobd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@JIMMY : Chrome shift lever is a much earlier Saab, 3 spd trans I think.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522356830, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2116616, "authorName": "58_BN6", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/58_bn6/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is an interesting car - lot's to like here!\r\n\r\nCan someone please explain the freewheel system to me? Why not just take it out of gear and coast, like I've always done?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522360325, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2116636, "authorName": "58_BN6", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/58_bn6/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thanks Pedro. So I guess that means the 2-stroke didn't tolerate any engine braking? Must be an entirely different driving technique! Good luck with your auction!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522360874, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2116628, "authorName": "Pedro (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pedro/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hi @58_BN6 - The freewheeling system was necessitated on the two-cycle engines, used in the non V4 four-cycle 96s and earlier SAABs. If the driver lifted off the accelerator going down a hill or whatever, the cylinder walls would score and eventually lose compression. Because the manufacturer couldn't rely on the driver doing as you say and popping out of gear, this was a good plan to help the little 841cc engines last. \n\nEven though this was no longer a concern on the four-cycle engines, they didn't bother to change out that feature...", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1522360887, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2116669, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is a very very nice 96! I've expended my Saab stories on previous auctions so won't bore everyone with repetition except for one skip in the record. Freewheeling is awesome! As the son of an eccentric engineer whose first driving lesson for me was a lecture on fluid dynamics (an analogy to driving as cooperative social behavior, \"maintain the flow Grasshopper\"), my Dad's love of Saabs extends to my own appreciation. The art of gently throttling, shifting and coasting through the freewheeling was my introduction to the pure joy of commanding your machine with understanding and empathy. For the record, my Dad as an early hyper-miler claimed 35mpg with regularity.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1522362440, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2116896, "authorName": "JIMMY", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimmy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "As Valiantjim says, freewheel is important. Another benefit of the freewheel is reduced shock load on the coast side of the gearbox -- after rebuilding a few of these gearboxes I could tell which ones were driven in freewheel. As far as brake failure? I think that is more of a maintenance issue, old brake fluid,cheap brake pad material etc. Bicycle guys freewheel all the time! Pay attention to your pony and it will be lots of fun!\r\nThe black shift lever appeared for the first time with the black steering wheel and column in the 1968 model year. Some of the 1968 Shrike 2 strokes still used the '67 trim and body.\r\nThe orange 1968 front marker/ turn signal lights are on upside down. The smaller section should be to the outside. Nice Lucas design .......\r\nThe small dash warning lights are awesome, no labels! The dash was originally a matte finish. Last year for the dash mounted mirror. These cars look great in Hussar blue.\r\nA question for the seller, Any history on brake system repairs/ equipment?", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522371260, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2116931, "authorName": "Critter81", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/critter81/", "bidAmount": 5100, "content": "$5,100 bid placed by Critter81", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522372446, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 2117034, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Satch, I want to tell you how much I appreciate your contribution to articulation of the thoughtful car head. I was an avid fan of the Autoweek Satch columns in the days of big newsprint editions and updates on the Pig of Plastique. My son and I were on an \"epic\" road trip when he turned 17, circa 2000, and we were on the Montauk Ferry across Long Island Sound in the mid-week with no one on board and a fellow passenger was Kurt Vonnegut. At that point my son had read everything he wrote and a casual conversation was priceless. Appreciate your continued engagement. Despite the post-literate world we live in there are many who seek wisdom spoken artfully", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1522376769, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2117044, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "A connection that may not be noted is that Vonnegut as a struggling writer at one point in the mid-60s was a Saab dealer on Cape Cod, Hyannis. One of my Dad's Saabs came from his dealership and I enjoy the irony that dad was such a pure engineer he had no time or respect for literature or especially fiction. My mom and I kept a second library as an alternative to \"Theories of Spring Materials and Design\" to accommodate the full discussion.