The Saab 96 is a classic compact car produced by Swedish automaker Saab Automobile from 1960 to 1980. It became famous for its durability, aerodynamic design, excellent performance on snow and gravel, and numerous victories in international rally competition.

Basic Information

• Model: Saab 96
  
• Manufacturer: Saab Automobile
  
• Production: 1960–1980
  
• Class: Compact Car
  
• Body Style: 2-door sedan
  
• Layout: Front-engine, Front-wheel drive (FWD)
  
• Assembly: Trollhättan, Sweden
  

Engine Options

Early Models (1960–1966)

• Engine: 841 cc / 850 cc 3-cylinder, two-stroke
  
• Power: Approximately 38–42 hp

Saab 96 V4 (1967–1980)

• Engine: 1.5-liter Ford Taunus V4
  
• Displacement: 1,498 cc
  
• Power: Approximately 65 hp
• Torque: Around 118 Nm

The V4 engine greatly improved performance, reliability, and drivability.

Transmission

• Gearbox: 4-speed manual
  
• Drive: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
  
• Freewheel system: Allowed the car to coast without engine braking, originally designed to protect the two-stroke engine.
  

Dimensions

• Length: 4,170 mm
  
• Width: 1,570 mm
  
• Height: 1,470 mm
  
• Wheelbase: 2,490 mm
  
• Weight: Approximately 900–960 kg

Performance (V4)

• Top Speed: Approximately 145 km/h (90 mph)
• 0–100 km/h: Around 16–17 seconds
• Fuel Economy: Approximately 8–9 L/100 km

Features

• 
  Aerodynamic teardrop-shaped body
  
• 
  Spacious cabin for its size
  
• 
  Excellent visibility
  
• 
  Strong heater designed for Scandinavian winters
  
• 
  Reliable front-wheel-drive traction
  
• 
  Durable suspension for rough roads
  

Rally Success

The Saab 96 became one of the most successful rally cars of the 1960s.

Major achievements include:

• 
  ? RAC Rally winner
  
• 
  ? Monte Carlo Rally winner (1962 and 1963)
  
• 
  ? Numerous victories in snow and gravel rallies across Europe
  

The legendary Swedish rally driver Erik Carlsson earned the nickname "Carlsson on the Roof" after spectacular driving performances in the Saab 96.