[{"id": 14165349, "authorName": "SAABY7", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saaby7/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Love her\u2764\ufe0f", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1712940374, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14165358, "authorName": "oldskoolfan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/oldskoolfan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "A neighbor friend's Dad bought one of these in 1977 when we were in high school. We would take it out on the road by Crystal Springs Reservoir and he would open it up. This car flew down that road! It would be great to see this project restored and back on the road again. GLWTA!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1712940420, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14165440, "authorName": "DOBRHI", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobrhi/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I\u2019m like\u2026.Saab? Never have I ever seen one of these before. What an amazing looking little \u201cfastback\u201d! Love it.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1712940973, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14165559, "authorName": "DOBRHI", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobrhi/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Just a quick Wiki scan lists successor engine to be Ford Pinto. Who\u2019d would have thought the Pinto could be a donor for epic classic car rescue.?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1712941682, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14165618, "authorName": "RoundHeadlights", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/roundheadlights/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@DOBRHI Not so much a Pinto, but a German Ford V4, built in Cologne. With lots of torque, these engines were used in a bunch of commercial applications, especially portable sawmills in N. America. These are quirky, but very cool cars.", "likes": 10, "timestamp": 1712942191, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14165706, "authorName": "JIMMY", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimmy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "It's a fantastic project for someone that has a running V4 to drop into this car. Or a real easy way to fix a rusty Sonett with a good drive train. Rust free Sonetts are hard to find, from the pics this one looks good - off the road for 27 years is a good thing!", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1712942601, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14165773, "authorName": "fitfan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fitfan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@dobrhi. i have 3 formula cars i race and they all have the \"kent/pinto\" block, my FF are x-flow kent/pinto's (pinto is used differently in various markets) and my historic formula B is a lotus twin cam, which is the same block. it is probably one of the most prevalent race engines ever made!. Kent, early pinto (not the sohc pinto) lotus twin cam, and cosworth BDx. \n\nAnyways this is a cologne V4 (not to be confused with the essex v4). this is the same engine in my Matra M530. and started life in the ford Taunus (FWD application). a bit of trivia, the first mustang concept car was a strong italian style exercise and used this engine in mid engine configuration. (like in my Matra). oh what could have been! gorgeous exotic looking car. and now you know why the mustang got fake side intakes, they were originally scoops to cool this engine. \n\nweird little engine today, less so in era. its not a particularly great or high performance engine. however they are pretty durable and i can tell you from first hand experience that you could run it for hours, day after day, through twisty roads full throttle and on the highway at 4 - 5k RPM and it just keep going and going strong. peters out stock close around 6k rpm.", "likes": 10, "timestamp": 1712943026, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14165904, "authorName": "jbk23", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jbk23/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@DOBRHI I had the pleasure of test driving one of these in the 1990\u2019s. It was this color, too. A Polish grad student in New Mexico was finishing up and planned to sell before he moved back to Poland. My SAAB mechanic cautioned me I should get a parts car, too. We already had two cars in our 2-car garage and a small driveway with barely room to keep one outside so I passed. That Sonnet III with the Ford V4 was fun on city streets.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1712943445, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14166377, "authorName": "Ndr614", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ndr614/", "bidAmount": 400, "content": "$400 bid placed by Ndr614", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1712944910, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14166417, "authorName": "Tom_S.", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "These are cool cars. \r\nBring a Motor. \r\nGLWA", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1712945048, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14166959, "authorName": "OldSaab", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/oldsaab/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is almost the twin of my \u201873, although mine was built early enough to avoid the bumpers. For decades, I had said mine was \u201cred\u201d, because the color was officially called \u201cBaja Red\u201c. I have since had to admit that this is really more orange, and those with better color acuity have called it \u201cburnt orange\u201c. Regardless, this is a wonderful car, great to drive, and handles well. If you really want to push it into something like autocross, it does need an anti-rollbar in the front to tame the under steer.