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1522377270, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2117048, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'm on a roll, last I promise. See \"Sirens of Titan\".", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522377536, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2117206, "authorName": "LikesWeirdCars", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/likesweirdcars/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Silly question: What is up with the shut lines on the front and rear lids? Were the lids not closed all the way for the photos?", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522388239, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2117412, "authorName": "Thaxted2bat", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thaxted2bat/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Is that plywood vintage?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522415064, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2117427, "authorName": "golfR", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/golfr/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Whoever scribed that plywood to fit did a workmanlike job. No complaints from me.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522415576, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2118018, "authorName": "dodsonjet1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dodsonjet1/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Satch - what's the part # for the Denso alternator? I have the same access issue to the #1 spark plug on my 1974 Sonett III. I've upgraded to an 85 amp Bosch single wire, but it's still giant.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522428354, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2119821, "authorName": "DannyD123", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dannyd123/", "bidAmount": 5250, "content": "$5,250 bid placed by DannyD123", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522451161, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 2120161, "authorName": "Sael", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sael/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Dodsonjet1: there was a SAAB tool that enabled you to reach the #1 plug without removing the alternator. I believe it came with the original tool kit although I did not know of its existence for quite some time. I still have one :-)", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522466662, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2120211, "authorName": "halfthrottle", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/halfthrottle/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If it had a single chrome strip on the sides I don\u2019t think I\u2019d be interested", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522471104, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2120232, "authorName": "Lewis", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lewis/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@valiantjim, in Kurt's last book \"Man Without a Country\" he wrote how when he left his Saab for a long period of time how the oil would separate out of the gas and it would lay down a heavy smoke screen. I would quote him directly but I can't find that book on my shelves. In it, there was a picture of his signature on his dealer letterhead as I recall.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522473436, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2120530, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Valiantjim\r\nI know that BaT is considered, by many newer participants, as primarily an upscale eBay. I, however, militantly maintain my right to use this site (as it was originally intended) as a place to hobnob with other motor-heads and eccentrics about the contraptions we love. Please don't refrain from retelling your stories if they're appropos.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1522507936, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2120613, "authorName": "Pedro (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pedro/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\"As I was cresting the hill, in the lead...\", okay, that's a story for another day. \n\nI'm right there with you @PDXBryan, ready to hear more SAAB stories :)", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522510745, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2120676, "authorName": "UPdabbler", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/updabbler/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "A couple of things crossed my mind when I saw this Saab. I worked for a Saab dealer while in college and then again later. He also carried Fiat (fix it again Tony), Remington chainsaw, Sunbeam, Yamaha, Sno-Jet, and maybe some other things I've forgotten by now. The owner Swedish and loved his Saabs. He was know for taking customers for test drives in the winter. He'd tell them to hold on and going down the 2 lane main street would give the steering wheel a jerk to the left and pulling up on the parking brake they'd make a 180 degree turn and head back to the shop. This was on a snowy road of course. Some customers liked it and some it scared the bejabbers out of them. As a note to another comment, I still have my \"special\" V4 spark plug wrench along with the 3-banger head torque socket and a Fiat tool or too. I used to buy my own so I didn't have to wait on another mechanic to finish with the tool I needed. BTW does anyone still own a Saab 3 banger that still has the Lifetime Warranty? I remember replacing an engine or two for free. Same color as the one I had, but mine had a lot of rust in the pan, how is the pan on this one? Rusted, repaired, or original? Best on the auction. If I wasn't 73 and didn't have 6 cars already, I would certainly be looking to buy.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1522513584, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2120864, "authorName": "JIMMY", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimmy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "One of the endearing features of these cars is the flat floor in the front. It enables your passenger to operate the gas pedal very easily. Or if the passenger falls asleep, and stretches out, his left foot slides under the gas pedal, severely reducing power output.