1973 Saab

97 Coupe

4 - Cyl.

Manual

Clear

Gasoline

You are bidding on 1973 SAAB Sonett III or SAAB 9-7. The 1970 redesign of the Sonett V4, named the Sonett III, was initially undertaken by Sergio Coggiola, but Gunnar A. Sjögren altered it to fit the existing chassis without expensive manufacturing-line changes. Hinged rear-window glass replaced the Sonett II/V4 rear compartment hatch door. With the mandate for a "bulge-less" hood, the engine compartment opening evolved into a small front popup panel, resulting in more limited access than in the Sonett V4. Extensive engine work required the removal of the entire front hood section. To help adapt the car to U.S. market tastes, the Sonett III featured a floor-mounted shifter (instead of the Sonett V4 column-mounted shifter) and optional dealer-installed air conditioning. Like the Opel GT, the Sonett III's hidden headlamps were operated manually using a lever. US safety regulations required new bumpers after 1972, significantly detracting from its Italian-inspired design. While the 1970 and 1971 model years initially had the same 1500 cc Ford V4 engine as the Sonett V4, emission control requirements reduced the available horsepower. The 1972 to 1974 versions of the Sonett III used the 1700 cc Ford V4, but to meet increasingly strict Federal regulations, net power output remained the same as the 1500 cc engine, at 55 horsepower (41 kW). Still, the Sonett III accelerated from 0–100 km/h (0–63 mph) in 13 seconds, and—due to a higher differential gear ratio (42 teeth on the ring gear and 9 teeth on the pinion gear) than the standard 95/96 transmission (39:8)—achieved a top speed of 165 km/h (103 mph), aided by a low 0.31 drag coefficient. Disappointing sales, especially during the 1973 oil crisis, lead Saab to end production in 1974. A total of 8,368 Sonett IIIs were manufactured between 1970 and 1974. This is an original California car, with a Ford Taunus V-4 engine ( 58,050 miles) with 65 HP and manual 4 speed transmission. No starting problems, no transmission shifting, grinding or whynning problems. Used as a commuter third car 2 to 3 times weekly. FoMoCo carburetor and non electric ignition. No engine compartment or chassis oil leaks. Free wheel disconnected. Fiber glass body is intact without cracks or signs of previous accidents. Correct SAAB "burnt orange color" not original but very good paint job with some minor superficial scratches around the door locks. Absolutely no rust in the fender, wheel wells, floors but only a minor dime size area in the trunk area. Original soccer ball wheels with correct and new ( front ones) 165 SR 15 Michelin XYX tires ( replaced 6 months ago and bought at Coker Tires) plus spare tire. Original jack and crank in bag. SAAB Tool bag containing original factory spark plug wrench, pliers, screwdriver. All instrument cluster indicator lights work, updated with Led bulbs. Temperature gauge, tank fuel indicator, charge indicator, oil pressure, brake warning light, direction ( turn signal) and high beam warning light all work correctly). Heater and ventilator switches, windshield wiper control work. Headlight control and parking lights work. Black leather steering wheel in pristine condition and horn working properly. Dash in perfect condition. Original SAAB AM/FM radio with 4 Pioneer speakers converted by (Tayman's Electronics in Sarasota, FL) with an output of 200 watts, also connected via cable to an Apple Ipod, connections for a satellite radio or electric antenna. Glove box with period correct decal bought in Sweden. Interior is in excellent condition with original vinyl fabric ( doors, trunk area and seats with new similar to factory looking tan color corduroy centers, seat belts are in good condition. Floor carpet original and very clean condition. Glass all around without cracks or scratches. Rear ventilator open and close properly, All doors, tail gate and hood seals work properly, hood and tail glass levers work. Three sets of spare keys. Original chrome and black gas cap, extra steering wheel. Very fun to drive, turn heads and attract attention everywhere, a real crowd pleaser and great gas station conversation starter... Getting increasingly rare due rust problems especially east coast USA. A fun way to become a Vintage SAAB enthusiast and be part of possibly the most loyal car community in the world, the SAAB family. I have all records of service and upgrades done from my ownership for the last 18 months, Mobil 1 synthetic oil and filter changed every 6 months. Absolutely no problems during this period. Only Ethanol free 90 Octane gas plus additive used all the time. SAAB club of Tampa Bay member and overall 2 nd place " Fun in the sun show" winner in Clearwater, Florida ( Spring 2011).Come and drive it in the highway speeds with no worries. This is not a garage but a daily driver. Let me prove it to you! This car is a 38 years old car so it is selling "as is condition". No warranties or promises expressed or implied, Please read the description before bidding. If you have any questions just email me or call me at 813-469-8717. I reserve the right to end the auction early if the car sells locally. Personal inspections welcome but no tire kickers, joy drivers or dreamers. Anybody new to Ebay, no + feedback or significant negative feedback has to contact me. If you are not serious, do not bid. Come and see the car, no excuses! Getting increasingly rare. Check other similar examples recently sold by Mecum auctions in Kissimmee, FL earlier this year or in a local Sarasota classic car dealer, remember to compare apples to apples but no rust buckets or ridiculously modified Sonett III... No games, no changing selling prices games in order to pay less taxes in your state. I am not going to disclose the reserve price, and yes I am negotiable.. Shipping and handling is the buyer responsability. Only Paypal will be accepted, once you payment clears you will be given a signed bill of sale and car title. For videos: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhVzmytRpUY http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5N1TvCQoKZ0 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9v_Aa2Nyz-U