\r\n\r\nWhile less than 9,000 of the Sonett III were built in its five-year run, parts are surprisingly available. As noted earlier, the engine has been used in a couple other vehicles as well as a number of industrial applications. Much of the suspension comes from the Saab 95/96, which had a much more extensive run. Even parts unique to this car can be found in a couple places, including the Swedish Sonett Club that has started manufacturing replacement parts (including sheet metal for the frame, and even some of the fiberglass!).\r\n\r\nMark Ashcraft is the person to see about rebuilding the engine. (He recently moved to Southern California.)\r\n\r\nThis is a 51 year-old car and will take significant effort (and $$) to restore. To the lucky person who sees the potential and can follow through, this will be a treasure!", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1712946768, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14167044, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "My first car was a \u201871 Sonett and it was LOTs of fun! It was also LOTs of fiddling as it had previously been an ice racer in Fairbanks, Alaska. I modded it with some cool parts from MSS but ended up selling it to a rally racer of some notoriety.\nThere was some talk below about engines. To be clear, these used the Ford Cologne V-4 that was related to the Cologne V-6 of Capri fame. They aren\u2019t noted for high performance, but in my experience they\u2019re fun and spunky in such a well balanced and light chassis. They also have a history of success in rally racing (mostly in Saab 96s) and Jack Lawrence won the NE Division SCCA championships in 1982-4 and the national title in \u201883 in his racing Sonett.\nI didn\u2019t know until today that it looks like the Simeon Museum has Jack\u2019s race car!\n\nhttps://simeonemuseum.org/photos/the-saab-racing-spirit-lives-on/\n(Scroll through pictures for #97)", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1712947083, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14167203, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "..and here\u2019s a great article about making a V-4 Sonett really go!\r\nhttps://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/beast-of-sweden-saab-sonett-iii\r\n\r\nMaybe someone will get inspired!\r\n\r\nLegend has it that there were some crazy Frankenstein Sonetts that raced in the Fur Rondy Grand Prix in Anchorage, Ak back in the day. Supposedly there were Porsche powered and Rotary powered monsters competing! The only person I know of who might know fact from fiction is @Satch_Carlson.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1712947545, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14168177, "authorName": "rvanderson", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rvanderson/", "bidAmount": 501, "content": "$501 bid placed by rvanderson", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1712950899, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14168538, "authorName": "spuh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/spuh/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Since we're off on an engines tangent here, let me remind all that when SAAB went hunting for an engine to replace their 2-stroke, one other contender was Lancia's narrow angle V-4. What a difference that engine would have made from the rather unlovely Ford lump! And since this car now needs an engine, anybody have a spare Fulvia engine to auction off?", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1712951936, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14168600, "authorName": "ekmcmullen", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ekmcmullen/", "bidAmount": 601, "content": "$601 bid placed by ekmcmullen", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1712952138, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14169230, "authorName": "fitfan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fitfan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "all,\r\nMark Ashcraft did move to Cali. however he is retired and has no shop, no parts, and is doing no work. just want to clarify that since it was mentioned below. if the car happens to stay in California area - i have an engine very reputable engine builder that is becoming familiar with these, via my spare engine we are hot rodding a bit.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1712954665, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14169945, "authorName": "corebuddy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/corebuddy/", "bidAmount": 750, "content": "$750 bid placed by corebuddy", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1712957825, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14170104, "authorName": "JIMMY", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimmy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Another possible engine swap would be the Mighty Three!\r\nThe 850 cc 2-stroke is really fun in a Sonett!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1712958963, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14171436, "authorName": "jayhostetter", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jayhostetter/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "what happened to the original heads? How hard is it to find replacement heads? why were the heads removed in the first place?.....???", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1712972472, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14172081, "authorName": "kkherman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kkherman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The engine - no matter what version - is really not the problem when restoring a Sonett. The most important thing is the condition of the supporting steel structure.\n\nBut with any luck, the engine's early death prevented the worst of the corrosion damage.\n\nAfter that, it's best to leave out the ugly US-bumpers and have a nice little sports car.