This 1969 Saab Sonett is powered by a 1.7-liter V4 that has been fitted with a Rajay turbo and is paired with a column-shifted 4-speed manual transmission. The car was acquired by its current owner 13 years ago from the estate of Saab enthusiast Dale Holmes in Riverside, California. It has reportedly been used sparingly since, and has recently received new tires, fluids and filters, paint touch-ups, and more. This Sonett is offered by the selling dealer on behalf of its owner with records from the recent service and a Massachusetts title in the owner’s name. The fiberglass over steel Sonett was an evolution of work originated by independent engineer Björn Karlström. Areas of peeling and scratches on this example were recently corrected by the seller’s shop, and the balance of the finish was polished. The seller reports that visible monocoque sections are finished in correct “American Airlines” gray as seen on Sonetts through 1969. Early 15″ Turbo Inca wheels wear new Yokohama tires, and the seller’s shop checked and adjusted the brakes in preparation for the auction. Progressive springs with Koni shocks are fitted all around. Stock high-back Sonett seats are upholstered in black with gray inserts. Safety features include a roll bar and 3-point seat belts. The heater valve is said to be stuck in the closed position. A stock 3-spoke steering wheel fronts an instrument panel housing a VDO speedometer and tachometer as well as temperature and fuel gauges. A Saab-branded VDO gauge measuring turbo boost is located in place of the clock, and auxiliary gauges for oil pressure and voltage hang below the heater controls. Approximately 25k miles are shown, but the odometer is said to operate intermittently and actual mileage is unknown. The 1,700cc V4 is equipped with a Rajay turbocharger and Weber DCOE 45 carburetor. An adjustable wastegate is fitted and up to five psi of boost can be seen in a video below. The transmission is said to occasionally emit a slight whine in fourth gear, and the seller does not consider it an issue that warrants concern. The engine oil and filter are new. Additional undercarriage photos are available in the gallery. The video above shows an in-cabin drive with narration, and a second is viewable here.
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