1966 Saab 96

Highlights

• Later Saab 96 fitted with the capable V4 engine
• Imported from South Africa in 2025
• Benefits from new battery and brake overhaul
• MOT/road tax exempt

The Appeal

The Saab 96 confirmed the Swedish brand’s position as a manufacturer that very much forged its own path. Originally fitted with Saab’s well-known two-stroke engines, the 96 featured a distinctive and aerodynamic body. It was popular enough to stay in production for two decades, living on even after its successor had been introduced.
This 96 was bought from a private collection in South Africa in October 2025, and then imported into and registered in the UK. It is a 'flat nose' car whose original three-cylinder, two-stroke engine has been replaced with the more reliable and easy-to-drive four-stroke Ford V4 that later 96 models featured. When the car arrived in the UK it received a new battery and correct wiper arms, and the brakes and key engine components were overhauled.
The car has been stored inside under a full weather and dust proof cover, and has been started and run regularly.
The car’s paintwork is shiny and lustrous, and there is no underlying rust evident. Closer inspection reveals some scratches and marks, and the paint is lifting in places due to an earlier respray. An inspection following importation confirmed the underside of the car to be in good order.
The interior is a striking combination of red and cream and presents very well, including the headlining and carpets. The seats are adjusted by unbolting and rebolting in place. The fuel gauge and a few minor items do not work.
The engine and engine bay are very clean, and the seller states that the car runs very nicely and will move along at 50 mph very comfortably. They note that they leave plenty of room for braking, due to the efficacy of the car’s drum brakes.
The seller comments, “This is a very striking vehicle that gets attention wherever it goes. It can be used just as it is, though someone could readily take it to the next level if they desired.” Few cars offer as much charm and usability.

Key Information

• Mileage: 65,854 miles (indicated)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT exempt
• Technical specs: 1,498cc 65hp V4 petrol, 4-speed manual
• Paperwork: V5C, two most recent work invoices

The Detail

• Imported to and registered in the UK in 2025
• Fitted with 1.5-litre V4 engine
• New battery, bonnet cable kit and correct short arm wiper arms with splined fittings and new wiper blades fitted in early 2026
• Full brake rebuild in April 2026
• New indicator relay, fuel filter and adjustment of ignition timings in April 2026
• Seller states that car would benefit from new plywood boot floor (missing on importation of car)
• Front seats are in fixed positions, so must be unbolted, moved and bolted in place if a driving position adjustment is required
• Fuel gauge works intermittently
• Clock not working
• Horn not working
• MOT exempt

Most recent work:
04/26 – £772.10 – Classic & Modern Automotive Engineering Ltd (Invoice #897)

• Stripping and cleaning of brakes and replacement of brake hoses and pipes, installation of seat rails, adjustment of ignition timing and idling

02/26 – £441.33 – PB Motors Oxford Limited (Invoice #SI-11981)

• New battery, bonnet cable repair

BEFORE YOU BUY

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✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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