Description
SAAB 96 MONTE CARLO 850 of 1966 1000 EXEMPLAIRES PRODUCTS CHASSIS : 337359 Very rare SAAB 96 in its Monte Carlo version still on the road in very good condition. This sporty version of the 96 is named after the famous driver Carlsson's victories in the Monte Carlo Rallies in the early 1960s.
It features special equipment such as a headrest on the passenger seat alone and a space for helmets hidden under the rear seat. It is also more powerful than the normal version, with 55bhp. Its special feature is an engine fed by three Solex carburettors. A two-stroke with an automatic lubrication system and disc brakes at the front. No more than 1, 000 of these were made. This one actually belonged to an amateur rally driver who had bought it himself from the President of the Saab Club Germany. It was there that it underwent a complete restoration some 15 years ago.
The car was stripped bare and a large number of mechanical parts were changed. An extensive photo file allows us to follow the various stages of the restoration: from priming to full paintwork, including the complete dismantling of the engine. The current owner continues to maintain the car as it should be.
The following items have recently been changed: - clutch transmitter/ receiver + release bearing and disc - fuel pump (changed for a higher performance model) - addition of an electronic ignition - radiator - brake hoses. The car is in good condition but not in competition, the restoration being 15 years old and the previous owner having driven it regularly.
There are a few minor bodyshell defects and the interior could do with a little detailing to bring it back to its former glory. It is true to the original with its Toreador Red colour and the unique two-tone Monte Carlo red/ grey interior. The road test was fairly conclusive with, it should be noted, the option of an overrunning clutch. The car starts from a standing start, shifts smoothly and without a hitch, and the instrumentation is functional. This car was even the subject of a feature in the specialist press, and is said to be one of the most beautifully restored.
A unique design, aerodynamics from another era, and an engine with a Nordic flavour: this is a special and rare car which, as well as being unusual, is a real toy for any rally enthusiast! Valid technical inspection on 25/ 02/ 2024 Photo file of the restoration Factory leaving certificate Magazine report Normal registration document