\r\nThis is a really good year if you want the look of a 2-stroke with the performance of a V4.\r\nIs the paint on this car single stage or is it 2 stage with clear coat?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522526254, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2120903, "authorName": "Paul_B", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/paul_b/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Grew up with these, and drove them into my 30s. Some of the best cars in the world. I can't believe I don't still own one. Good luck to all.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522528875, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121007, "authorName": "brigadooner", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brigadooner/", "bidAmount": 5500, "content": "$5,500 bid placed by brigadooner", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522535078, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 2121010, "authorName": "brigadooner", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brigadooner/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have too many pretty cars and I need something that takes some guts or imagination to appreciate. And I need a closed car for late fall and early spring VSCCA rallies. This seems like the perfect New England foul weather classic ride.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522535258, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121014, "authorName": "evlkarl", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/evlkarl/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "That is one cool Buckel Saab like we call them in Germany.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522535554, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121016, "authorName": "Elanguy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/elanguy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Beautiful car. I had the same year and color 95 and it was a charmer, even though it was in pretty crummy condition.\r\n\r\nI will agree with Satch, make sure the freewheel lockout works. The brakes are fine in gentle terrain, but a long descent will fry the brakes without the lockout, despite what JIMMY says. Remember if you are in this situation that speed is your friend and trucks are your enemy, With free-wheeling the faster you descend the hill the safer you are. Until you catch up with a truck who is doing the opposite. I made a few illegal passes to save myself.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522535601, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121148, "authorName": "BILLINIL", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/billinil/", "bidAmount": 5600, "content": "$5,600 bid placed by BILLINIL", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522545709, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 2121308, "authorName": "VLM", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vlm/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "To give context to my comments, I have roughly a half dozen of the V4 Saabs around the \"farm\" in various stages of restoration. However, I wouldn't classify myself as an expert but I do know them. And what I also know (or least I think that I know) is that this is a very, very nice example. \r\n\r\nFirstly, a couple of critiques of this car. The dual chrome trim on the side of this car was used with Deluxe models and Monte Carlo 850s (the last of the 2 cycle Saabs). This car is neither. You can tell because it does not have the Saab tachometer which only came in these models nor does it have a 2 cycle motor. Also, the interior of these up market models often had a map pouch on the door panel. Also, the headrests are not stock to this year but from much later cars. That said, the 1967 is my personal favourite as it was the first Saab 96 with a V4 yet retaining the narrower windshields from the earlier years. They made the front and back windshields an inch taller after this. The smaller glass is a challenge to find if it breaks but you can always have a later piece cut down to fit.\r\n\r\nSecondly, ideally you don't want a 1967 block. It was an open deck block which was replaced with a closed deck block the following year. The closed deck was a superior engine in a number of ways. The good thing about this car is that it has a later 1700 engine in it (or later crankshaft). I'd suggest asking the seller to photograph the serial number which is located on the driver's side at the front of the block just in front of the cylinder head. Ideally, it will have an MX at the beginning of it which makes it a later Sonnet block. Even without the MX, you can track the number to figure out if it is a closed deck block. An open deck block is not the end of the world but won't take the abuse that a closed deck block will handle.\r\n\r\nThirdly, my points made \"firstly\" are pedantic poppycock. True but irrelevant. In my humble opinion, nobody should worry as to how Saab 96's were configured when they came from the factory because they are never worth much as a collector car (except for the very, very rare \"concours\" restoration). Saabs of this era are \"cheap as chips\" and this is great because they are an honest -to-god \"people's\" classic. A good bodied V4 worth restoring will set you back somewhere between $3k to $5k. (I have never been a fan of the \"strokers\" despite the fondness held in the BAT ownership and fandom community for these smoky oversize chainsaw motors.) A beautifully done, fully restored version like this will likely sell for about $15k. In other words, much below what it cost to get it in this condition if you count your time. And this is great. The cars are a hoot to drive, and because they aren't worth a bundle, they are driven as they should be; somewhat recklessly, revving like crazy, and with a sh*tface grin on your face. You can buy into them relatively cheaply, and when you get tired of being a Saabista, you give someone else the opportunity to get in the game