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]
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