Basic Information and History

The iconic 1961 SAAB 96 de Luxe holds a special place in the hearts of Swedish car enthusiasts. Known for its robust engineering and elegant design, this is a true classic that represents a key era in Sweden's automotive history. For collectors and enthusiasts looking for a genuine, characterful Swedish vehicle, this example is an excellent choice – few cars are this era-defining with such well-documented provenance.

This particular SAAB 96 de Luxe has only covered 22,302 km (13,860 miles) since new, and the mileage is fully documented. Originally sold in Sweden, the car comes with service records from its very first service in 1961 (at 1,230 km) all the way to 2011 (at 19,970 km). The current owner has had the vehicle since 2012 and has driven it only 1,420 km.

The car features tasteful additions that pay homage to its rally heritage, including additional Marchal Fantastic driving lights and a sports steering wheel, installed by a previous rally-inspired owner, Kjell Andersson. A true enthusiast’s vehicle with uniquely preserved originality!

Equipment and Features

1. Period-correct Marchal Fantastic driving lights in mint condition
2. Sports steering wheel
3. Tachometer (rally-inspired)

In addition to the original factory equipment, this car has been enhanced with some stylish and desirable upgrades: pristine Marchal Fantastic driving lights and a sporty steering wheel with tachometer, installed by a previous rally-inspired owner. The modifications are discreet yet elevate both the feel and authenticity – highly sought after by collectors.

Condition

Body and Exterior:

The car has undergone a full restoration, and the paintwork is in excellent condition with no noted flaws. Some trim pieces on the fenders show minor damage (cause unknown), but otherwise, the chrome, light lenses, and badges are in good original condition. All glass is intact and clear.

Interior:

The original upholstery is in excellent condition, and the interior overall is very well preserved. The headliner is in good shape. The sports steering wheel, controls, and buttons are in great condition and correct for the period.

Tires and Wheels:

The tires are in good condition, well suited for the car’s low mileage and careful use.

Mechanics and Function:

The engine runs very well, and the car has only covered 22,302 km. Brakes, gearbox, and drivetrain are all in good condition. As the car is over 64 years old, it is now exempt from periodic inspection. All critical systems have been regularly checked and maintained.

Service History

The service history of this vehicle is unusually well documented, starting from the first service on March 25, 1961 (at 1,230 km). Records and receipts for maintenance continue up to July 19, 2011 (at 19,970 km). The current owner acquired the car on May 10, 2012 (at 20,880 km) and has driven just 1,420 km since.

The service book is filled out according to the manufacturer’s intervals. Under the current ownership, routine maintenance has been performed. The rear muffler was replaced in 2018, and an original SU fuel pump was installed in the autumn of 2022. A new VARTA battery was installed in 2025. The last inspection with a passing result was in 2017 at 21,770 km. The car is now exempt from inspection. All documentation and historical records are included.

Summary

This is a Swedish-delivered and exceptionally well-preserved SAAB 96 de Luxe with documented low mileage, correct rally-style details, and comprehensive history from day one. A rare opportunity to own a genuine piece of Swedish automotive history – enhanced with tasteful period extras like Marchal driving lights, a sports steering wheel, and a rally-inspired profile.

A car for the collector and enthusiast who accepts nothing but the best – now available at Bidders Highway!