Saab Sonett III V4
The Saab Sonett III was one of the automotive world's most charming oddities: a Swedish sports car from a company best known for quirky sedans derived from aircraft. The Sonett III was designed by Sergio Coggiola's studio in Italy, giving it a distinctive wedge-shaped profile that looked more exotic than its modest mechanicals might suggest. Under the fiberglass body sat a Ford Taunus V4 engine — the same unit used in the Saab 96 sedan — driving the front wheels through a four-speed gearbox with Saab's characteristic freewheeling device. With just 65 hp, the Sonett III was never fast in absolute terms, but its light weight (805 kg) and front-wheel-drive layout gave it surprisingly competent handling. The fiberglass body didn't rust, which was a significant advantage in Sweden's harsh climate. The interior was cozy rather than spacious, with a low seating position and good visibility through the large glass area. Only 8,368 Sonett IIIs were built before Saab discontinued it in 1974 to focus on sedan production. Today the Sonett III is sought after by Saab enthusiasts and sports car collectors as a unique piece of Swedish automotive history — there is literally no other car quite like it.
Fiberglass body doesn't rust — but the steel chassis and subframes do. Ford V4 engine reliable and parts available. Freewheeling gearbox unique to Saab. Check for US-spec emission equipment (detuned). Few specialists outside Saab clubs. Charming rather than fast.
8,368 Sonett III built (1970-74). Preceded by Sonett II (V4, 1966-70) and Sonett I (2-stroke, 1956). Ford V4 engine shared with Saab 96. Fiberglass body on steel chassis. US emissions killed it.