cheaply while appreciating that your modest financial hit on the ownership cycle was more than made up with by the pleasures that the car returned to you ways only people who drive them can understand. \r\n\r\nBeginning of rant: This is how it should work in the classic car world dammit! And how it generally did work before the postage stamp collectors took control of the market. And by postage stamp collectors I mean people who buy a perfect example, put it in a climate controlled \"storage facility\" aka garage and drag it out for viewing under a magnifying glass from time to time. Average income people could afford to drive and/or race Jags, Porches, even Astons before classic cars became an \"investment\". God help us. (And in a moment of full hypocritical disclosure, and before I\u2019m \u201couted\u201d by one of those few individuals who know me, I own a couple of those afore-mentioned postage stamp cars. But in my defense, I've been thinking about selling them on BAT as I\u2019m reluctant to drive them as I drive the Saab 96s.) End of rant.\r\n\r\nAnd what would I do to this car if I purchased it (which I really, really hope that I don't as \"enuf is enuf\")? Throw away (or rather store) the ridiculously uncomfortable slipper-slidey seats and put in a couple of Recarro inspired seats from the Honda Accords or Civic SIs circa 2000. Re-upholster the ugly door panels, add some nice carpeting for a bit of a luxe feel, and replace the holey headliner. I'd track down a Saab Deluxe tachometer on the Swedish equivalent of eBay (the name of which I can't remember at the moment) and reconfigure the dashboard. Next I'd redo the seat upholstery in a plaid theme which was done on the 850 I believe (think plaid 911 or 928). I'd upgrade the carb with a downdraft Weber, open up the heads to breath a bit better, change the rims to Saab soccer balls and maybe widen the tires (as I'm not familiar with the Bridgestone Pole Positions). Next, I\u2019d put in an electric fan, maybe do a mild Saab Sport & Rally grind on the cam, disable or lock the free wheeler (which will eventually do damage to your drive train in that moment of stupidity when you engage when you really, really shouldn't have), sound deaden the doors and floors (adds weight but just makes the car feel so much more solid), order a new set of correct door rubbers from saabklubben.se, and then, well then, I would drive it like a crazy man because you can seldom go fast enough to do serious damage to yourself and your \"peeing in their pants\" passengers.", "likes": 11, "timestamp": 1522561467, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121506, "authorName": "Wildcat95", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wildcat95/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@VLM, I\u2019m going to go ahead and classify you as an \u201cExpert.\u201d", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522593905, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121562, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@VLM\r\nAmen brother! \r\nNot an expert, huh? My car in HS was a beat up Sonnet. Growing up in Alaska, before the advent of Subaru 4WD, the old Saabs were the go-to car for folks that wanted winter traction, decent mileage, and fun. The mechanic that helped me with my \"pitiful Saab\" would probably give you a big thumbs up for all your recommendations. He had a hot rodded 96 that surprised many unsuspecting sports cars. I'm also with you that there's got to be something classic left for the rest of us, for krisesakes!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522596802, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121593, "authorName": "Carabunga", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/carabunga/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Now the important question...\r\n\r\n@Pedro - does the clock work?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522598679, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121656, "authorName": "BobD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bobd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@VLM - You are incorrect on the double side trim. I've never quite figured the the 'trim' levels that were available in '67 , but the double trim came on 'standard' models as well as the '67 'V4 Monte Carlo' that also had special seat upholstery and the tach in the dash. There was a more 'base' model with shiny trims above the wheels and no double trim. The tach dash continued in later years of the 'Deluxe' model in '68 and '69.\r\nThe map pouch in door panels was only in the special interiors of the 'GT' and 'Monte Carlo'\r\n2-stroke models. The '67 'V4 Monte Carlo' model had the double trims, dash with tach, wood/aluminum steering wheel, and the GT/Monte Carlo seat upholstery, but standard door panels. The '68-9 'Deluxe' had double trims and tach dash, but otherwise were standard V4 96's.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1522602025, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121720, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@BobD\r\nCan you imagine being the designer in charge of those decisions? Put the shiny wheel trims on this one...no put those on that one but add another side trim, then delete the side badge and put it on the other one....", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522606074, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121738, "authorName": "BobD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bobd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@ PDXBryan - I think a lot of the trim changes came about as they ran out of special items they stopped installing. The 'V4 Monte Carlo' - dash, steering wheel and seats, but not the door panels as in the stroker Monte Carlo. It also appears that this model was available early in the model year but not later. Seems there may have been trims for certain markets - Europe vs Export ?? > I'd forgotten about the fancy rim trims in addition to hub caps on the stroker Monte Carlo and GT850.