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1712990396, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14172099, "authorName": "Ndr614", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ndr614/", "bidAmount": 850, "content": "$850 bid placed by Ndr614", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1712991758, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14172902, "authorName": "Llauten60", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/llauten60/", "bidAmount": 950, "content": "$950 bid placed by Llauten60", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713016866, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14173017, "authorName": "Saabman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabman/", "bidAmount": 1050, "content": "$1,050 bid placed by Saabman", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713018037, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14173247, "authorName": "ein460", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ein460/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Are the cylinder heads the same for a 1.5 and 1.7 L engine?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713020287, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14174286, "authorName": "LoTex", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lotex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@OldSaab- I used to 'color' for a living (so my kids thought), sort of. From the Crayola box of 64 I would say it is closer to Vermilion, an orangey-red, than Burnt Orange.\r\n\r\nI can say with great confidence that no one who ever attended the University of Texas would consider this color Burnt Orange. Hook 'em!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713028007, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14174533, "authorName": "bjmckenz", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bjmckenz/", "bidAmount": 2051, "content": "$2,051 bid placed by bjmckenz", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713029084, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14174610, "authorName": "OldSaab", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/oldsaab/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@spuh a Lancia transplant would be very interesting. It\u2019s the same front drive layout with an aluminum block and overhead cam \u2026 and more power (stock).\r\n\r\nWhich probably isn\u2019t going to help with auction, but an interesting sidebar to contemplate!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713029320, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14174838, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@fitfan\r\nI used to take my Sonett to a shop in Fairbanks, Ak called Sunshine Rae Motors run by a gentleman named Richard Entwhistle. He was known for getting max power out of V-4s! Also, Trackside Motorsports in Portland is knowledgable about them too.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713030130, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14175553, "authorName": "Hervey_Engineering", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/hervey_engineering/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Is there a way to fit the Taunus-related Capri V6 (also of Ford Ranger fame)? They are all Cologne versions, no?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713032821, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14178423, "authorName": "SaabEnthusiast", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabenthusiast/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I myself own a '71 (which also came from Alaska). They are extremely fun cars. The engines in these cars are very durable and easy to work on. Like mentioned below, the engine was essentially a Ford Cologne V6 with two cylinders chopped off. The V4 in the Sonetts were meant for the Ford \"Cardinal\" which was supposed to come to the states but never did (eventually evolving into the Falcon). However, although the engines were durable, the transmissions would show wear if driven hard. It's important to make sure transmission fluid is always in the transmission as there is no dipstick and can easily be overlooked. It's important to not drive the transmissions too hard as they can cause issues down the road. I personally have not had any issues, but I have made sure that fluid is always present and that the car isn't being beat on.\r\n\r\nLike @OldSaab mentioned, parts can be found rather easily. Facebook groups help a lot. Many parts manufacturers overseas such as R&D Parts, Classic Saab Parts NL, and Sonett Club Sweden (although they can sometimes be difficult to get in touch with). Parts with the Sonett were shared with the other Saabs at the time (Saab 95 & 96). The engines were pretty much identical, as were brake, suspension and other wheel hub components. However, in terms of Mark Ashcraft (who took over Jack Ashcraft (his father), is no longer in business. He retired in the past couple years. I was in touch \r\n\r\nWhen purchasing a Sonett, the big thing is rust. In this case, it was a California car and you assume there is little rust. A giveaway is that the jack points on the rocker panels are in rather pristine condition, and they are usually the part of the rockers that rust out first. This car would make a great project as there seems to be no rust to worry about. The interior is in nice shape too. If possible, @seller could you provide more pictures of underneath the front floor mats? That is a common spot for rust as well.\r\n\r\nThis looks to be a pretty nice car! Once the next owner gets it running, it will be a wonderful driving experience. Good luck to whoever purchases it! And of course, GLWTA!", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1713046134, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14178426, "authorName": "SaabEnthusiast", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabenthusiast/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@JIMMY, I've seen one Sonett III swapped with a Saab two stroke engine. It was from a standard 96, but a Monte Carlo engine would be rad!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1713046194, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14178494, "authorName": "LarryCorvette", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/larrycorvette/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@seller Any back DMV fees due for a California buyer? Registration up to date or on a NON OP? Thanks", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713046986, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14179413, "authorName": "BobD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bobd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@ein460 : yes the heads are same on all versions of the V4 in Saabs.