Description
7th Dec, 2024 10:00
The December 2024 Auction
1984 Saab 99 GL
No Reserve - Strong example with a number of desirable extras
Buyer's premium: 15. 00%
Lot details
Registration: A93 LVR
Chassis: YS3BL25C6E6011211
Odometer: 139, 000
Transmission: Manual
MOT: October 2025
Believed to be one of seventy examples of this model on the road
In original specification
Desirable Ronal “Minilite” alloys
OEM sunroof and heated front seats
5-speed manual
Lovely condition
The Saab 99, introduced in 1968, marked a pivotal point in the history of Swedish automaker Saab, helping establish the brand’s reputation for innovation and durability. Designed under the direction of Saab’s chief designer Sixten Sason, the 99 was built with a focus on safety, aerodynamics, and durability in harsh weather conditions, reflecting Saab’s roots in aircraft manufacturing. Its robust construction included a pioneering use of a wraparound windshield and headlamp washers, both of which were designed to improve visibility in adverse conditions. Early models were powered by a Triumph-sourced 1. 7-litre engine, but Saab later developed its own in-house powerplants, including a 2. 0-litre and, eventually, a turbocharged version, making the Saab 99 Turbo one of the first mass-market turbocharged cars by 1978. The turbo variant was a game-changer, solidifying Saab’s reputation for high-performance engineering. The 99’s design and engineering innovations laid the foundation for future models like the Saab 900, ensuring its place as an influential model in automotive history.
We are delighted to offer this 1984 Saab 99 GL in white with blue velour interior. First registered in June 1984 and supplied by Woolford Motor Company of Bury, this car was delivered in the final year of 99 production, before it was replaced with the 90 in September 1984. It has a few choice extras that would have been available from the Saab options list - rubber rear boot spoiler, glass sunroof and Ronal-manufactured “Minilite” wheels. It has a huge service history with 10 entries on the service card, taking things up to 1995, and then a huge sheaf of invoices from Bay Horse Garage up until March 2003. We have an old MOT from June 2003 but the vendor believes it was then stored until sometime around 2019 when the MOTs commence again. That would explain its lovely condition and the current mileage of 139, 000 miles which is pretty moderate for a Saab of this era.
In two-door form, the 99 is arguably the prettiest of the Saab models being extremely well proportioned and compact by today’s standards. The white paint contrasts nicely with the black trim that had replaced chrome late in the 99’s run. If the outside is nice, the interior is even better. Not only are the seats clean and free from any obvious rips or tears but the velour remains thick and soft. They are even marked as being factory heated. The dash looks to be original and is free from cracks or obvious damage. The headlining on Saab 99s and 900s is a known weak link but this looks to have been replaced recently. The boot is clean and the space-saver spare wheel is present and correct.
The car comes with V5C, current and some previous MOTs, a bundle of invoices for parts and maintenance, service card and handbook.
Whilst the Saab 900 remains a regular sight on UK roads, the 99 is far rarer with howmanyleft. co. uk recording only 70 GLs on the road. However, this is an extremely useable classic being able to keep up with modern traffic and having plenty of room for passengers and luggage. The huge affection for Saab means there is very enthusiastic owners club and this 99 would be welcomed at any car meet or show.