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522607548, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2121886, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@BobD\nBack when I had my Sonnet in Alaska I had another high school bud with a 99EMS. We were obviously Saab nuts. The local Saab dealer, who was a real \"piece 'o work\", got in a nice used Monte Carlo (or 850 GT). We went to take a look at it and before long that nutty dealer had us in the car flying down the snow covered road with the 2 stroke screamin', doing his best Erik Carlsson imitation involving, of course, a couple handbrake 180s. Other than the wild ride, I remember all the cool details like the wood rimmed wheel and the fabric sun roof. My friend and I never got the money together unfortunately.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522618268, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2122021, "authorName": "Sael", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sael/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@BobD\nYou are correct about the double side trim on the 1967 model 96's. My first 96 was a '67 identical to this car except I had the wheel trim rings. My last 96 was a '67 Monte Carlo V4 and it was trimmed as you described but it came with the wheel trim rings also, I added soccer ball wheels and a 7000 rpm 1.7, it flew even with the horrid gear ratios.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522628455, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2122038, "authorName": "BobD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bobd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@PDXBryan \r\n 850GT would have been a bullnose, Monte Carlo long-nose.\r\nFabric sun roof is/was a rare factory option, extremely hard to find these days.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522629719, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2122066, "authorName": "VLM", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vlm/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@BobD\r\nThanks for the clarification on the trims. It is mightily confusing, and I suspect that @ PDXBryan probably has it right in that various accoutrements were added here and there as models ended and others began. A couple of my cars have the wooden rims and I love them. What I forgot to mention is the need for a power brake booster. The problem is that they are not easy to find (unless I haven't looked in the right places). I'm not at all happy with the amount of pressure need to make a quick stop. I may put an electric brake booster in one of them. I love the electric booster in my Jag XK150 but it's rather an expensive add-on ($1100) for a \"people's car\". In regards to the open deck engine, the Finnish Rally car that I purchased came with an 1853 cc (you use VW 94 mm pistons with the 1700 crank) open deck block which I was going to swap out for a closed deck block but I see that the Subaru people make a \"girdle\" to strengthen the block but still allow the enhanced cooling that comes with the open deck. They call it a semi-closed deck. I'm going to look into it to see how feasible it is for the Saab engine (as I hate to throw away a perfectly good over-bored block). This engine also had a balance shaft bushing rotate which is why we pulled it apart after a recent \"rebuild\" in Finland. It is quite the engine to behold what with the dual cross flows and side draft Webers sitting astride the dual port big valve heads. It even has a FIA Passport. A brute of a car to drive (perhaps the nature of a real rally car) which I would like to soften a bit when we get it back together.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1522631977, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2122075, "authorName": "Paul_B", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/paul_b/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "OK, I know this is sick, but I actually know this stuff. I grew up with SAABs of exactly this vintage in the family, and drove almost nothing but SAABs until my early 30s. I raced them and daily drove them. My first personal SAAB was a 1960 93F with 110,000 miles on it, bought for $295 when I was in college. When the 99 was introduced, I tried one, was bored, and never bought a new SAAB. \n\nHere's what happened with models and trim. \n\nSAAB introduced the V4 in Europe in mid-1966. It was a hit, reviving seriously falling SAAB sales in a down year for other makers. People were tired of the 2-strokes and DKW had just failed with its 2-stroke F102, which became the Audi 60, 70 and Super 90 four-strokes under Volkswagen's wing and led to great success for Audi.\n\nSAAB introduced the V4 in the US in mid-1967, in time for the 1967 NY Auto Show in April. I was there and saw it. This half-year model is what is for sale on this auction, with low windshield and rear window, no tachometer, and missing only the Monte Carlo aluminum wheel trim rings and BIAS ply whitewall tires that came standard on it. An ugly combination, but it was SAAB's way of getting some visual attention for the new engine with limited resources. I'd love to buy this particular car but can't. Car & Driver immediately tested the '67 US V4 and liked it except for the low windshield. \n\nThe '67 European 2-strokes carried standard trim (over the wheel arches on the sedan and the front wheel arches on the wagon), an alternator, and disc front brakes. US 2-strokes for '67 carried all that but, perhaps for pricing reasons against VW, had drum brakes all around. SAABs were always a little more expensive than Beetles, and that could be a tough sell. SAAB Motors in the US started calling the 2-strokes Shrikes and offered them with a lifetime engine warranty, since many US customers were too clueless to keep their engines properly timed and tuned, spark plugs changed and gapped, and add oil to the tank BEFORE adding gas. The two-stroke engines, properly treated, were good for 200,000 miles. Ask me how I know. \n\nSAAB offered a small number