\r\nBasically the only difference between the 1.5 and 1.7 are crankshaft and pistons.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713061730, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14179606, "authorName": "Dkars1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dkars1/", "bidAmount": 2500, "content": "$2,500 bid placed by Dkars1", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713065639, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14179619, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hello BaT audience, will attempt to answer some of your questions.\r\n\r\nIn terms of the non-op question regarding someone who would purchase in California.\r\nIt is my understanding that non-op fees do not apply to \u201chistorical vehicles\u201d, which are cars that are more than 35 years old, all vehicles 35 years and older are considered historical, and also are exempt from a regular smog test ( or at least 25 years, and designated as a historical vehicle) , so long as the car has not been operating on the streets. \r\nHere are some quotes regarding the above subject.\r\nThere is a directive in the CA DMV code book, 4604(d)3, that exempts most old cars from having any back penalties due to not registering vehicles or not placing them in a \"non-op\" status. \r\nVehicle code section 4604 (d) (3) exempts vehicles described in VC 5004 from the Planned Non-operation program. VC 5004 describes vehicles of historic value (\"at least 25 years old and of historic interest\"). It does not say that the car has to be registered under 5004, just has to meet the description.\r\nThe DMV clerk had heard about this exemption, and just had me fill out a statement of facts, requesting that the penalties be waived. \r\n\r\nPlanned nonoperation (PNO) requirements do not apply to historical interest and special interest vehicles.\r\nnote: A special interest vehicle is a vehicle of any age that is unaltered from the manufacturer's original specifications and, because of its significance includes, but is not limited to, an out of production vehicle or a model that had less than 2,000 sold in California in a model year that is collected, preserved, restored, or maintained by a hobbyist as a leisure pursuit.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713065865, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14179698, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In terms of the engine it is a Ford Taunus V4 1.7L . The 1.7 V4 engine was also used in various industrial applications, therefore parts are still available.\r\n\r\nThere is a business in South Dakota that specializes in the Ford V4 motor parts. I will attach the web-link here:\r\nhttps://fordv4parts.myshopify.com/\r\n\r\nThe owner has fully rebuilt heads for the Saab V4 engine @ the cost of $475/head. He also runs an eBay store, which many Saab V4 engine parts are for sale, including a fully rebuilt V4 engine.\r\nHere is the descriptive quote for the listing and the link for the rebuilt heads. \r\nhttps://www.ebay.com/itm/265074493622?itmmeta=01HVD8G3QC3Y8DTY9FWPCV1KP8&hash=item3db7abc8b6:g:y3wAAOSw55ZgPrMi\r\n\r\nSaab Sonett 104 CID V4 1.7 liter rebuilt cylinder head, new valves\r\n\r\n\u201cA rebuild cylinder head for the Saab / Ford V4 1.7 liter closed deck block. The head was been professionally rebuilt, new valves, keepers, springs, valve guides, and hardened seats on the exhaust. The head has been magnafluxed and resurfaces. No corners skimped. Head sold straight out. No core, exchange. We have alot of used cylinder heads in stock for this engine, And heads for the Open deck block as well.\u201d", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713068413, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14179707, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In terms of the person requesting additional photos of the car underneath the floor mat areas for a spot that can possibly include rust:\r\nI will try to do this tomorrow, ( I am hosting guest tomorrow, and will be very busy) if not then, I will submit pictures on Monday.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713068769, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14179793, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In terms of the engine it is a Ford Taunus V4 1.7L . The 1.7 V4 engine was also used in various industrial applications. \r\nThere is a business in South Dakota that specializes in the Ford V4 motor parts. I will attach the web-link here:\r\nhttps://fordv4parts.myshopify.com/\r\n\r\nThe owner has fully rebuilt heads for the Saab V4 engine @ the cost of $475/head. He also runs an eBay store, which many Saab V4 engine parts are for sale, including a fully rebuilt V4 engine.\r\nHere is the descriptive quote for the listing and the link for the rebuilt heads. \r\n\r\nhttps://www.ebay.com/itm/265074493622?itmmeta=01HVD8G3QC3Y8DTY9FWPCV1KP8&hash=item3db7abc8b6:g:y3wAAOSw55ZgPrMi\r\nSaab Sonett 104 CID V4 1.7 liter rebuilt cylinder head, new valves\r\n\r\n\u201cA rebuild cylinder head for the Saab / Ford V4 1.7 liter closed deck block. The head was been professionally rebuilt, new valves, keepers, springs, valve guides, and hardened seats on the exhaust. The head has been magnafluxed and resurfaces. No corners skimped. Head sold straight out. No core, exchange. We have alot of used cylinder heads in stock for this engine, And heads for the Open deck block as well.\u201d", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713073471, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14179798, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I also submitted information about a company who specializes in the parts for the Sabb's Ford V4 1.7 L engine, which have numerous engine parts for the car , including fully rebuilt heads and an engine for the car. I see now that is is being approved for approval by BaT staff, possibly because I supplied web-links for the company web-site , as well as the line to their ebay store selling rebuilt engine heads?