Saab Sonett classic cars for sale

History of the Saab Sonett

Saab first showcased the Sonett in 1955 at the Stockholm Motor Show, marking its entry into the world of sports cars with a lightweight aluminium-chassis roadster. Only six Sonett I units were made, each designed with aircraft-inspired principles for low weight and high speed. After a hiatus, Saab revived the Sonett name in 1966 with the Sonett II, focusing on a market niche for export, especially to the USA. Engine technology and body designs evolved through three main generations until 1974, when stricter emissions regulations and changing market demands halted production. The Sonett was an outlier among Saab’s more practical models, serving as proof of Saab’s technical ingenuity and racing-inspired aspirations.

Model History

The Sonett I (1955–1957) pioneered Saab’s sports car ambitions, powered by a 748 cm³ three-cylinder two-stroke engine derived from the Saab 93. Despite its advanced engineering, only six chassis rolled off the line due to rule changes in motorsport. The Sonett II (1966–1969) picked up the torch with two-stroke and later Ford V4 engines—the latter a response to US market emissions requirements. The Sonett III (1970–1974) introduced a more contemporary coupé shape, designed by Sergio Coggiola and modified by Gunnar A. Sjögren, with nearly 7,000 units built. Over the production span, the Sonett series shared mechanicals with Saab’s volume models like the 93, 95, and 96, but always offered a more spirited and focused driving experience. Successors in the Saab lineup did not carry the sports coupé mission forward after 1974.

Highlights of the Saab Sonett

One of the Sonett’s major hallmarks is its advanced aerodynamics — the Sonett III achieved a drag coefficient of 0.31, remarkable for the era. Especially notable is the lightweight construction: the Sonett III’s semi-monocoque uses a combination of fibreglass and steel, keeping weight to around 800 kg. Features like the flip-up headlamps, floor-shift gearbox tailored for American tastes, the cleverly hinged rear window for boot access, and self-healing bumpers (from 1973) make the Sonett a distinctive technical and design statement. Sports seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a focused cockpit underline the driving experience.

From a market perspective, the Sonett stands alone in Classic Trader’s Saab listings, accounting for 100% of both supply and demand for Saab classic sports models — confirming its appeal among aficionados seeking something truly different from the marque.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

While no factory limited editions exist, the earliest Sonett I models (only six built) are exceptionally rare, with unique right-hand-drive configurations and a design wholly distinct from later series. The Sonett II V4 (1968–69) is also notable, combining the original body shape with a Ford V4 engine as a direct response to American market demands.

Engine, Transmission and Handling

The Sonett series is defined by its lightness and agility. Later models use the Ford-sourced V4, longitudinally mounted and water-cooled. The Sonett III reaches up to 165–169 km/h, with a 0–100 km/h time of 13 seconds. Steering is direct and precise, but low-speed manoeuvring can be heavy. The clutch can feel 'rubbery', but shifting is accurate. The chassis, shared largely with the Saab 96, is tuned for a sporty, taut ride without sacrificing day-to-day comfort. US models offered optional air conditioning, and the floor-shift gearbox in the III was developed to match American market preferences. - Saab Sonett I (1955–1957): Only six produced, aviation-inspired design, two-stroke three-cylinder, top speed 160–190 km/h.

• Saab Sonett II V4 (1968–1969): Two-stroke replaced with 1,500 cc Ford V4, modified front end for US markets.
• Saab Sonett III (1970–1974): New coupé body by Coggiola/Sjögren, 1.5 and later 1.7-litre V4 engines, advanced aerodynamics, practical interior, about 7,000 built.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Sonett III was the work of Sergio Coggiola, later refined by Gunnar A. Sjögren. The exterior is defined by its wedge-esque coupé shape, manual pop-up headlights (with rare electric conversion options), prominent matt-black front panel for engine access, and a rear glass hatch for easy boot loading. The semi-monocoque combines fibreglass and steel for strength and weight saving. The interior features sports seats with high headrests, a three-spoke steering wheel, and tactile, textured dashboard materials. Unique options included air conditioning (uncommon for European sports cars of the era). Self-healing bumpers arrived in 1973. Factory colours and trim can vary, with some for US exports finished to meet local tastes. Standard features like hazard lights and seat belts were advanced for their time.

Other Features and Facts

The Sonett series was almost exclusively targeted for the US market; most production was exported. Nearly all technical underpinnings, except for bodywork and some details, trace their roots to the Saab 96. US safety and emissions regulation changes directly affected engine choices and ultimately ended the model line in 1974.

Summary

The Saab Sonett’s brief but dynamic production run yielded some of the most distinctive sports cars ever offered by a Swedish manufacturer, with uncommon shapes, lightweight engineering, and solutions — like the rear glass hatch and manual pop-up headlights — rarely found outside Italian or British competitors. Their rarity, export focus, and connection to Saab’s technical heritage make each Sonett a distinct presence in any classic car collection.