of standard 46-horsepower 2-stroke sedans with separate oil injection from the Monte Carlo in '67, once again to use up Monte parts. For me, this is the ultimate standard 2-stroke sedan. A friend had one. I drove it and loved it. It was smooth, and felt powerful, quiet and refined. \n\nSAAB built some 60-horsepower Monte Carlo 850 2-strokes for '67 and a small number of 73-horsepower Monte Carlo V4s to use up Monte Carlo interior and trim parts. These cars are all rare and I'd love to have a V4. \n\nIn '68, SAAB offered a 2-stroke Shrike model with 816-cc engine to dodge US emissions regulations, a lifetime engine warranty, the low windshield and rear window, and regressive specs including drum brakes and a generator rather than an alternator. It was like a '66 SAAB with '67 interior improvements -- definitely a price leader and an effort to use up 2-stroke parts. I think the engines were actually 850s because I'm told that SAAB advised dealers to use regular 850 pistons to repair the engines. It was a long time ago, the company is gone, and who would the EPA sue now for a few CCs of displacement? I had a couple of those but never had the engines apart. \n\n'68 SAAB 96 V4s came in two versions in the US: Standard and DeLuxe. The Standard was like the '67 two-stroke, but with a new higher windshield and rear window and of course disc brakes as on all V4s. Very nice car. The '68 DeLuxe was a real step up, with the Monte Carlo low trim strips, chrome rear side window surrounds, wheel trim rings, radial tires, cloth-and-vinyl upholstery, tachometer, and radial tires. My mom and dad bought a brand new one, trading in our used '65 Monte Carlo 850, and I thought we had really made it in America. I was clueless.\n\nThe '68 SAAB 95 wagon came in two-stroke Shrike (low-windshield, drum brake) version and V4 (high-windshield, disc brake) version. \n\nSAAB started the 1969 US model year with no 2-strokes and the same V4 lineup as in 1968. But the company was getting ready to introduce the new 99, which I saw at the 1969 NY auto show. At showtime in April, SAAB dropped the 96 V4 Standard, took some items off the 96 Deluxe, and left the \"stripped\" DeLuxe as the only 96 for sale. It had the two low trim strips on the sides, and no longer had the chrome rear side window surround, the wheel trim rings, or tachometer. I don't recall whether radial tires were standard, but they could be had. A salesman told me what had happened. And he knew, because the 96 and 95 that were at the NY auto show were delivered straight to the dealership where he worked, Wallace Scott Motors in Briarcliff Manor, NY. I saw them there and recognized them: they still had the cardboard \"SAAB 95\" and \"SAAB 96\" license tags on them from the show! The sedan was green, the wagon was white. For me, this was the beginning of the end of SAAB. The company was clearly trying to attract more well-to-do customers to the 99, and the fun, scrappy 96 was clearly going to be marginalized. I always thought the 96 should have been turned into the little hot-rod SAAB to compete with the BMW 1600 and 2002, but SAAB never saw the potential and let the 96 drift. \n\nIn 1970, SAAB continued its late 1969 strategy with the 95 and 96. Radial tires were standard on both cars. Friends of mine bought them. In 1971, the 95 and 96 carried new, identical side trim.\n\nMy dad and mom wrecked their beautiful '68 DeLuxe (no injuries in a collision with a Ford Country Squire -- go SAAB!) in winter of 1972 and immediately bought a brand new '72 96 off the showroom floor at New Salem Garage outside Albany, New York. It was the last new SAAB our family ever bought. 1973 was the final year for the 95 and 96 in the US. The mother of a high school friend of mine bought a '73 96 and loved it. \n\nThe car on auction is a rare and very nice half-year '67 US V4. Someone will get a fine classic driver here, and I hope prices don't go high enough to make these cars undesirable as drivers. They are way too much fun to be simply collector cars sitting in garages. \n\nIn case the buyer is interested, I have a brand new -- still in the clear plastic bag with SAAB logo -- set of aluminum wheel trim rings to fit the car on auction. I assure you. this car was delivered new with this style trim ring. I bought them years ago at a dealer while in my nine-year journey with my '66 96 two-stroke I'd acquired second-hand in 1974 and drove with pleasure. Although I had other 95s and 96s, I still miss that car; it is my iconic SAAB. I never installed the trim rings because I had another set already on the car. They were spares. They can be yours. Just let me know and we'll get together on it. \n\nGood luck with the buy and the sale.", "likes": 10, "timestamp": 1522633253, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2122101, "authorName": "BobD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bobd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@VLM\r\nMy '67 is running 4-piston Wilwood calipers using a mount adapter. Still requires a pretty hefty push, but I think I'm getting a lot more braking per # of push.\r\nThe wood wheels are beautiful, but I find the amount of flex in the rim to be a bit unsettling.\r\nI've considered researching cars of the period that used remote vacuum boosters.\r\nNot sure what Subaru engine would be similar to the open deck V4. Seems the problem would be in the upper cylinder wall and external work won't reinforce that.\r\nI'd think the easiest solution would be to have a machinist bore a later block to match your open deck. For carbs and more useful power do some research on Jack Lawrence's development of workable power from the V4. I believe the dual downdraft 2-barrel carb set up may be better for useable power. Jacks most developed engines often used a single large Solex 2-barrel on a custom manifold. See auction of the '67 GT3 car I bought earlier this year.\r\nIt's running a Weber IDA adapted in place of the Solex.