By Antti Kautonen
It really stands out amidst all the snow, doesn’t it? This 1975 Saab 99 GL has been sitting on a sidestreet in Jakobstad for quite some time, next to an old warehouse and a garage that might or might not be active. It’s accompanied by a ’90s Corolla and an Escort Van along with a couple of other old Saabs, and it’s surprisingly straight for a car that’s accumulating mildew not going anywhere. Of course, the underbody and the door bottoms might be an another story altogether.
By the way, my understanding is that all three Saabs here are Finnish-built. In the crossroads nearby, a sign still proclaims proudly “SAAB AND HORIZON SERVICE”. One of the finest hours of Finnish automotive assembly history right there.
The front lip of the Saab displays some crumbling, flaky metal, but otherwise I didn’t see any bubbling on the faded paint. You mostly see newer model 99:s, and a straight mid-1970s 99 is a rare sight these days.
I’m sure the paint would respond well to a good buffing, after a thorough cleaning.
I absolutely adore the shape, even if there’s unquestionably something duck-like about the car. The interior appeared complete and unripped, too. And this might be the first car I’ve seen with wheelarch trim that actually improves the look.
Of course, it might be someone’s current or future project car. “I’ll get around to it one of these days, I promise!”
Behind the 99 was a very green 96. It didn’t look hopeless, either – or then the snow disguised body maladies.
The hubcaps and trim pieces were just as neat. The green colour reminds me of some Soviet cars.
Next to the 96, a newer blue 99 from 1982. The cosmetic parts on it were also complete, but the blinkers appeared surprisingly faded – or modified.
Plates thoughtfully obscured by Mother Nature.
And yet, no rust anywhere to be seen despite the appearance. If I had the means to get these and the place to store them, I’d do it.
At least the 99:s. The ducktail just gets to me.
[Images: 2013 Hooniverse/Antti Kautonen]
I'm going to need to see more of this 3-door Corolla, please.
I'm kind of intriged by the electric plug hanging out the grill, is this a plug in electric Saab 99?
If you are joking, I apologize for what follows.
In very cold climates, most people equip their cars with engine block heaters. They keep the oil from turning into wax and helps ensure your vehicle will start on mornings below -25C. Most outdoor public parking lots where I live have an electrical outlet for each space so you can plug your car in while you shop or whatever.
25 years of Brazil let you forget that temperatures can get that low outside a fridge. 😉
I suspected you may have forgotten! It would only take me a year or so if I moved to Brazil! But I guess even your homeland wouldn't have needed block heaters.
Yes -25C is very rare in the Netherlands, although I've seen it go down to -28C when I used to live overthere.
Can't say I'll miss these extreme low temperatures, but can confirm that it's far easier to accustome to warm weather.
Dear owner of these cars,
PUT THE CARS INSIDE!
Thanks,
Wiremaster
SAABs thrive in an outdoor setting. Trust me.
<img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6029/6098032932_9c1bcaef35.jpg" width="450">
I should take photos of my family's 900 graveyard sometime. . .
yes you should. Soon.
Somehow, I can like, respect and admire Saabs..but just can't see anything of worth or interest in a Volvo. Hmmm….
Better review your interests (not that Saab is wrong though)
<img src="http://bringatrailer.com/wp-content/plugins/PostviaEmail/images/1971_Volvo_142S_Street_or_Track_Car_For_Sale_Rear_resize.jpg" width="500">
<img src="http://flipacars.com/pics/Volvo/volvo-122-amazon-wagon-02.jpg" width="500">
<img src="http://volvo1800pictures.com/0_car_photos/S/1966/80/Volvo_1800S_66_80_2590_12.JPG" width="500">
<img src="http://www.vca2010.fr/2010/img/cars/p1900_gv.jpg" width="500">
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5022/5653018406_6e065fb5bf.jpg" width="500">
<img src="http://www.autoartcollection.co.uk/images/79506a2.jpg" width="500">
I feel the exact opposite.
Nice find. Growing up I always thought the 99 was horribly ugly. I've mellowed on that since and while not a classic beauty they do have their appeal.
Hoons, I have a terrible confession.
There was a 1979 Saab 99T locally for sale for only $2500 recently. Garaged for 13 years. Complete and rust free.
I couldn't manage to beg/borrow/steal the extra $1300 I needed in time before it was gone.
I'm sorry.
Ahhhh I want one!