27 May 2019

More than an old car #103: Saab 96



Having featured the well-known Saab 900 previously, I hope that it has educated you on this car brand that seems to be stuck between being popular and obscure. However, surprises do keep coming, such as this 1967 Saab 96, which is possibly the oldest Saab car in Singapore!

The Saab 96 (internally known as Project 93C) was first introduced in 1960, as a replacement for the 93 and was the 3rd production car by Saab. It featured greater storage space and a larger rear window for better visibility. Some time in 1965, it underwent a facelift that featured a more intricate front end and a longer engine bay, in anticipation for a larger engine. A major facelift also happened in 1974, where the headlights became rectangular and the chrome bow was replaced with black plastic. 

It was praised for its unique aerodynamic shape, giving little wind noise at high speeds and the adjustable back seats, allowing one to load more goods if necessary. The Saab 96 proved popular due to its durability and ease of maintenance, and was suitably equipped for the Nordic conditions such as heating mechanisms, large tyres and abundant ground clearance.

An unusual feature was the 'freewheel', where the transmission could run faster than the engine, providing an advantageous fuel consumption when going downhill for instance. As such, it proved popular at rally events, experiencing success throughout the 60s. It was equipped with a 841 cc Saab i3 engine, allowing it to reach a top speed of 127 km/h with an acceleration of 24.1 seconds [0-60 mph]. It was 4170 mm long and weighed 873 kg.

Production of the Saab 96 ended in 1980 with 547,221 units made. Currently, this is 1 of 2 units that are left in Singapore, where the other unit is a facelifted version with the rectangular lights. It was first introduced here in 1961 by Malayan Motors, where it had a retail price of $6,950 [approximately $30,000 in today's money]. I am inclined to think that few people would know what this odd-looking machine is, given how Saab is dying out here. It is also surprising that the owner has kept it it good condition, even sporting its original plate number! This unit seems to be driven once in a while and if you're lucky, you can perhaps see it on the road!




1 comment:

  1. Trekking in Nepal is delighted to welcome you tiny but amazing country. Natures to renew one’s own self regard to relive of beauty realize of Nepal Tour to interact with its generous friendly peoples are highlights of Nepal Trekking and is one long term activity that draws repeat visitors with Treks Himalaya trekking company offer wide verities of travel package in Nepal such as trekking, helicopter tour, mountain flight, peak climbing, sightseeing tour, Tibet tour, Bhutan tour and many more. Final purpose for trekking offers numerous options walking excursion to meet snowy peaks, their foot hills, valleys but however there is amazing for each who hope Trek in Nepal and mountain area. Typical trekking and Hiking in Nepal as unique combination of natural glory of Annapurna Trekking and spectacular view of Langtang Trekking is most rewarding way to skill Nepal natural spectacular view of Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek and array is to walking, trekking, width and the height of country for Nepal Tours Trek is important of Himalayas on description Nepal Travel of large range of ecological features for Nepal Holiday. The country nurtures a variety of flora and scenery. Addition to natural atmosphere is rich Himalayan culture. Many of visitor trek to different part of Nepal every year to experience its rustic charm, nature and culture. Most treks through areas between 1000 to 5185m, though some popular parts reach over 5648 meters. Every travelers knows for trekking from all over the words an exciting experience in Nepal. #trekkinginnepal #nepaltrekking #trekinnepal #nepaltour #nepaltravel #Holiday #Nepal #Hiking #Trekking #Tour #Travel #tourinnepal #travelinnepal #hikinginnepal #Himalaya #TreksHimalaya #nepaltrek #nepaltreks ##nepaltrekstrek

    ReplyDelete