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522634989, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2122208, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@BobD\r\n@VLM\r\n@Paul_B\r\nI think I'll just go ahead and publish y'all's comments into a hand-out on Saab 96s. This is precisely why I love BaT.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1522647271, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2122273, "authorName": "Paul_B", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/paul_b/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@PDXBryan, glad I was able to get this geeky level of detail out to anyone who might be able to use it. :)", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522668584, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2122414, "authorName": "golfR", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/golfr/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The geeky detail is a benefit to the buyer and seller alike, and a treat to the peanut gallery. Thanks.", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1522678463, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2122459, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@golfR\nOr how about:\nThis trove of technical detail is a benefit to the buyer and seller alike, and a treat to Saab afficionados world wide. Thanks.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522680448, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124111, "authorName": "Crazyas00", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/crazyas00/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Wow! What commentary! This is guaranteed Saab Geekism! Amazing what an old, quirky, and egg shaped car will do to people. So much love and knowledge. I have certainly learned more than I ever knew about 96's. Or 95's. Or hate for 99's. My Goodness! Thank-You All! oh, the car is nice too.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522714361, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124310, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Someone copy/paste and write a book...", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522721840, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124344, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Alright PDX, I'll repeat myself with my best \"growing up with Saabs\" story. \r\n\r\nMy Dad drove Saabs from the mid-50's through a new 1973 96 that he wore out and traded for a low mileage 1973 and it was all over when that one was done. He commuted from Mattapoisett where he indulged his sailing passion while working as chief developmental engineer for the Foxboro Company, a 50 mile commute. In 1971 I took my drivers license test in a 69 96 (great symmetry). Massachusetts license tests at the time were comprehensive road tests including acceleration to highway speed, a maze of turns with a variety of traffic controls, parallel parking, three point turn and pulling away from a stop on a hill without rolling back. The inspector seemed to have never seen a Saab before and questioned me and my mother (Dad was at work of course) if I really intended to test in such an unusual car. We insisted, he got in and as I prepared to pull away he freaked as I was obviously in reverse (column shift 4spd). After calming the poor guy down I got to pull away from the curb, clutching from a standstill but then shifting through the gears up to fourth without touching the clutch (free-wheeling). He pulled out his form sheet and wrote up a full \"pass\", shaking his head and saying any kid that could drive this weird thing deserved a license.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1522723020, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124362, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "For students of evolutionary 20th century engineering and expressions in automotive design, another anecdote. My dad was a protege of Bucky Fuller, he used to go sailing with us when coming out to hang around MIT. Take a look at his Dymaxion Transport, the fusion of auto/aero engineering and the principles of Scandinavian design. For a last laugh at the time of my driving test another car in the stable was a 48 Packard. Not much of an example of the derivative \"less is more\" school but had the look. I chuckle at the thought of taking my driving test in that.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522724797, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124442, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Valliantjim\r\nExcellent!\r\nI'm probably repeating myself, but my first exposure to a Saab 96 was getting to ride shotgun doing backwards brodies in a snowy church parking lot. It may have even been my first time in a FWD car!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522729263, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124455, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Ah jeez, it's like a flood of memory. Early 70's there was a fad for \"streaking\"... Strip and run through a public space. I dropped a brave friend on the inbound side of a Jack In The Box and trying to race around to the other side got blocked by customer cars. Buddy \"streaked\" out the other side and kept on running. Had to chase down the street to save his \"ass\", dive into the trunk. 96s have impressive trunk volume you know. It was the 70s...", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522729737, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124472, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@PDX, this is pretty funny. Not exactly scrutiny of paint runs and proper door seal texture.