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713073882, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14185029, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thanks for the informative comment, @SaabEnthusiast! Since your car came from Ak there\u2019s a chance it was sold by Devlin Auto(?) in Fairbanks. Mr Devlin was quite a character! Also, do you know if yours was ever serviced by the Fairbanks shop that I mentioned earlier? Saabs were a favorite car for Alaskans who wanted sportiness, practicality and traction until the AWD Subarus took over that market niche!\r\n At least I know you don\u2019t have my old Sonett as mine was turned into a fairly famous rally car by the guy I sold it to - another real character!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1713129976, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14185290, "authorName": "SaabEnthusiast", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabenthusiast/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@PDXBryan Unfortunately, I do not have much information on my Sonett Pre-2000s. I believe the car originally came from the lower 48 (I think it was Oregon). However, I do believe the Fairbanks shop serviced my Sonett a couple times. I don't know much about the history of the car. I wish I knew more about where it came from, but I don't.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1713134523, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14185533, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@SaabEnthusiast\r\nWho knows, maybe you\u2019ll find out more about your car in the course of this auction!\r\nMy Sonett was my first car and I still can\u2019t believe my Dad let me buy it. It was a beater even 44 years ago, but boy was it fun! I also believe it saved my life a few times solely because of it\u2019s handling. A lot of cars would not have been as forgiving of a young driver\u2019s mistakes!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1713139039, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14187938, "authorName": "Inspiration325", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/inspiration325/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Why were the heads removed in the first place?\u2026..??? I saw that the heads wasn't included but what about the rest for example carburettor?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713196412, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14188108, "authorName": "DSpringer", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dspringer/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I own two Saab V4's including a '73 Sonett and live in nearby Winters and would like to see the car.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1713197663, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14196680, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "To DSpringer who lives near Winters, please contact me through the contact seller button to arrange a viewing of the car.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713282029, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14196778, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The heads were removed to get rebuilt, because on of the heads had a cracked valve. The mechanic who was working on the vehicle at the time, abruptly moved to South America. When I attempted to retrieve the heads from the Auto Machine shop that the mechanic took them to be rebuilt had gone out out of business.\r\n\r\nThe carburettor is included in the sale.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713282852, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14196856, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I did confirm with the owner who specializes in Ford V4 engine parts that he has a set of two professionally rebuilt heads @ the cost of $475 each, and noted that they have a full set of head gaskets available as well.\r\n\r\nThe web-site is fordv4parts.myshopify.com", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713283382, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14199214, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713293244, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14199398, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Photos of the areas under the matts, as requested, had to retake the area under the passenger side, because it came out much darker than viewed from my phone.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713293841, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14204045, "authorName": "SaabEnthusiast", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabenthusiast/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@PDXBryan So was mine! I bought my Sonett when I was a teen and still have it! I too cannot believe my parents let me buy it. Lots of fun memories with that car!", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1713324186, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14204134, "authorName": "PDXBryan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pdxbryan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@SaabEnthusiast\r\nCan you believe that once upon a time parents would let their kids run around in a plastic shell of a car the size of a go cart, lower than a 4X4\u2019s bumper and no airbag or ABS?! They musta been trying to \u201cdecrease the surplus population\u201d! ;^)", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1713326312, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14204327, "authorName": "Ndr614", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ndr614/", "bidAmount": 3800, "content": "$3,800 bid placed by Ndr614", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713332831, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14204986, "authorName": "SaabEnthusiast", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabenthusiast/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@PDXBryan So true!