Running 1972 Saab Sonett
Saab is known for its quirky and unique aviation-inspired designs. The Sonett was the brand’s divergence into the sports car realm. The car is far more compact than other Saab models, has sharper angles, and has a front-mid-engine. This Sonett III graduated from the previous iteration’s two-stroke engine to meet the increasingly strict emissions regulations of the ’70s. A total of 8,368 third-generation Sonetts were produced, making this running example fairly rare. This Saab Sonett was listed on Facebook on November, 20th in Everett, Washington for $4,500.
This Sonett is finished in a very ’70s orange that appears to be in good condition. The seller notes the headlights don’t work and the car could use new tires. The Saab wears factory Sonett wheels which are extremely unique, not unsurprising considering Saab’s reputation for embracing oddity.
The interior is finished in tan leather with cloth-centered bucket-style seats. The seats need to be reupholstered or potentially replaced altogether depending on how deep the damage is.
The floor pans appear to be fairly damaged as well. The steering wheel and dash appear to be in fair condition. Like other Saab models, these Sonetts are still fairly affordable but are beginning to increase in value. With a proper restoration, this car has the potential to be a great investment.
The seller didn’t include any engine photos but noted that the car runs and drives well and just got a new master cylinder. The Sonett also has an electronic ignition and also received new spark plugs, an oil change, and wires. With a little cosmetic love and basic maintenance, this car could be a beautiful restoration project. Clean Sonetts are a rare sight on the road and should the next owner decide to spruce this example up, it will certainly be a head-turner. If you’re interested in being this car’s newest caretaker contact the seller on Facebook.
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Comments
Garbage.
I hope that the new owner completes a stunning restoration of this vehicle.
There was a local junkyard going out of business and it had a Saab Sonnett. A buddy wanted it. I don’t know if he paid for it first or not. But when he went to get it it had been crushed. I rather like the earlier edition.
Beware, the body is fiberglass, the chassis is made from 3mm sheet steel. Floor corrosion could mean a fair bit of work to make this right. Then again, I could use a challenge…
A college buddy got a new one of these in 1971. I had just sold my 1275 MG Midget . By comparison, the Saab was noticeably slower ( ! ) I think I remember that the tiny V4 engine was in front of the front axle, but I could be wrong ? anyone ?
Yup, same powertrain as the Saab 96, so the engine hangs out longitudinally in front of the FWD transmission, tho’ being a V4 it doesn’t hang out very far.
Yes. Not to contradict the good Sara but front-mid-engine it is not.
More like a front-front-engine😁
I looks like it was designed by a committee from Citroen!
I always loved the Sonnets (Logic doesn’t always apply). I seviced a few of these . To do much in the engine compartment, it’s easier to take the nose off. With that much rust in the floor pan, buyers should pay particular attention to the rear suspension mounts.
Only a mother could love it.
Soccer ball wheels.