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522730606, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124474, "authorName": "BILLINIL", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/billinil/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "hello whiz kids! since we seem to have the worlds greatest collection of saab expert on here maybe you could answer a saab question for me. while working at midway airport in the 90s they had two saabs, 99s i think, painted yellow with black checkerboards on them. in the back they had large water tanks and the fronts were full of computer equip. they were skid testers. drivers would go full bore down the 6300 + ft runway and slam on the brakes in rainy or snowy conditions and relay the braking reports to airliners on approach. ive always wondered why saabs and if this was a one off or saabs did this duty world wide. if any one knows you guys do. back in the day the only saabs i saw where driven by tweedy pipe smokers and later counter culture artist types. well experts?", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522730705, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124480, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "LMAO, awesome characterization of SAAB types but you're right, I bet some one in the general vicinity knows what was going on. From my own perspective: Saab types = engineers.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522730883, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124488, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In a purely speculative but engineering thought experiment I wonder if the neutral rear wheels of an early front wheel drive chassis might have provided a handy analog to the equally neutral wheels of aircraft landing gear... as you note a test run against potentially sketchy runway conditions. I'm only making that up of course but some degree of analysis is on my side", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522732044, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124489, "authorName": "Valiantjim", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/valiantjim/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'm fascinated to hear if someone can cite some truth?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522732123, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2124518, "authorName": "AJSharx", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ajsharx/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I saw this and had to send the link to my best friend. His dad was a big PR guy for NASA in Silicon Valley back in the 60's and 70's and had I think a 97 model that was a bit newer than this one here. Back years ago, my friend had it out and he was parked along a street and told me, \"Watch this, I am gonna do a front-wheel drive burnout\". So he certainly \"lights\" the tires, produces a bit of smoke and then lets off the gas. He then turns the corner and lo and behold a Motorcycle cop comes running out of the taco stand on the corner still holding his burrito and yells at us to pull over. No bit of fast talkin' could get us out of the ticket he wanted to give my pal for interrupting his lunch.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1522736849, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2125023, "authorName": "LikesWeirdCars", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/likesweirdcars/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Do you remember which taco stand it was? It just might still be there.... :D\r\n\r\nLa Costena has moved, but is still around. Hmm, might have to get me a burrito for lunch!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1522769669, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2125441, "authorName": "DufusPrime", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dufusprime/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hi All. I'm a long time lurker but I've got to bid on this one. Around 1980 my dad's best friend--an engineer and a Swede--was thinking about selling his 96, a two-stroke from 65-67 in the same blue as this car. I drove it a few times and met his asking price but he decided to hang on to it instead. Frustrated, I found a '76 99GL sedan instead, a poor replacement I knew only too well. Maybe this time?", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1522779098, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2125444, "authorName": "DufusPrime", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dufusprime/", "bidAmount": 5900, "content": "$5,900 bid placed by DufusPrime", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522779142, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 2125643, "authorName": "bringatrailer", "authorUrl": "", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "We've just added more photos of the exterior/trunk to the end of the gallery, plus two videos. Thanks!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1522781637, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 2125655, "authorName": "Pedro (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pedro/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hello interested SAAB 96 V4 prospects,\r\n\r\nI am really enjoying the commentary from everyone and I will share my own SAAB experiences later, but I wanted to alert you to a number of new photos and a couple of videos that will help showcase its condition. I wasn\u2019t searching for one of these when I stumbled upon it years ago but it was clearly an amazingly rust-free example in an ascetically pleasing color. \r\n\r\nTo address a few of the questions, I\u2019ve done some homework over the holiday weekend:\r\n\r\n@Satch_Carlson \u2013 The trunk floor plates have been painted a matte gray so they look more appropriate in the otherwise clean and original rear compartment. Not \u2018as delivered\u2019 but definitely an improvement for the car you know you would like to have. \u263a \r\n\r\n@JIMMY \u2013 The front marker lights have been removed and reinstalled properly. That was starting to bother me too once I realized it. The braking system (1967 was first year for the front discs) has been checked out and is in good working order.\r\n\r\n@LikesWeirdCars \u2013 The \u2018shut lines\u2019 in the front and rear bonnets are in fact fitted correctly. I\u2019ve added a couple new photos that show how the top bodyline on the doors extends to the hood/fender lines to continue that appearance. The trunk li