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1713359417, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14211817, "authorName": "DSpringer", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dspringer/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I just got a look at the car. Really nice shape and I can vouch for the lack of rust. Body imperfections are very minor and the paint looks original. I didn't notice any pitting of the glass. Seats are very nicely reupholstered in vinyl, which makes it easier to slide into and out of. Ran my fingernail up a cylinder wall and there was no ridge and I saw no scoring. The carburetor is a stock FoMoCo with hot water automatic choke. As a current '73 Sonett owner I know that installing a Weber 36 ICH or ICT is not a problem but I do miss the automatic choke. Since it has sat for so long the hydraulics will need refreshing. With that and the heads, It should be easy to get it back on the road.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1713389204, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14212638, "authorName": "advrdr", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/advrdr/", "bidAmount": 5100, "content": "$5,100 bid placed by advrdr", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713395781, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14213522, "authorName": "SaabEnthusiast", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabenthusiast/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@DSpringer Thank you for the information. Although I will not be bidding, this information will be useful for those who are. However, I must disagree with you on the automatic choke. I have the manual choke on the Weber and I personally love it. I love being able to exactly control it, especially on colder mornings. But that's just me \ud83e\udd37\u200d\u2642\ufe0f", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1713406626, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14213972, "authorName": "Ndr614", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ndr614/", "bidAmount": 6100, "content": "$6,100 bid placed by Ndr614", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713417496, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14223479, "authorName": "Alfabruh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/alfabruh/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This thing is so ready to be a hot rod!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713524196, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14223595, "authorName": "kgfaison", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kgfaison/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "These are such fun cars & cheap and easy to work on. Not fast but light and agile and zero complexity plus mid 30's mpg. Ive got a near perfect 74 and a couple of sonett 2 V4's. One day Ill sell off my porsche with its pointless electronic gizmos but never the sonetts. Floor and rocker rust is the main issue on these. But looking at the photos it is obvious to me that this one is in great shape. It will be a lucky buyer who winds up with this one!", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1713527643, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14223907, "authorName": "Myoldcut", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/myoldcut/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Fast is a relative term. It all depends on what you\u2019re driving at the moment.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713532700, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14224215, "authorName": "Revrider", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/revrider/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had that German Ford V4 running a high pressure pump in a trailer mounted power washing rig that we used to wash trucks on the lots as a teenager. It was very reliable. if I bought this car I would probably look into a V8 swap. Doubt an LS would fit but the Buick/Rover aluminum V8 could probably be shoehorned in there. At this price it is a tempting project.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713536609, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14224222, "authorName": "Kauaiswede (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kauaiswede/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "DSpringer,thanks for your words about the car. It was great to see your 73 Sonett driving up to my house. It was the first running Sonett I had seen in decades, and the first time ever in blue.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1713536656, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14224409, "authorName": "Mapat59", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mapat59/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I love this car, but when was the last time you saw a Saab, any Saab in the wild?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713538426, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14224422, "authorName": "JIMMY", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimmy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Mapat59 - You need to get out more! I see a bunch of them every day.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1713538565, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14225069, "authorName": "Mapat59", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mapat59/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@JIMMY I'm sure that is true in your area, but I live thousands of miles from Stockholm and they are a pretty rare commodity here! lol", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713543223, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14225139, "authorName": "Go6saab", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/go6saab/", "bidAmount": 7000, "content": "$7,000 bid placed by Go6saab", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713543672, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14226246, "authorName": "Myoldcut", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/myoldcut/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Revrider. The weight over the front would kill the handling, and good luck with that shoehorn.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713548279, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14226512, "authorName": "Kramj", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kramj/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I bought one off here a while back. Love the little guy. Loads of fun and a head turner.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713549114, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14226684, "authorName": "Blizzard340", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/blizzard340/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Looks dry. Have the freewheel welded closed when the engine is out . Fun cars. I had a yellow '74 with several mods for autocrossing. Amazing how well a front wheel drive car can handle if it's set up properly.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713549605, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14226966, "authorName": "uwacker", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/uwacker/", "bidAmount": 7400, "content": "$7,400 bid placed by uwacker", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713550530, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 14226988, "authorName": "SaabEnthusiast", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabenthusiast/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Blizzard340 I've never understood why people always feel its necessary to lock out the freewheel. I understand that not engaging the freewheel is significantly better on the transmission, but does locking it out really put less stress on the transmission then simply disengaging the freewheel does? I plan to roadtrip my Sonett at some point and the freewheel being engaged will do wonders for my gas tank on our flat and wide American roads. \r\n\r\nOn a side note: I just took my Sonett out around the block and took a 10-15 mph turn at probably 25-30 mph. It's staggering how well these FWD cars handle. They are truly wonderful to drive. Some say the V4 doesn't offer enough power, but I think it's just right.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1713550638, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14226999, "authorName": "uwacker", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/uwacker/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sold on 4/19/24 for $7,400 to uwacker", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713550680, "type": "bat-bid-reserve"}, {"id": 14227028, "authorName": "SaabEnthusiast", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabenthusiast/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Wow! Great buy @uwacker ! You will definitely enjoy it. This car is beautiful inside and out. Once you get it running, it will be a blast to drive.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713550754, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14227038, "authorName": "Revrider", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/revrider/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Myoldcut the aluminum V8 weighs around 400 pounds. How much does this iron V4 weigh?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713550795, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14227069, "authorName": "SaabEnthusiast", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabenthusiast/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Revrider the entire car weighs about 1700 pounds. The V8 would be weigh too heavy. And even if you did manage to fit it in there underneath the nose and get it to drive without crapping itself, you wouldn't be able to take a turn over 5 mph without serious understeer.\n\nEdit: I'm not sure about the weight of the motor itself.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713550969, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14227099, "authorName": "SaabEnthusiast", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saabenthusiast/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Revrider These cars are cool and quirky because of the way they were built and the motor that was given to them. That unique sound, smell and experience can't be replicated from something else (other than maybe a Saab 2-stroke, but that's an entirely different experience). I wouldn't ruin it.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1713551061, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14227347, "authorName": "uwacker", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/uwacker/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thanks for the gratulations! The Sonett will make its way back home to Europe. This cars have rust issues - imagine how many in Germany. So this is a very rare condition for Germany. Shipping is easy.\r\nA Saab 96 Limousine was my first car back in 1980 and I had Saabs since. So it is time for a Sonett now. I love driving with the freewheel! You have to be careful the throttle when the freewhee reconnects the engine to the gears, then it is reliable. Hope to get it run until summer (okay, next year) in order to show it Sweden!", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1713551816, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14227830, "authorName": "Myoldcut", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/myoldcut/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@SaabEnthusiast not to mention the weight of the differential, transmission, and driveshaft. Im willing to bet that most of those wanting to \u201cupgrade\u201d to a v-8 have never actually driven the cars in question. Congratulations to the winner! Great piece of automotive history!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713553270, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 14228372, "authorName": "ein460", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ein460/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "My understanding is that the Sonett was only available for the American market.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1713555186, "type": "comment"}]